Windows are architectural elements designed to allow light, air, and views into a building while providing protection and insulation. Typically composed of a frame, glazing (glass panes), and various hardware, windows come in various types such as fixed, sliding, casement, and double-hung. Frames can be made from materials like wood, aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass, each offering different levels of durability, thermal efficiency, and aesthetics.
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Description of Product
Windows: legislation provides safety, performance, and environmental impact requirements across the EU
The tariff classification of windows depends on the material they’re made from. The specific classification might vary depending on factors like: whether the window is presented as a complete unit or as separate parts; any special features or materials used; the primary material of the window frame.
Below are the main HS classifications.
1. Wooden windows
- HS Code: 3923
- Description: Articles for the conveyance or packing of goods, of plastics; stoppers, lids, caps and other closures, of plastics
2. Plastic windows
- HS Code: 3925.20
- Description: Doors, windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, of plastics
3. Metal windows:
Aluminium:
- HS Code: 7610.10
- Description: Doors, windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, of aluminium
Iron or steel:
- HS Code: 7308.30
- Description: Doors, windows and their frames and thresholds for doors, of iron or steel
4. Glass elements for windows:
- HS Code: 7007
- Description: Safety glass, consisting of toughened (tempered) or laminated glass
General requirements
General Product Safety Requirements
EU legislation
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) – Regulation (EU) 2023/988 applies to all consumer products.
Short summary
The GPSR can apply to windows in specific situations, even though they are mainly regulated under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). The GPSR applies when windows are sold directly to consumers for personal use, address safety aspects not covered by the CPR, or complement the CPR by filling gaps in consumer safety.
Under the GPSR, windows must not pose any risks or only minimal risks associated with their intended use. These risks may include:
- Injury from broken glass
- Hazards from opening/closing mechanisms
- Risks to children (e.g., fall prevention)
- Ongoing monitoring of product safety
- Providing warnings to consumers
- Initiating product recalls if needed
Domestic legislation
The General Product Safety Law, Law 41(I)/2004
The new Regulation (EU) 2023/988 came into full effect on 13th December 2024.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Consumer Protection Service
Important information
Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products (RAPEX) – an established instrument throughout Europe to rapidly and effectively protect consumers from consumer products that may pose a health risk.
As such, sbe reported.
There is also post-market obligations: The GPSR imposes obligations on producers and distributors even after the product is placed on the market, such as:
Monitoring product safety
Providing warnings to consumers
Recalling products if necessary.
The Construction Products Regulation
EU legislation
Short summary
Windows must comply with this Regulation, which sets harmonized rules for marketing construction products in the EU
This applies to windows, as it sets specific requirements for performance, safety, and environmental considerations.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Important information
Remarks: Windows must meet the following essential requirements (also known as basic requirements for construction works) as applicable: a) Mechanical resistance and stability b) Safety in case of fire c) Hygiene, health and the environment d) Safety and accessibility in use e) Protection against noise f) Energy economy and heat retention g) Sustainable use of natural resources
CE Marking
EU legislation
Short summary
Required for windows considered construction products
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Important information
Construction works, both as a whole and in their individual components, must be suitable for their intended use, prioritizing the health and safety of those involved throughout the entire life cycle of the structure.
The law, referred to as the “Framework Law,” outlines the fundamental principles of CE marking, market surveillance, and the approval process for Notified Bodies. It also defines the powers of competent authorities and the penalties for violations of the legislation.
Article 5 of L.130(I)/2013 specifies that the CE marking declaration can be in English and/or Greek.
Other useful material
Declaration of Performance (DoP)
EU legislation
Construction Products Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
Required for windows under the Construction Products Regulation
Domestic legislation
See “CE Marking”
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Other useful material
See “CE Marking”
Waste Framework Directive
EU legislation
The Waste Framework Directive 2008/98/EC encourages sustainable practices for managing waste, including the recycling and disposal of construction products.
Short summary
Windows should be designed with consideration for their end-of-life management, encouraging manufacturers to use recyclable materials and ensuring that the units can be safely disposed of or recycled after use.
Domestic legislation
The Waste Law of 2011 (L.185(I)/2011)
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
And Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Department of Environment
Important information
The Department of Environment (DoE) is the relevant competent authority when it comes to any waste from Excavation, Construction and Demolition (W.E.C.D).
Other useful material
Thermal Performance of Windows, Doors, and Shutters
Short summary
EN 10077 focuses on calculating the thermal transmittance (U-value) of windows, doors, and shutters. It specifies how to evaluate the thermal efficiency of these products, ensuring that they meet energy-saving criteria and contribute to the overall energy performance of the building.
EN 12567 focuses on test method that help assess the thermal transmittance (U-value) of windows and doors in a real-world scenario, simulating conditions they will face once installed. It ensures that the thermal performance of windows is accurately measured, contributing to energy efficiency and minimizing heat loss.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Transport and storage
EU legislation
Construction Products Regulation (CPR) – Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
The CPR does not specifically regulate the transport and storage of windows, but it implies that products must be packaged and handled in a way that preserves their safety and performance during transportation. The windows must be delivered in a condition that ensures their functionality when installed.
May require compliance with ADR regulations
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
And Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works
Important information
While EU regulations set out broad standards, RoC may have additional or more specific national transport regulations for windows, particularly with respect to their safe delivery and installation.
The ADR comprises regulations for road transport regarding packaging, load securing, classification and labelling of dangerous goods. All EU members are also signatories to the ADR
Quality Management Systems
EU legislation
While not specific to windows, ISO :2015 provides guidelines for implementing a quality management system that covers all processes, including storage, handling, and transport.
Short summary
Storage Conditions: ISO 9001 encourages the establishment of clear procedures for the safe storage of windows, including proper handling, segregation, and conditions that prevent damage or degradation. For companies producing or distributing windows, adherence to ISO 9001 standards can help ensure that their transport and storage practices meet high-quality standards and that traceability is maintained
Important information
The adoption of a quality management system is a strategic decision for an organization that can help to improve its overall performance and provide a sound basis for sustainable development initiatives.
The potential benefits to an organization of implementing a quality management system based on this International Standard are:
- the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements;
- facilitating opportunities to enhance customer satisfaction;
- addressing risks and opportunities associated with its context and objectives;
the ability to demonstrate conformity to specified quality management system requirements.
Other useful material
Thermal performance
EU legislation
Compliance with Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) 2010/31/EU
Short summary
This Directive promotes the improvement of the energy performance of buildings within the EU, taking into account outdoor climatic and local conditions, as well as indoor climate requirements and cost-effectiveness.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Town Planning and Housing Sector
Important information
Specific performance requirements have been set by ministerial decree, which have subsequently been tightened in 2009, 2013, and 2016.
. U-value (thermal transmittance) must meet or exceed local building code requirements
Biocidal Products
EU legislation
Short summary
Required for windows containing biocidal substances
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Department of Agriculture
Important information
Any chemical treatments must comply with the Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) No 528/2012. Articles 7, 8 and 9 refer to the placing on the market and use of a biocidal product, the submission and conditions for granting a permit and the issuance of a permit.
Biocidal products are necessary for the control of organisms that are harmful to human or animal health and for the control of organisms that cause damage to natural or manufactured materials
Doors, Windows, Shutters, and Building Facades – Fire Resistance and Smoke Control
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifically covers fire-resistant windows and doors. It specifies the fire resistance and smoke control properties that certain types of windows must meet, especially if used in high-risk areas or public buildings.
Windows and Doors - Durability and Performance
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard covers the long-term performance of windows and doors, specifying how these products should maintain their functional characteristics over time, including resistance to weathering and wear.
Acoustic performance
EU legislation
Short summary
It specifies a laboratory method for measuring the airborne sound insulation of building products, such as walls, floors, doors, windows, shutters, façade elements, façades, glazing, small technical elements, for instance transfer air devices, airing panels (ventilation panels), outdoor air intakes, electrical raceways, transit sealing systems and combinations
Air permeability
EU legislation
Tested according to EN 1026: “Windows and doors – Air permeability – Test method” & Classified according to EN 12207: “Windows and doors – Air permeability – Classification.”
Short summary
EN 1026 defines the test method to be used to determine the air permeability of completely assembled windows and doorsets of any material, when submitted to positive or negative test pressures. This test method is designed to take account of conditions in use, when the window or doorset is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification and the requirements of relevant European Standards and codes of practice.
Important information
The EN 1026 European Standard does not apply to the joints between the window or doorset frame and the building construction.
Water tightness
EU legislation
Tested according to EN 1027 “Windows and doors – Water tightness – Test method” and classified according to EN 12208 “Windows and doors – Water tightness – Classification”
Short summary
EN 1027 defines the test method to be used to determine the watertightness of completely assembled windows and doorsets of any materials. This test method is designed to take account of conditions in use, when the window or doorset is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification and the requirements of relevant European Standards and codes of practice.
Important information
The EN 1027 European Standard does not apply to the joints between the window or door frame and the building construction.
Wind resistance
EU legislation
Tested according to EN 12211 “Windows and doors – Resistance to wind load – Test method” and classified according to EN 12210 “Windows and doors – Resistance to wind load – Classification”.
Sealants for Windows and Doors - Performance Requirements
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard applies to sealants used in windows and doors, ensuring their effectiveness in providing airtightness, water resistance, and durability in both domestic and commercial buildings.
Resistance to racking
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies the determination of resistance to racking of an open casement or sash expressed as loads and the resulting maximum and residual deformations.
This standard applies to the opening modes specified in specific Figures and included in EN 12519.
Windows and Pedestrian Doors. Vocabulary
EU legislation
Short summary
This is a comprehensive standard that provides a detailed and precise vocabulary for windows and pedestrian doors. This standard is essential for professionals in the construction, architecture, and manufacturing industries who require a clear and consistent terminology to ensure effective communication and understanding.
Windows and doors — Resistance to repeated opening and closing
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard specifies the method to be used to determine the mechanical durability of doorsets and the opening parts of windows after a defined number of operating cycles.
It applies, whatever their construction materials and operating systems, to any window or any door in the form of complete assemblies in normal operating conditions. The parts concerned in the testing are the frame, the opening elements (including any secondary elements) and all essential hardware, including operating devices. It does not include any additional fasteners such as pegstays or cabin hooks, nor any independently installed restrictor.
Windows and side scuttles for fire-resistant constructions -Ships and marine technology
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard provides requirements for windows and side scuttles for fire-resistant constructions for installation in various classes divisions. It lays down the requirements for the construction of glass panes and frames, as well as the testing and marking of such windows and side scuttles.
Technical documentation
EU legislation
Construction Products Regulation (CPR) – Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
Detailed technical data sheets required.
Manufacturers must prepare and maintain technical documentation that includes:
- Product description.
- Design and manufacturing processes.
- Performance characteristics (e.g., thermal performance, acoustic properties, fire resistance).
- Testing methods used (e.g., EN 14351-1).
- Declaration of Performance (DoP): The DoP is a mandatory document that declares the performance of the product, including its compliance with relevant European standards and its suitability for use.
Including assembly instructions, care guidelines, and material specifications.
Domestic legislation
Domestic competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Short summary
Basic requirements do not refer to construction products but to construction works in which these products are to be incorporated
Short summary
Documentation requirements
EU legislation
EN 14351 is the key European standard for windows and external pedestrian doors.
Short summary
Manufacturers must provide technical documentation that proves compliance with performance characteristics (air permeability, water tightness, wind resistance, thermal insulation (U-values), sound insulation (e.g., reduction of noise), mechanical strength (e.g., resistance to impact) including:
- Test reports showing results for the key characteristics mentioned above.
- Information about the materials used (e.g., glazing, frame materials).
Assembly instructions for windows and their components (e.g., frames, sashes).
Fire Safety
EU legislation
If claimed, fire resistance properties must be tested according to EN 1634-1 and classified according to EN 13501-2.
See also Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Domestic legislation
Domestic competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
EcoDesign Directive
EU legislation
The EcoDesign Directive 2009/125/EC sets requirements for the environmental performance of energy-related products, including windows.
Short summary
The directive focuses on improving the environmental impact of windows across their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal.
- Environmental considerations: The directive encourages manufacturers to reduce the environmental impact of windows, particularly by improving their energy efficiency, recyclability, and durability.
Resource efficiency: The use of materials with lower environmental footprints is promoted, and energy-efficient windows are encouraged as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Domestic legislation
Domestic competent authorities
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Energy Service
Important Information
Art.7 of the L.17(I)/2011) stating information on marking and declaration of conformity.
Dangerous substances
EU legislation
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals)
Short summary
Window manufacturers must assess and disclose the chemical substances used in their products.
If a dangerous substance is included in the product, they must comply with REACH’s notification and authorization requirements. If the concentration of any Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) is above 0.1%, the substance must be communicated to customers, including relevant information for safe use.
Domestic legislation
Domestic competent authorities
Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance, Department of Labour Inspection
Important Information
Windows must not release any dangerous substances above the permitted maximum levels in indoor air, soil, or water.
Classification, labelling, and packaging (CLP) of substances and mixtures
EU legislation
Short summary
The CLP Regulation ensures that hazardous substances, including those in windows, are classified, labeled, and packaged in accordance with their hazards. This regulation is closely linked to REACH, and it requires that substances in construction products be assessed for their potential to cause harm to health or the environment.
- Hazard Labeling: Any hazardous chemicals used in windows must be properly labeled with the appropriate hazard symbols and risk phrases to inform users of the dangers associated with their use.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Manufacturers must provide Safety Data Sheets for dangerous substances contained in their products, including chemicals used in the production of windows.
Domestic legislation
The Chemical Substances Law of 2020 (L. 119(I)/2020)
Regulatory Administrative Act 381/2020
The Regulatory Administrative Act lays down fines that may be imposed.
Domestic competent authorities
Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance, Department of Labour Inspection
Restriction of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment
EU legislation
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS)
Short summary
Although primarily focused on electrical and electronic equipment, the RoHS Directive also has implications for windows that contain electrical components, such as electrically operated shutters, window openings, or integrated heating systems. RoHS restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products.
Restricted Substances: RoHS limits the presence of dangerous substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and certain flame retardants in electrical components. If windows incorporate electrical elements, the manufacturer must ensure that these components comply with RoHS requirements.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and environmental impact
EU legislation
Directive 2004/42/EC on VOCs in Paints and Varnishes.
EN Standards for VOC Emissions: EN 14351-1, include requirements related to the emission of VOCs from windows and other construction products.
Short summary
Windows often contain coatings, paints, adhesives, and sealants that may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These substances can contribute to indoor air pollution and have adverse health effects, such as respiratory issues and skin irritation. EU regulations address VOCs in building products, including windows.
The directive sets limits on the amount of VOCs that can be emitted from paints and varnishes, which are often applied to windows. Window manufacturers must ensure that the coatings used in their products comply with these limits.
Manufacturers may need to provide data on the VOC emissions of their products as part of the CE marking and technical documentation process.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, Department of Labour Inspection
Important information
Art.6 of L.35(I)/2006 states that the products shall bear the important information in one of the official languages of the RoC.
The Annexes of L.35(I)/2006 provide details on the limits of the VOCs in each product.
Installation Instructions
EU legislation
Construction Products Regulation (CPR) – Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
Detailed installation instructions must be provided to ensure that the product is installed correctly, and the performance characteristics are maintained
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Other useful material
Manufacturers provide instructions that must cover details on the correct method of installation, any required components (such as seals, brackets, and fasteners), and the required procedures to ensure safety and compliance with performance standards.
Product liability
EU legislation
The Product Liability Directive 85/374/EEC ensures that manufacturers and suppliers are held accountable for any harm caused by their products.
Short summary
While the directive mainly addresses consumer safety, it indirectly impacts window installation instructions as part of the responsibility to ensure safe use and installation.
Manufacturers must ensure that their installation instructions clearly outline any necessary precautions to avoid harm, both during installation and once the window is in use. Any defects or unsafe installation methods that lead to damage or injury could make the manufacturer liable under the Product Liability Directive.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry
Packaging and Waste
EU legislation
Compliance with Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive 94/62/EC
Short summary
The Directive restricts the presence of certain heavy metals in packaging (Hg, Pb, Cr6+, Cd) with the goal of protecting the environment from hazardous substances and materials.
Domestic legislation
Packaging and Packaging Waste Law (L.32(I)/2002, 133(I)/2003) 159(I)/2005, 48(I)/2006, 58(I)/2012, 59(I)/2012 and 125(I)/2012)
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment
Important information
Regular inspections and audits of the operation of individual and collective systems are carried out in order to properly implement permit conditions.
Traceability
EU legislation
Construction Products Regulation (CPR) – Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
A system ensuring the traceability of the windows back to their manufacturer
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Other useful material
One of the key aspects of CPR is traceability, which ensures that all construction products can be traced back to their source and that they meet the relevant performance standards.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Digital Traceability
EU legislation
While not part of a specific legal framework, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is increasingly being used in the construction industry to improve traceability and project management.
Short summary
BIM systems allow for the tracking of products, including windows, throughout the lifecycle of a building project.
Digital Records: BIM provides a digital platform for recording all data related to the construction process, including the specification, installation, and maintenance of windows. This system offers enhanced traceability for construction products and ensures that all stages of the product’s life cycle are documented and available for future reference.
Proof of origin
EU legislation
Short summary
Provide proof of origin
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Finance – Customs & Excise Department
Important information
The accompanying document shall be made out on forms corresponding to the specimen given in Annex I.
Design Protection
EU legislation
EU Design Regulation – Regulation (EC) No 6/2002
Short summary
Design protection allows manufacturers to protect the aesthetic appearance of their windows, including their shape, color, texture, and surface details.
- EU Registered Designs: The EU Design Regulation provides a system for registering designs that are new and have individual character. This includes the ornamental aspects of windows and window frames.
Scope of Protection: This protection applies to the visual aspects of windows, such as the design of the window frame, glazing arrangements, or any ornamental features. Once registered, it prevents others from using the same or similar designs without permission within the EU.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Department of the Registrar of Companies and Intellectual Property
Trademarks
EU legislation
EU Trade Mark Regulation – Regulation (EU) 2017/1001
Short summary
Trademarks protect the branding and commercial identity of window products, including logos, names, and any distinctive marks associated with a window manufacturer or product.
- EU Trademark (EUTM): A registered trademark within the EU can protect the name or logo used by window manufacturers. For example, a window company can trademark its brand name or logo, distinguishing its products from competitors in the marketplace.
Protection Scope: Trademarks can protect the use of names, logos, and any other unique symbols or identifiers that consumers associate with specific window products or manufacturers.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Department of the Registrar of Companies and Intellectual Property
Copyright
EU legislation
EU Copyright Directive – Directive 2001/29/EC
Short summary
Copyright provides protection to original works of authorship, such as architectural designs, drawings, or technical manuals related to windows.
Architectural Designs: If a window design or arrangement is part of a larger architectural work (e.g., the design of a building that includes custom windows), it may be protected by copyright as part of the architectural design.
Technical Documentation: Technical drawings, plans, and manuals for windows may also be eligible for copyright protection. This ensures that only the author or a licensed user has the right to reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works based on the design.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Department of the Registrar of Companies and Intellectual Property
Important information
– The link to the L.59(I)/1976 directs the user to all amendment laws as well.
Trade secrets
EU legislation
EU Trade Secrets Directive – Directive (EU) 2016/943
Short summary
Trade secrets are valuable intellectual property rights that protect confidential business information, such as manufacturing processes, formulas, or technical know-how related to window production.
If a window manufacturer has proprietary techniques for glazing, energy efficiency, or soundproofing, these processes can be protected as trade secrets, provided that they are kept confidential and are not generally known or easily accessible.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Department of the Registrar of Companies and Intellectual Property
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
Short summary
CBAM is a key component of the EU’s climate policy, impacting sectors like window manufacturing, especially those that use energy-intensive materials like aluminium or glass. The proper documentation and verification of emissions will be required, and exporters will need to buy CBAM certificates for the carbon emissions related to their production processes.
As the EU transitions to full CBAM implementation by 2026, the mechanism will incentivize sustainable production practices and help meet the EU’s climate goals.
Domestic legislation
*The Regulation shall apply on a transitional basis from 1 October 2023 to 31 December 2025. Full effect will come into force 1st January 2026.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Department of Environment
Important information
CBAM stands for Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
Other useful material
Specific requirements for Insulated Glass Units (IGU)
Insulating glass units (IGU)
EU legislation
EN 1279 deals with insulating glass units, specifying performance characteristics for multi-pane windows, particularly regarding thermal performance and sound insulation.
Short summary
This series of standards ensures that IGUs meet the necessary quality, durability, and energy performance requirements. The key parts of this standard include:
- EN 1279-1: General rules for the production and testing of IGUs: This part provides the overall rules for IGUs, including the structure, composition, and performance parameters.
- EN 1279-2: Durability of IGUs: This standard specifies the testing methods for the durability of insulating glass, including resistance to humidity, temperature variations, and mechanical stresses.
- EN 1279-3: Evaluation of the resistance of IGUs to the propagation of internal condensation: This part evaluates the ability of IGUs to prevent internal condensation, which can affect the performance and aesthetics of windows.
- EN 1279-4: Calculation of the thermal performance of insulating glass: This section deals with the calculation methods for determining the thermal insulation properties of IGUs. It includes the evaluation of thermal transmittance (U-value), which measures the heat loss through the unit.
EN 1279-5: Aesthetic quality of insulating glass: This standard focuses on the appearance of the glass, such as distortions, bubbles, and other defects that could compromise the visual quality of IGUs.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Fire Safety Standards for IGU
EU legislation
Short summary
Fire resistance: IGUs used in fire-resistant applications must meet fire resistance criteria and be tested according to specific fire safety standards to ensure they do not contribute to the spread of fire.
Domestic Competent authorities
Fire resistance: IGUs used in fire-resistant applications must meet fire resistance criteria and be tested according to specific fire safety standards to ensure they do not contribute to the spread of fire.
Specific requirements for wooden windows
Harmonized standard for windows and external pedestrian door sets.
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard ensures that wooden windows meet essential safety, environmental, and performance standards for use in the EU. It covers criteria such as:
- Mechanical strength and stability
- Durability, including resistance to weathering and other external factors
- Energy efficiency, including thermal insulation
- Sound insulation
Safety (e.g., impact resistance)
Paints and Varnishes for Exterior Wooden Windows
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard is applicable to the finish and coatings applied to wooden windows. It specifies the requirements for durability, weathering resistance, and color fastness of paints and varnishes used on exterior wooden surfaces.
Key aspects:
- Durability: Ensures that the finish will withstand outdoor conditions such as UV exposure and weather changes.
Surface Preparation: Ensures proper surface preparation before coating, which helps improve the finish’s adherence and longevity.
External Blinds and Shutters
EU legislation
Short summary
If the wooden windows include external blinds or shutters, this standard applies to their performance, durability, and safety.
Control on illegal timber and timber products
EU legislation
Regulation (EC) 995/2010 – the EU Wood Regulation
Sustainable timber sourcing.
Short summary
The placing on the EU market of illegally harvested timber and their derived products is prohibited.
Domestic legislation
The Timber Trade Control Law of 2013 (L.139(I)/2013)
Law 125 (I) 2010 on the Application of the FLEGT licensing scheme for timber imports into the EU.”
Forest Law of 2012 (Law 25 (I) of 2012)
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Department of Forestry
Important information
Wooden windows might need to comply with this Regulation.
Licensing for the timber trade see art.11 of L.139(I)/2013.
Timber and timber products will not have to comply with the requirements of this Regulation, since they will be considered to have been legally harvested, when presenting: a CITES certificate for certain species of timber; a FLEGT license
Specific requirements for PVC (plastic) windows
PVC-U Profiles for Windows and Doors
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard deals specifically with the profiles made from unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U), which is a common material used for plastic windows and doors.
Key aspects:
- Material Specifications: It provides specifications for the material quality and the requirements for PVC-U profiles used in window and door frames.
- Strength and Durability: The standard defines the mechanical properties of the profiles, ensuring that they can withstand various environmental conditions without degrading.
Recycling and Environmental Considerations: The standard encourages the recycling of PVC-U materials and specifies the allowable levels of contaminants in the material.
Ensure no restricted phthalates or other harmful substances are used
EU legislation
Short summary
Manufacturers of plastic windows must ensure that any chemicals involved in production are fully compliant with REACH regulations. They must communicate the presence of hazardous chemicals, if any, and provide safety data sheets to downstream users such as installers and consumers.
End-of-life considerations: Compliance with EU's Circular Economy Action Plan
EU legislation
REACH restriction addressing intentionally added microplastics
Proposal for a Regulation on preventing pellet losses to reduce microplastics pollution
Brochure on EU action against microplastic pollution
Short summary
Aligning with the Circular Economy Action Plan offers plastic window manufacturers the opportunity to contribute to sustainability goals, reduce environmental impact, and enhance their competitive edge in a market increasingly focused on eco-friendly products and practices.
Specific requirements for metal windows
Specifies requirements for structural applications of aluminium
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard specifies the requirements for the design, performance, and installation of aluminum windows. It provides guidelines to ensure that aluminum windows meet the necessary quality, safety, and performance criteria in terms of functionality and durability.
Anodizing or coating
EU legislation
If applicable, must meet standards EN ISO 7599 or EN 12206-1 respectively
Short summary
EN ISO 7599 provides method for specifying decorative and protective anodic oxidation coatings on aluminium.
EN 12206-1 provides requirements for coating of aluminium and aluminium alloys for architectural purposes.
Thermal break materials
Short summary
Must comply with relevant chemical safety regulations.
Thermal break materials in metal windows are used to improve energy efficiency by preventing the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of a building. These materials are typically placed between the metal frame and the glazing to reduce thermal conductivity, which helps to improve insulation and reduce energy consumption.
Execution of Steel Structures and Aluminium Structures
EU legislation
EN 1090-1
Short summary
For steel windows, compliance with EN 1090 ensures that the manufacturing process meets the required structural integrity standards for steel-based construction products. This standard covers welding, material quality, and manufacturing methods.
Specific requirements for glass element for windows
Thermally toughened glass
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard addresses the glass quality, testing methods, and requirements for toughened glass, ensuring that it provides adequate strength and safety.
Quality control procedures are required to ensure that every piece of toughened glass produced meets the EN 12150-2 standard.
EN 12150-2 stipulates that all tempered glass products should be properly marked to indicate compliance with the standard. This typically includes a logo or a label denoting that the glass has been toughened and complies with the relevant European regulations.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Directorate of Technical Services, Construction Product Sector
Safety features
EU legislation
For safety glazing, compliance with EN 12600 “Glass in building – Pendulum test – Impact test method and classification for flat glass”.
Short summary
EN 12600 provides impact test method and classification for flat glass
Laminated Glass for Use in Buildings
EU legislation
Short summary
This European standard outlines the specific performance requirements for laminated glass: mechanical strength, impact resistance, durability and UV protection.
Glass Products and Durability Requirements
EU legislation
EN 12543 (Parts 1-6)
Short summary
Laminated glass must be durable and able to withstand long-term exposure to environmental factors such as temperature variations, UV radiation, moisture, and chemical influences. The interlayer in laminated glass should maintain adhesion to the glass surfaces over time to prevent delamination.
Heat-Strengthened and Tempered Safety Glass
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard covers the durability of safety glass, including heat-strengthened and tempered glass. The key durability requirements include: impact resistance, resistance to thermal shock and weathering.
Laminated Glass - Durability of Bonding Interlayer
EU legislation
Short summary
This document specifies the composition, tolerances and characteristics, i.e. mechanical, acoustic, optical, and thermal properties, of folio interlayers for the manufacturing of laminated glass and laminated safety glass for use in buildings and construction works and it defines their general quality criteria.
Glass in Building - Glazing and Window Systems
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard deals with the performance and durability of glazing systems, including glass used in windows. It includes requirements for thermal insulation, sound insulation, and resistance to external factors, ensuring that the glazing maintains its performance characteristics over time.
Coated glass
EU legislation
Short summary
This Standard specifies requirements and a test method related to resistance to solar radiation for coated glass for use in buildings.
This test is aimed at evaluating if the exposure to solar radiation over an extended period of time produces any appreciable change in light transmittance and solar transmittance of the coated glass as well as a reduction of the infrared reflectance in the case of low emissivity coatings.
Determination of bending strength of glass
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies a method for determining the comparative bending stength of glass for use in buildings, excluding the effects of the edges.