Understanding Product Performance
The functional performance of window or door products is determined through a series of tests which include air / water infiltration and structural wind load testing. Product performance as specified by ANSI/AAMA/WDMA 101/I.S. 2-97 is based upon performance class and performance grade assigned as a result of these and other tests.

Performance class:
ANSI/AAMA/WDMA 101/I.S. 2-97 defines five performance classes: residential (R), light commercial (LC), commercial (C), heavy commercial (HC) and architectural (AW).

Performance grade:
The performance grade is the design pressure (in psf) for which a product has been rated. Product is tested to a structural test pressure equal to 1.5 times the design pressure.
Product performance is designated by a product code followed by the performance class and the performance grade, for example

C-C 30

Where the first C identifies the product type as a casement window that has been designated C (commercial class) 30 (grade). The 30 is the design pressure in psf.

The “gateway” design pressure, structural test pressure and water resistance test pressure (all in psf) for each performance class is:

“ Gateway” (minimum) test sizes are mandatory for each performance class and vary by product type.
Requirements also include testing for air infiltration. Air infiltration testing is performed at 1.57 or 6.24 psf depending upon the product type and performance class.

Other test requirements are also dependant upon product type and performance class. Among these are those for forced entry, hardware load and operating force.

Optional performance grade levels are available when higher structural and water performance is desired. These are shown in the chart on the next page.

For further information regarding product performance specifications, please refer to ANSI/AAMA/WDMA 101/I.S.2-97 “Voluntary Specifications for Aluminum, Vinyl (PVC) and Wood Windows and Glass Doors”.