Window compliance means business - advice from the Australian Window Association

The first thing people do when buying, building or renovating their home is seek advice from people they know. That's why client recommendations and endorsements drive new business for builders.

Completing a job on time, within budget and to client specifications goes a long way to achieving this enviable position. Of equal importance is the provision of accurate, helpful and reliable advice throughout all stages of construction.

The Australian Window Association (AWA) is the peak body representing the window and door industry in Australia. One of the association's core aims is to provide builders with information to help them and their clients choose the best possible windows and doors for a particular site.

Tracey Gramlick, AWA Technical Director says, "In 2006 the AWA will focus on promoting the importance of compliant window products and the dangers associated with non-compliance.

"Builders must provide minimum seven year guarantees to home owners. AWA members guarantee their products for that period. Unfortunately, any price savings offered by purchasing non compliant products become insignificant with the expensive exercise of removing and replacing windows.

"The Standards are AS2047 (Australian Standard for Windows in Buildings) and AS1288 (Australian Standard for Glass in Buildings). Published in January 2006, AS1288 supersedes the old 12 year standard for glass," Tracey commented, "so it's important for builders to be aware of the changes and what they mean to them."

Builder responsibilities
Windows that do not comply can become a major cost to the builder and home owner, so it's important to receive clear instructions from the client about the type of windows they need.

Builders should consider the guidance in AS2047:

• The purchaser should nominate the window ratings when ordering new assemblies for housing and other residential buildings.
• The purchaser should nominate the design wind pressures for the window assemblies when ordering the windows.
• The manufacturer should verify the window rating or design wind pressures.

Most consumers will not be aware of these obligations, so it's an opportunity for the builder to ‘value add' their service by educating them about the process.

Compliance certificate
Always ask to see a compliance certificate from the window manufacturer.

Issued by the AWA, the compliance certificate is awarded to members who take part in an annual accreditation program implemented by the independent National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA).

The compliance certificate is only awarded to AWA members, and confirms that they:

• Provide a 7 year warranty against faulty workmanship and materials.
• Have met the requirements of the annual AWA Compliance Audit conducted by a NATA accredited auditor.
• Are committed to the AWA Code of Conduct.

The AWA performance label
Products bearing the AWA label mean they have passed the NATA accredited annual audit. The process protects the builder and manufacturer from lawsuits, customer complaints and negative attention that comes with products that are not compliant.

Tracey Gramlick believes the recent changes to AS1288 mean that a compliance label on window products and a compliance certificate for all window manufacturers is crucial to ensure the consumer will never lose faith in the window, supplier or builder.

"Customers are getting more and more savvy every year. These days, it's normal for them to have the window products tested on several fronts to make sure they're getting what they paid for," Tracey said. "Showing them a compliance certificate from the manufacturer will mean you and your client can rest easy knowing the materials have been tested to meet Australian Standards."

WERS Label
With funding and support from the Australian Greenhouse Office, the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) was introduced in 2001.

The scheme enables windows to be rated and labelled for their energy impact on the entire house, in any climate of Australia. This scheme is managed by the AWA.

Builders can demonstrate they have the client's best interests at heart by recommending well-rated windows.

"Practically speaking, homes are primarily protected from heat and cold through insulation. Nevertheless, you can lose a lot of money on air conditioning if incorrect windows are installed. The more stars the higher the energy performance," says Tracey.

"Consumers always want to hear about ways to save on electricity and gas bills," Tracey says, "Supply them with compliant, WERS rated windows that come with a 7 year guarantee, and you'll have a very satisfied customer."