Technical Compliance

The NCC has provisions that relate to energy efficiency for all classes of buildings. It may also contain state and territory variations to these requirements. These energy efficiency provisions have a significant impact on window selection. Compliance is achieved through the prescriptive measures found in the NCC, or through performance based solutions using simulation tools such as AccuRate, FirstRate, BERS Pro and BASIX. In the reports from any of these compliance solutions, it will specify both the window performance for total window U-value (Uw) and total window Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGCw).

The National Construction Code

The National Construction Code (NCC) is produced and maintained by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) on behalf of the Australian Government and each state and territory Government. As part of the NCC, the Building Code of Australia (BCA) is a uniform set of technical provisions for the design and construction of buildings and other structures throughout Australia. It allows for variations in climate and geological or geographic conditions. Under Volume 2, Part 3.0, Section 3.6.0 of the NCC, performance requirements (P2.1 and P2.2.2) are satisfied if windows are designed and constructed in accordance with AS 2047. For glazed assemblies not covered by AS 2047, compliance to AS 1288 is required. Under Section B and Section F of Volume 1 of the NCC, performance requirements are satisfied if windows are designed and constructed in accordance with AS 2047. For glazed assemblies not covered by AS 2047, compliance to AS 1288 is required.

AS 2047 - Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings

AS 1288 - Glass in Buildings: Selection and Installation

Performance Requirements

A range of items should be supplied by window companies to verify performance claims and enable validation of compliance to Standards and Regulations. These items should be requested and retained.

They include:

  • Performance labels:

    Window assemblies in housing, except timber windows, must be labelled so the label can be seen when it is in situ. For timber windows and window assemblies for non-housing locations, either a label or a certificate is required. Please note windows must not be labelled on the glass. However, labelling on glass is permitted for fixed timber windows. The label or certificate must have as a minimum:
    • A way to identify the manufacturer.
    • The wind pressures for both Serviceability Limit State (SLS) and Ultimate Limit State (ULS).
    • Water penetration resistance.

  • Compliance Certificates:

    Where certificates are provided in addition to any labels, they must provide the same information. Certificates should also state compliance with the applicable Australia Standard(s). These should only be deemed acceptable if the company providing the certificate is a part of some type of accreditation scheme such as the AGWA independent third party NATA accreditation scheme.

  • Test Reports:

    These should be requested if there is any doubt about the validity of labels or certificates supplied.