High wind zone certificates

Many parts of the world face storms and, as part of this, areas are often categorized into zones defined by the wind speed they are exposed to.

A low wind zone could face wind speeds of 32 m/s, for example, whereas a very high or extra high wind zone may be exposed to storm winds of 50 or 55 m/s.

Among other factors, a building's wind zone or exposure to storms is generally determined by the site's topography, and whether it is situated in an urban, coastal, or forested area. The correct windows or doors are then of high importance for such locations.

High wind zone windows

Tested storm products

Buildings located in a high wind zone or coastal area often exposed to storms may need to meet certain local regulations or have particularly water-tight and strong windows or doors to ensure maximum safety.

At Neuffer we have supplied windows and doors to numerous projects across Canada and the US. We know the markets and stay up to date with current regulations. This is why our bestselling aluminum clad wood windows and French doors, Eco Plano and Idealu, have been rigorously tested and are certified for their excellent storm-proof performance.

Further wood and aluminum clad wood windows and doors are currently undergoing testing with high wind certificates available soon.

Our certificates

Our Eco Plano and Idealu windows and doors have been certified by All Facade Ltd with its IANZ accredited testing laboratory as well as by Germany's IFT Rosenheim, a renowned window testing and certification body.

Various rounds of tests, described below, were used for measurements and to confirm our windows' and patio doors' excellent performance in terms of the water tightness, impact resistance, and air infiltration.

Whether fixed or with tilt and turn opening sashes, different Neuffer certified windows and doors can therefore be used in storms and for very high or extra high wind zones. The performance results and certificates from All Facade Ltd can be viewed here:

Certified products in practice

Our high wind certified windows and doors have been used in many successful projects internationally. From initial consultation to customization, delivery, and after-care, our team offers a full service to provide quality, tested, and tailored products with beautiful design.

How is high wind zone or storm performance measured?

As mentioned above, there are certain properties covered by tests, such as those related to strength and water pressure, that are key to determining wind zone or storm-proof performance. During such trials, the window or French door is securely installed into a test booth in the operating facility and the following are carried out by All Facade Ltd, for example:

Air infiltration, wind, and water tests

To effectively balance pressure between inside and out during high winds and storms, just the right amount of air leakage or air infiltration needs to occur through windows and doors. A smoke test is therefore carried out and values are collected.

Furthermore, during storms much rain is blown onto windows at high pressure due to strong winds. Water test pressures and wind pressure limitations are therefore measured by determining the maximum pressure or wind speed where water still drains effectively from the door or window.

Defining operating force, deflection, and ultimate strength

To further ensure that all parts of windows and doors will perform under high pressure, a maximum operating force test is carried out, focused on fittings. This test also reveals the product’s ease of operation during normal weather conditions and its suitability for those with accessibility needs.

In terms of deflection and ultimate strength, window measurements are then carried out via rapid cycles of positive and negative pressure to determine impact resistance and safety.

Eco Plano balcony door installed in water test booth
Eco Plano balcony door installed in water test booth

The features behind the excellent performance

To perform safely and effectively during storms and high winds, our windows and doors are purpose-designed with quality features. From strong aluminum exterior cladding to impact-resistant laminated or tempered glazing, you can find out more by heading to our storm window and storm door pages or by getting in touch.

We will gladly answer any questions or provide a free quote. At Neuffer, we are tried and tested consultants as well as window and door experts who can guide you through the process from customization and dimensions to import and installation.

Get in touch with an expert:

Catalin Pintea

Catalin Pintea

Intl. Sales Manager
Call us at:
+49 711 860 60 200

Call-back service and individual expert advice

Whether for a new build or renovation, you will receive one-to-one expert advice from us so that you can configure your desired product exactly as you want it.

Use our call-back service now and book your desired appointment. We will call you at the agreed time and date on the telephone number you have given us.

Was this information helpful?
( 0 ratings , Ø 0 )