There is no doubt the window and door industry is feeling the effects of the Overseas Building Products legislation, introduced to bring structure and transparency to imported building products. The Bill’s intent was to support housing affordability while improving oversight, however its introduction coincided with a noticeable lift in imported windows, doors, glazing and components in this country and a significant lift in Australia. Whilst no one is looking for more competition in a tightening market, the Association has been accepting of imported product provided it is priced fairly and can clearly demonstrate compliance with the NZ Building Code and suitability for the wind zone it’s being used within.

Since 2023, MBIE’s BPIR scheme has required all manufacturers, suppliers and distributors of building products to publish clear information online, including scope, limitations and how the product contributes to Building Code compliance. For windows and doors, this involves classification in accordance with NZS/TS 4211, and the introduction of the BPS, includes the Australian window test standard, AS 2047, as a compliance pathway. Looking forward, MBIE have signalled broader recognition of international test standards in the BPS.

In preparation for this eventuality, the Association has prepared guidance on the classification of windows and doors when tested to comparable international standards. Initially we’ve looked at the most common classifications from Australia, Europe and America, and how products classified in these countries fit within our own wind zone categories. The comparisons have been made based on what’s referred to as ASW – air permeability, structural performance, water penetration. However, standards like NZS/TS 4211, and AS 2047, also include a functionality assessment, so the comparisons are limited to the tests which establish a performance classification in accordance with the Building Code. It should be noted that ASW comparisons are not inherently aligned across international test methodologies with some spraying less water in different patterns to achieve a water penetration rating. Nevertheless, the tables in our ‘Understanding International Window Performance Standards’ publication provide guidance on this basis, for a difficult and intricate subject.

For further information, click here to view the guidance document, or reach out to us at the Association.