AAMA Discussion Forum Held to Address Door Component Testing and Substitution

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) (Schaumburg, IL) Door Component Interchangeability Task Group hosted an all-day discussion forum on September 25 in San Antonio, TX, following the AAMA National Fall Conference (September 21-24). The purpose of this event was to further develop guidelines to be used for side-hinged entry door component substitution/interchangeability. The first of these discussion forums was held July 8 and sparked industry dialogue on this topic.

According to John Lewis, AAMA technical director, AAMA hosted the forum to discuss the information received to date intended for draft industry guidelines, which may be used for certification programs. In addition to members of the Task Group, representatives of the Association of Millwork Distributors (AMD) and Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) were in attendance.

The meeting began by reviewing draft text on various topics within the document developed since the last meeting of this group in July. These sections address seals, glass, frames, fasteners and downsizing. In addition, glass assemblies and door lite frames were discussed at length. An ad hoc task group was developed to address testing methodology.

The group also discussed in detail other new sections developed since the last meeting. The section of the guidelines pertaining to weatherstrip was reviewed, and the matter of in-house versus third-party testing of units was discussed at length. The group decided that the waiver of retest process used currently by AAMA and WDMA would be included in the draft guidelines. These requirements ensure that manufacturers are provided with a process (waiver of retest) to qualify components equivalent to, or superior to, those included in the door assembly as-tested.

The next item of focus was related to sills. It was noted that site-built doors are not covered by the 2008 version of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, NAFS — North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights. Doors with drop-in sills are currently exempt from the standard. Therefore, requirements were developed following typical certification program procedures and options.?

According to Lewis, ?As the forum organizer and leader, AAMA will forward the draft guideline to participants, and Chairman Mark Fortun (Endura Products, Inc.) encouraged all present to review and provide feedback prior to the next meeting.?

The task group will host another door forum tentatively scheduled for December to discuss astragals, as well as draft text of the sections of the document addressing frames and stile and rail door leafs.

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