When should AAMA Architectural “AW” Performance Class be specified?
Wausau recommends that AW Performance Class be specified for windows, sliding glass doors, and terrace doors used in all education, health care, institutional, governmental, office, and high-end condominium or hotel construction. AW life-cycle testing helps ensure durability, and superior-performance aluminum finishes ensure longevity. The industry “flagship” performance standard, The North American Fenestration Standard AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-08 (NAFS) differentiates Performance Classes as follows: R: Commonly used in one- and two-family dwellings. LC: Commonly used in low-rise and mid-rise multi-family dwellings and other buildings where larger sizes and higher loading requirements are expected. CW: Commonly used in low-rise and mid-rise buildings where larger sizes, higher loading requirements, limits on deflection, and heavy use are expected. AW: commonly used in high-rise and mid-rise buildings to meet increased loading requirements and limits on deflection, and in buildings
