1.1 This practice covers the testing of any fenestration products that are installed with the exterior surface exposed to weathering conditions. It is intended to measure the response of the fenestration product to temperature cycles with the temperature changes being induced by controlling the air temperature on the exterior (weather side) or by exposing the product to infrared radiation, or both. When tested using this practice, fenestration products are exposed to standard cycles of elevated and depressed ambient air and surface temperatures. Test methods are specified for evaluating changes in performance that may occur as a result of temperature cycling. With this practice, seasonal and diurnal temperature conditions are simulated in a controlled laboratory apparatus.

1.2 In this practice, two test methods, Test Method A and Test Method B, are described for exposing the exterior surface of fenestration products to the elevated portion of a standardized temperature cycle. The purpose for providing two test methods of exposure is to address two distinct needs of the fenestration industry.

1.3 In this practice, three temperature exposure levels are suggested for each method: Level 1 is a low temperature exposure, Level 2 is a moderate temperature exposure, and Level 3 is a high temperature exposure. The purpose of providing three levels of temperature exposure is to accommodate different grades of fenestration products based on their designs and their potential geographic installation locations. Other temperature levels may be selected by the specifier.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 Testing organizations using this practice shall have staff knowledgeable in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, instrumentation practice, and the specific requirements for the test methods specified. Testing personnel shall have a general knowledge of fenestration systems and components being tested.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 6.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.