1.1 This specification establishes the performance requirements for exterior prime and replacement residential window assemblies, regardless of their method or materials of manufacture. These requirements are limited only to exterior prime window assemblies and does not include requirements for secondary windows or storm windows.

1.2 Although this specification establishes various levels of acceptance criteria for window assemblies, there is no intent to infer that a given window assembly or design meeting any of these levels is acceptable for use in a particular building. The loads and levels of performance to which the test specimen is subjected within this specification are physical quantities to be applied or measured during testing and do not include consideration of safety factors.

1.3 This is a developmental specification representing those parameters that are customarily used to measure the generic performance of windows. The requirements prescribed in this specification shall be supplemented by the writers of individual window specifications to take into account particular material of construction. It is the intent of Subcommittee E06.51 to expand these requirements in future revisions to cover additional parameters as applicable.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. Metric (SI) equivalents of inch-pound units may be approximate.

1.5 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 8, of this specification: This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.