SDI AND BHMA ESTABLISH TEST CRITERIA FOR COMPONENTS OF SWINGING DOORS SUBJECT TO SEVERE WINDSTORMS AND HURRICANES

Component-Based Approach is Practical for
On-Site Assembly of Commercial Entry-Doors

NEW YORK, NY - The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) and the Steel Door Institute (SDI) announce the publication of a national severe windstorm resistance component standard, ANSI/SDI/BHMA A250.13 Testing and Rating of Severe Windstorm Resistant Components for Swinging Door Assemblies.

Presently, some local codes specify testing of complete assemblies, which limits the choices available to builders and consumers. The BHMA/SDI standard provides a component rating that relates directly to the component's ability to withstand the conditions that occur in a full assembly test. The benefits of the component standard include flexibility of choice for architects and consumers, and ease of verification for code authorities.

The problem facing builders and specifiers is how to construct entryways that can withstand sustained wind speeds or gusts in the range of 110 to 150 miles per hour and wind-borne projectiles associated with severe windstorms and hurricanes. Once the exterior envelope is breached, either by wind force or debris, the fluctuation of the internal and external pressure can cause catastrophic failure of the building structure. For this reason, it is vital to maintain the integrity of the entry system.

"Component standardization and independent product approval is a valid and practical way to test entry door systems," said Mike Tierney, Standards Coordinator for BHMA. "The component standards give builders and consumers the opportunity to customize entry systems and at the same time be assured that all components are tested and certified to withstand windstorm conditions. We are currently seeking formal recognition by the Florida Building Code, International Building Code and International Residential Code."

The rating procedure covers all components normally assembled to form an exterior swinging door system: frames, hardware mullions, thresholds, frame anchorages, hinges, locksets, latches and bolts, doors, glazing systems, sidelights, and transoms. The testing is designed to determine the ability of exterior doors to remain closed under severe windstorm conditions. Manufacturers can submit components covered by A250.13 to an approved independent laboratory, such as Intertek Testing Services or Underwriters Laboratory, Inc., to carry out the prescribed tests. Only those products that pass testing can claim BHMA/SDI certification. Upon approval, manufacturers can label products as certified and list their functions and performance characteristics. Certified products are listed in the respective test laboratory's certified product directory.

For more information, or to purchase copies of ANSI/SDI/BHMA A250.13 standard, please visit BHMA's web site at www.buildershardware.com. Purchased standards are available as printed documents or as electronic files (PDF) for immediate download. You can also order standards by phone by calling 800-699-9277.

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About BHMA

The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) is an industry leader in building safety and security. BHMA is the only organization accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop and maintain performance standards for locks, closers, exit devices and other builders hardware. The widely known ANSI/BHMA A156 series of standards describes and establishes the features and criteria for specific types of hardware products. In addition, BHMA sponsors third-party certification of hardware products, which is a requirement for a product to bear the "BHMA Certified" mark - insuring that the product meets the ANSI/BHMA standard. For more information on BHMA, please write to BHMA, 355 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1700, New York, NY, 10017 or visit the Web site at www.buildershardware.com.