How do PAS24 windows and doors meet regulations?

PAS24 doors and windows are designed to resistant common forms of burglary attack and consist of security enhanced features and a reinforced construction. To be certified to the PAS24 security standard, a sample of the door or window is passed to an independent UKAS accredited test house for evaluation. 

PAS24 is a British security standard which meets the security requirements of Approved Document Q Building Regulations. These state that easily accessible doors and windows on new residential buildings and properties being converted to residential use must be proven to be secure.

How are PAS24 windows and doors tested?

Products are subjected to a series of tough physical tests lasting several minutes which assess the resistance to different forms of attack.  The tests are performed by qualified examiners and if the sample fails any of these tests it will not be certified and the manufacturer will need to change the design before submitting a new sample.

Mechanical Loading - This assesses whether the test sample can withstand a specified sequence of loading at different angles without creating an entry. This simulates an intruder attack using a nail bar. 

Manual Attack - Attempts are made to gain entry by generating an aperture in the infill panel or the fabric of the sample by cutting / prising or removing gaskets, beads, security devices and the infill medium from the exterior face of the glazing. 

Manipulation Tests - Attempts are made to gain entry by the hardware being operated, released or disengaged from the outside or by manipulating the glazing.

Impact Test - Soft and hard body impact tests are performed using a pendulum fall of material of different weights and angles to the test subject, simulating some of the most common forms of forced entry. The soft body impact simulates a body charge or an intruder kicking the product; the hard body impact simulates a sledge hammer attack. 

Hardware and cylinder test 
In the case of doors, attempts are made to gain entry through the lock, cylinder and associated security hardware with manual tools, including bending or twisting the lock mechanism.

What hardware is required on PAS24 Doors?

Espagnolette Locking - Multi-point espagnolette locking ensures that when the door is closed it is locked to the frame at multiple points making it much more secure.  The cylinder must also be proven to resist the attack standards set out in PAS24. 

Letter Plates - Letter plates where provided should:
a) have a maximum aperture of 260mm x 40mm and
b) be located or designed to hinder anyone attempting to insert their hand or remove keys with sticks, for example by incorporating a flap or other secure feature.

Door Chain- Door chains or limiters should be used in most cases, except when not appropriate, such as when a warden needs emergency access to residents in
sheltered housing. 

Door viewers - Unless there are other means to see callers, such as clear glass in the door or a side panel a door viewer should be specified on the main door used to enter a dwelling, usually the front door.

Glazing fitted to the window or door and to any side screens should be toughened P1A glass, in accordance with BSEN356:2000. In the case of doors, the glass should also be laminated to prevent intruders from easily breaking the glass to gain access to the lock on the inside.

What hardware is required on PAS24 Windows?

Sash Ironmongery: We recommend the use of Hook Fastener Sash Window Kits as they provide everything required in a cost effective and convenient pack, including fasteners, sash lifts and secure stops. Secure sash stops restrict the opening of the sash to further improve security and safety, whilst allowing ventilation.

Casement Ironmongery: Although it looks like a traditional casement fastener, an espagnolette fastener has additional locking points above and below the handle and at the top and bottom of the window, giving extra strength and security across the most vulnerable points of the window. These fasteners also have a discrete keyed locking point to lock the handle in place.

What are the additional benefits of timber PAS24 doors and windows?

• Natural timber doors tested to the PAS24 standard provide great looks in
  addition to enhanced security helping to boost property appeal. Bespoke design
  from Salisbury Joinery allows tailoring to match the character and architecture
  of the building as well as personal preferences.
• PAS24 doors and windows are usually tested for weather performance against
  British and European standards, which gives extra reassurance that they are
  durable and keep the home warm and dry all year round.
• Bespoke panel and moulding options on timber doors can make the same basic
  design look very traditional or fairly modern. Fine detailing is possible with timber available which is not available on standard UPVC or composite doors and windows.

Conclusion: Meeting Part Q regulations with style

Meeting Part Q regulations need not be a bind. The main starting point is to check if secure windows and doors are required on your property and to choose PAS24 certified products from a reliable manufacturer, such as Salisbury Joinery. We have a full range of PAS24 certified windows and external doors to suit any property. Our range is particularly suited to up-market properties where character and great looks are required as well as the security to give peace of mind. 

For more information download our latest PAS24 guide or contact us for product advice.