The Australian Standard AS2047 is the primary performance standard for windows and external glazed doors used in Australian buildings. Officially titled “Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings,” it establishes the minimum requirements for the design, construction, materials, glazing, and performance of window and door systems to ensure they are suitable for Australia’s diverse climate conditions.

AS2047 is widely referenced by builders, architects, developers, manufacturers, and building certifiers when specifying aluminium windows and doors for residential and many commercial projects.

Why Is AS2047 Important?

Australia’s climate ranges from tropical cyclones in the north to strong winds along the coast and extreme temperatures inland. Windows and doors must be able to withstand these conditions while remaining safe, weather-resistant, and easy to operate.

AS2047 helps ensure that window and door systems provide reliable performance in areas such as:

• Wind resistance
• Water penetration resistance
• Air infiltration
• Structural integrity
• Operational performance
• Durability

Meeting AS2047 is an important step toward ensuring that a window or door system is suitable for Australian building applications.

What Products Does AS2047 Cover?

AS2047 applies to a wide range of external glazed products, including:

• Aluminium windows
• Sliding windows
• Awning windows
• Casement windows
• Fixed windows
• Double hung windows
• Louvre windows
• Sliding doors
• Hinged doors
• French doors
• Bifold doors
• Shopfront systems
• Window wall systems with one-piece framing elements

The standard does not generally apply to curtain wall systems using stacked or vertically spliced framing, which are typically assessed under other standards such as AS4284.

What Does AS2047 Test?

AS2047 evaluates the performance of the complete window or door system, rather than just individual components.

1. Structural Performance

The system must withstand the design wind pressures appropriate for its intended location without failure or excessive deformation.

This is particularly important for:

• Coastal homes
• High-wind areas
• High-rise buildings
• Cyclonic regions

2. Water Penetration Resistance

Windows and doors are tested to ensure they resist water ingress during wind-driven rain, helping protect the building envelope.

3. Air Infiltration

The standard limits the amount of unwanted air leakage through closed windows and doors, contributing to indoor comfort and energy performance.

4. Operating Force

Products should open, close, and lock smoothly without excessive force, ensuring safe and practical everyday use.

5. Durability

AS2047 also addresses the long-term performance of components such as:

• Hinges
• Rollers
• Locks
• Handles
• Sliding mechanisms

How Does AS2047 Classify Windows?

AS2047 classifies windows based on their ability to withstand wind loads.

For housing, these classifications are commonly aligned with the site’s wind classification determined under AS4055, such as:

• N1
• N2
• N3
• N4
• N5
• N6

For commercial and other building types, design wind pressures are determined using appropriate structural design standards.

AS2047 vs AS1288

These two Australian Standards work together but serve different purposes.

In simple terms:

• AS2047 evaluates how the entire window or door system performs.
• AS1288 determines how the glazing should be selected and installed.

Most Australian building projects require consideration of both standards.

AS2047 vs AS4284

Another common source of confusion is the difference between AS2047 and AS4284.

AS4284 is generally used for larger commercial façade systems, while AS2047 is the principal standard for residential windows and doors.

How Can You Verify Compliance?

Manufacturers typically demonstrate compliance through accredited laboratory testing of representative window and door systems.

Builders and developers should request documentation such as:

• Test reports
• Product performance data
• Compliance documentation
• Technical specifications

It’s also important to ensure the tested configuration matches the product being supplied for the project.

What Should Builders Look for in an AS2047 Supplier?

When selecting a window and door supplier, consider more than simply whether they state “AS2047 compliant.”

A professional supplier should also offer:

• Australian project experience
• Technical documentation
• Shop drawings
• Custom manufacturing capability
• Appropriate glazing recommendations
• Quality hardware
• Reliable project support

Common Misconceptions About AS2047

“AS2047 only applies to aluminium windows.”

No. It applies to many types of external glazed window and door systems, regardless of frame material.

“AS2047 guarantees energy efficiency.”

Not by itself. Energy performance also depends on factors such as glazing type, frame design, insulation, and compliance with the relevant building regulations.

“Every AS2047 window performs the same.”

No. Performance ratings vary depending on the window system, dimensions, glazing configuration, and intended application.

Conclusion

The Australian Standard AS2047 is the benchmark for the performance of windows and external glazed doors in Australia. It helps ensure products are capable of resisting wind, rain, and everyday operating demands while meeting the expectations of Australia’s building industry.

Whether you’re a homeowner building a custom home, a builder managing residential projects, or a developer sourcing aluminium windows and doors, understanding AS2047 will help you choose products that are appropriate for your project’s performance requirements and Australian conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AS2047?

AS2047 is the Australian Standard that specifies the performance requirements for windows and external glazed doors used in buildings throughout Australia.

Why is AS2047 important?

It helps ensure windows and doors can withstand Australian environmental conditions, including wind, rain, and regular operation.

Does AS2047 apply to aluminium windows?

Yes. Most aluminium windows and external glazed doors supplied for Australian projects are designed and tested against AS2047 performance requirements.

What is the difference between AS2047 and AS1288?

AS2047 covers the performance of complete window and door systems, while AS1288 focuses on the selection and installation of building glass.

Is AS2047 mandatory in Australia?

AS2047 is referenced by the Australian building framework for many residential window and external glazed door applications. Whether it applies to a specific project depends on the building type, applicable codes, and project requirements, so builders should verify the relevant compliance pathway for their project.