Safety Codes Bulletin: Installation Windows and Doors

Purpose

Discussion

The requirement for the installation of doors and windows must conform to the requirements in NBC(2019AE) Section 9.7.6. This requires that windows and doors are installed to CAN/CSA-A440.4. When using a pre-assembled window, door or skylight the installation must be completed to the manufacture’s installation instructions without any modifications.

Each manufacturer will post the installation of their product on the window, door or skylight. Compliance monitoring will review the door and window installation to this document.

Should the manufacturer require the installation to A440.4 the window, skylight and door must be installed to this CSA Standard without modifications. (a quick guide has been attached but understand that the standard overrules and may update to a newer version when the code changes). You must use the version listed in the current code cycle. The standard can be purchased from CSA.ca.

Installation notes:

1. You cannot caulk the window, skylight, or door to the exterior plywood or OSB unless this is the method listed on the installation documents.
2. Drawings do not supersede the code requirement.
3. You will need to use the components that are listed in the instructions and use them with-in the constraints and limitations listed on each component such as temperature and type of tools used.
4. Should you wish to install the window, skylight, or door to other than the manufactures installation instructions you will need a variance. A variance will require you to provide an alternative solution, in writing with all supporting documentation and a letter from the manufacture that states you will not void any warranties using the requested installation method.
5. Window membrane and flashings must be installed as per the manufacture and incorporate into the window installation as per the manufactures window installation instructions or A-440 when there is a conflict CAN/CSA-A440.4 will overrule.

Reference

National Building Code 2019 (Alberta Edition), Part 9 Section 9.7.6.1 Installation of Windows, Doors and Skylights

1. The installation of windows, doors and skylights shall conform to CAN/CSA-A440.4, “Window, Door, and Skylight Installation,” except that
   1. a) shims used to support windows, doors and skylights are permitted to be made of treated plywood, and
   2. b) protection from precipitation for walls incorporating windows or doors and for roofs incorporating skylights, and the interfaces of these walls with windows or doors and of roofs with skylights, shall conform to Section 9.27.
2. The installation of manufactured and pre-assembled windows, doors and skylights and the field assembly of manufactured window and door combination units shall conform to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Windows, doors, and skylights shall be sealed to air barriers and vapour barriers.

Questions can be directed to Safety Codes Services.