Ease of Use of Windows & Doors

Ease of use and operability are critical factors in the selection of windows and doors for any building project. In our penultimate edition of the Master Class, the Window Geeks look at what standards and regulations ensure product usability and how they may impact your own project.

Why is ease of use important?

Considerations of ease of use extend beyond convenience – they also contribute to the long-term performance and durability of building components. The intention of any reputable manufacturer is to ensure the longevity of their product. By selecting windows and doors that are easy to operate and maintain, building owners can minimize the need for future service calls and ensure occupant satisfaction.

Ease of operation

Operability encompasses various aspects, including the force required to open, close, and lock windows and doors, as well as the accessibility of operating hardware. Hardware should be designed to facilitate smooth operation with minimal effort, especially for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. This may involve positioning hardware within appropriate reach ranges and ensuring that it can be operated with one hand without excessive force or manipulation.

What Does the Building Code Say?

The BC Building Code (BCBC) does not specify any requirements around “ease of use” when it comes to selecting new windows and doors – though it does include regulations and standards that indirectly influence these aspects of products. It is up to the client and building design team to select an option they think is appropriate for the project.

Are there Other Regulations?

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) have developed the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS) to evaluate the performance of windows and doors. Although not directly enforced by the BCBC, adherence to NAFS standards is often considered best practice within the industry for ensuring product quality and performance.

How are Standards Enforced?

Enforcement of standards typically falls within the purview of manufacturers, suppliers, and building professionals rather than regulatory authorities. While the BCBC may not specify ease of use requirements, it encourages collaboration between stakeholders to select products suitable for the intended use and occupants of a building.

Any reputable window supplier should try to understand the occupants and what type of building the windows are intended for. From there, they can make a recommendation on what will work best for the project. Speaking with your window supplier during the design phase will help make this process smoother. Your window supplier should understand issues such as size and opening limitations, whereas a designer may not.

It’s very common to see building plans with windows that would not function properly if said plans were followed as they are. At Centra, we have seen plans with 4’ wide x 6’ high single casement windows – though we know that if we built them to that specification, they would have issues due to the weight of the oversized vent when the window is open to a 90-degree angle. The hardware cannot support the weight, and the vent will eventually start to sag and your window will not close or seal properly. This is why we have a 3’ limitation on single-casement windows.

Another good example is rental units and buildings. We generally recommend opting for sliding windows instead of casement or awning (hinged) windows. Renters may not worry about the home or take care of it the same way an owner would, and sliding windows have fewer moving parts. They are more user-friendly to operate and are therefore less likely to have future service or function problems if they are not used correctly. A casement or awning window has a much higher chance of requiring service or future adjustments if they are left open for long periods of time or used without proper care.

While the BCBC may not specifically address ease of use requirements, adherence to industry standards and collaboration with knowledgeable suppliers are essential for selecting windows and doors that meet the needs of occupants and promote efficient building performance. Prioritizing ease of operation not only enhances user experience but also contributes to the overall functionality and longevity of the built environment.

If you have an upcoming project, reach out to our Window Geeks for a free consultation. Join us next time for our final installment of our Master Class!