AAMA 703-11, “Voluntary Specifications for Non-Integral Door Bottom Weatherseals,” has been published by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). This document establishes minimum performance requirements for sweep type non-integral door bottom weatherseals.

“The standard for AAMA 703-11 is based on the in-service requirements of door products to maintain acceptable levels of air leakage resistance, water penetration resistance and operating force throughout its design life. Accordingly, door products are manufactured from various framing materials, such as aluminum, steel, wood, vinyl and fiberglass, which interact with sealing systems in two ways,” according to Mark Fortun (Endura Products), chair of the Door Bottom Weatherseals Task Group.

Fortun explains that the first interaction is attributed to “user stresses” that are induced through repeated opening and closing of door panels throughout the design life of the product. Secondly, door bottom weatherseals and framing materials experience environmental weathering elements, such as heat, UV and moisture. Together, these elements affect door framing materials and over time, induce mechanical, chemical and thermal stresses on door bottom weatherseals.

“The document was developed by the Door Bottom Weatherseals Task Group to establish minimum performance criteria for door bottom weatherseals and to verify installed performance through further testing in accordance with AAMA, ASTM or other test methods. Provisions included in AAMA 703-11 are performance requirements (consisting of compression set and weatherability), test specimens, accelerated weathering attribute tests and formulas for calculations, and product cycling evaluation and test reports,” stated Andrea Rhodes, AAMA’s technical operations supervisor.

The “Voluntary Specifications for Non-Integral Door Bottom Weatherseals” is available to AAMA members at a cost of $10 for download, $20 for a paper copy and $25 for a CD. Non-members may purchase the document at a cost of $30 to download, $60 for a paper copy and $66 to receive a CD. To order AAMA 703-11, visit the AAMA online Publication Store.

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