What Is PAS 24? A Guide for Aluminium Window and Door Installers
When specifying aluminium windows and doors, security is an important consideration alongside design, performance and ease of installation. PAS 24 is a recognised UK security standard that helps installers and their customers identify products tested to resist common attempts at forced entry.
Whether you’re working on a new-build development, an extension or a replacement project, understanding PAS 24 can help you choose the right aluminium window and door systems for the job.
At Aluframes, we know that getting the specification right from the start is essential. Here’s what installers need to know about PAS 24 and what to consider when selecting products for a project.
What Is PAS 24?
PAS 24 stands for Publicly Available Specification 24. It sets out security testing requirements for external windows and doors intended for use in homes and businesses.
The standard assesses how well a complete window or door can resist attempts at forced entry using physical force and common tools. It looks at the performance of the assembled product rather than simply whether it has a secure lock.
This means the frame, glazing, hinges, locking mechanisms and other key components all play a part in the overall security performance.
For installers, one of the most important things to remember is that PAS 24 applies to a tested product configuration, not automatically to every variation of a window or door system. Changes to the size, hardware or glazing may affect whether the finished product falls within the scope of the relevant test evidence.
At Aluframes, our aluminium windows are PAS 24 security and strength tested, perfect for residential or commercial installation projects.
What Does PAS 24 Testing Involve?
PAS 24 testing is designed to simulate common methods of attempted forced entry. Depending on the product and the applicable test requirements, this can include applying force to vulnerable areas, attacking locking points and attempting to manipulate opening sections.
For aluminium windows, the performance of the opening sash, locking system, hinges and glazing retention is important. For aluminium doors, testing can cover the frame, locking points, hinges and other areas that may be vulnerable to attack. The relevant details will depend on the type of door being tested.
The aim is to establish whether the complete product meets the required security performance criteria when tested in its specified configuration.
PAS 24 and Building Regulations
PAS 24 is particularly relevant to new-build housing in England, where Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations addresses the security of easily accessible doors and windows.
Depending on the project, windows and doors may need to demonstrate compliance with PAS 24 to meet the relevant security requirements.
This can include ground-floor openings and other windows or doors that are readily accessible from outside, such as those reached from a balcony or flat roof. Requirements always depend on the project, so it’s important to confirm the applicable Building Regulations and compliance needed for installation to begin.
For replacement windows and doors, PAS 24 may not be a specific legal requirement in every case. However, security performance is still worth considering when advising customers and selecting products.
Why Installation Matters
Even a product that has been tested to PAS 24 needs to be installed correctly. The way a frame is fixed, the suitability of the surrounding structure and the correct adjustment of the opening sections all contribute to the finished installation.
For installers, this means following the product-specific installation guidance and using the specified fixings and installation methods. Any requirements relating to the supporting structure, frame positioning, glazing and hardware adjustment should be checked before work begins.
It’s also important not to assume that a PAS 24-tested product will retain the same performance if it is modified or installed outside the conditions covered by its supporting documentation.
How Aluframes Can Help
At Aluframes, we understand that installers need clear product information and the right specification to keep projects running smoothly.
Whether you’re quoting for a single replacement installation or working on a larger residential development, checking the security requirements early can help you select a suitable aluminium window or door system from the outset.
If your project requires PAS 24, speak to our team about our relevant products, available configurations and supporting documentation before placing your order. We can talk you through the different systems and their benefits, as well as any regulations and security information.
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