Ensuring Performance
AAMA 307 Sets the Framework for Laminated Profiles
by Glenn Ferris
For creative interior designers and architects, laminates provide an affordable means to inject vibrancy into a project. But in terms of futureproofing (and weatherproofing), the performance of those laminates is critical, particularly when it comes to profile wrapping for doors and windows.
How does a designer work toward such an outcome? See AAMA 307, Voluntary Specification for Laminates Intended for Use on AAMA Certified Profiles. Updated from its 2016 iteration, the 2026 version of this specification applies to laminate materials intended for application to either interior or exterior surfaces on AAMA Certified Profiles. It is intended to assist the architect, owner and contractor in specifying and obtaining factory applied laminates, which will provide and maintain an appropriate level of performance for interior and exterior applications over a period of many years. Performance requirements include weathering, chemical resistance, detergent resistance and sealant compatibility.
As defined in the updated document, exterior surfaces are exposed surfaces, visible when viewed from the building exterior with operating sash or ventilators in the closed and locked position. Interior surfaces are defined as the exposed surfaces visible when viewed from the building interior with operating sash ventilators in the closed and locked positions. Interior laminates can extend onto parting stops only to the extent of covering the non-outward facing surfaces. The exception, it should be noted, applies to areas of transition determined by the manufacturer for interior/exterior laminates.
Weathering, Color Retention and UV Testing Requirements
When it comes to testing and performance for weathering, the document requires that testing be conducted per the requirements of AAMA 303 for weathering periods of six, 12 and 24 months. As far as performance, laminate colors, defined by the initial color definitions in AAMA 303, 308, 309 and 310, must meet the color retention criteria outlined in AAMA 303. The AAMA 304 requirement has been eliminated.
For interior testing, a minimum of three randomly selected samples of laminated surfaces must be exposed to ultra-violet/fluorescent testing in accordance with ASTM G154, Cycle 1. A maximum of ΔE units (Hunter) color change after 2,000 hours is allowed in accordance with ASTM D2244.
Chemical Resistance, Adhesion and Compatibility Testing
In addition to UV testing, both interior and exterior laminates must undergo muriatic acid resistance testing, according to AAMA 613, Section 7.6.1. A minimum of four tests must be conducted with no blistering or visual change in appearance by the unaided eye.
As far as mortar resistance testing, the standard points to the 24-Hour Pat Test, in which samples must be aged at least 24 hours. Samples are then immediately exposed for 24 hours to 100% relative humidity (RH) at 38°C (100°F). Testing must be conducted on a minimum of four separate samples. Performance requirements are as follows:
- Mortar shall dislodge easily from laminated surface and any residue shall be removable with a damp cloth.
- There shall be no loss of laminate adhesion and no change in surface appearance when examined by the unaided eye.
- For detergent resistance testing, consult Table 1 of the document.
Sealant compatibility testing requires it to be compatible with laminated surfaces and meet the performance requirements of AAMA 800. Deleterious effects such as laminate separation, staining, lifting, discoloration or loss of adhesion must not be evident when inspected. Fabricators of assembled fenestration products should consult sealant suppliers to select a sealant which will exhibit adequate adhesion. The peel adhesion tests described in AAMA 800 are suggested.
Finally, for lead content testing, surface treatments must comply with AAMA 303 and perform as indicated in Table 2 in the document. Again, AAMA 304 requirements have been removed from color weatherability testing.
AAMA 307-26, as well as other documents available from FGIA, may be purchased from the online store.
