Build to BAL-FZ in Blue Mountains NSW - windows

Gday,

We are very committed to building on a beautiful block in the Blue Mountains but we have been advised that the BAL rating will be FZ for 3 sides and 40 for the last one.

The main issue we have is windows. We have been researching this for a while and spoke to a couple of builders. The general answer is that sprinklers are no longer required for AS3959:2009 and that the windows have to be BAL-40 and BAL-FZ shutters. All three builders seem to discard the fact that there are BAL-FZ rated windows available

We also came across this document - A Guide to Windows Doors in Bushfire Prone Areas https://www.awa.org.au/documents/item/174 which gives 3 options for BAL-FZ windows,

Option 1 says 'Standard windows can be used provided they are completely protected by bushfire shutters
complying with AS3959:2009' - which contradicts what the builders have told us.

Our preferred option, option 2 says 'The window system shall comply with AS1530.8.2 when tested from the outside or have and FRL of at least -/30/- and All openable portions shall be internally or externally screened with metal screens with maximum aperture of 2mm. (steel or bronze).'

We do not like the look and limitations of shutters and would rather have a 'passive' protection method anyway - what if we cant make it in time to close the shutters?

There is where we hope to get some help.

Has anyone had any past dealings with the Blue Mountains City Council/RFS in regards to BAL-FZ windows with no shutters?

Also, who ultimately will be be telling us whether our windows will be ok for BAL-FZ code? BMCC, RFS, private bushfire consultant?

Cheers,

Atish

hi Atish....Could I ask where is your block in the Blue Mountains?

I haven't had any dealings with the Blue Mountains council but till I know how they will tell that the materials are ok for BAL-FZ is by the testing done and the level they have been approved for. All approved products with come with their technical data and thereby the person approving it will confirm that when they see the data attached to that window/glass you will be using.
With regards to option-1 - these are the only shutters now available in Australia and they are around $1100 per sq.m - http://sonnenschutz.com.au/data/documen ... 202012.pdf

With regards to Option-2 - The two types of window/glass approved are http://www.paarhammer.com.au/bal-FZ-windows and the other is a specialised glass from Nippon Electric, Japan. Got a approx. pricing from Paarhammer of about $2500 per sq.m. couldn't find a dealer for the other glass but I think the pricing could be similar but the other glass from Japan is much better than the german one.

So with regards to Option-3...this is what all the builders recommend as this would work out cheaper than the above two.

Hope this was helpful and have made clear a few issues...hope you find a suitable solution....nisha

@NishaR:

Apologies for opening this old thread but I found your post a bit useful, thought of seeking some info from you.

I am building 3 houses in Blue mountains in Katoomba and I have got all 3 bal fz ratings.

Could you pls help to share Ur experience with paarhammer, have you ended up using them or any other options ?

I have got a quote for just shutters about 1600 (negotiable) per sqm plus I ll have to add doors and windows cost etc. Instead I am thinking about paarhammer.

Please advise

Regards
Vamshi