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IS 1081:1960 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for fixing and glazing of metal (steel and aluminium) doors, windows and ventilators. This code outlines the standard procedures for the installation, fixing, and glazing of metal (steel and aluminium) doors, windows, and ventilators in buildings. Site engineers and architects reference this code to ensure correct alignment, adequate weather-sealing, and the prevention of galvanic corrosion when metal frames contact masonry.
Code of practice for fixing and glazing of metal (steel and aluminium) doors, windows and ventilators
! Aluminium frames must be coated with a thick layer of alkali-resistant bituminous paint where they come into contact with masonry or concrete to prevent corrosion.
! Metal frames should never be forced or distorted to fit into undersized openings; correct masonry clearances must be accurately maintained.
! Glazing should only commence after major wet trades like plastering and flooring are completed to protect the glass and allow the putty to set properly.
Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights
Directly addresses the installation ('fixing') of fenestration, with a modern focus on water and air management.
BS 8213-4:2016BSI (UK)
HighCurrent
Windows and doors - Part 4: Code of practice for the survey and installation of windows and external doorsets
Provides a comprehensive code of practice for the installation ('fixing') of windows and doors in the UK market.
BS 6262-1:2017BSI (UK)
MediumCurrent
Glazing for buildings - Part 1: General methodology for the selection of glazing
Covers the 'glazing' aspect, but from a modern material selection and design perspective, rather than the prescriptive application of putty.
ASTM C1193-16(2021)ASTM International (US)
MediumCurrent
Standard Guide for Use of Joint Sealants
Focuses on modern sealants used for both perimeter sealing ('fixing') and glazing, which replace the putty specified in IS 1081.
Key Differences
≠IS 1081:1960 is prescriptive, specifying outdated materials like linseed oil putty (conforming to IS 109). Modern standards focus on performance-based selection of advanced materials like silicone/polyurethane sealants and EPDM/neoprene gaskets.
≠Modern standards like ASTM E2112 mandate sophisticated water management systems (e.g., integrated flashing, drainage planes, sill pans). IS 1081 relies on a simple, face-sealed approach using mortar and mastic, which is less reliable against water penetration.
≠International standards are linked to product performance testing for air leakage, water penetration, and structural loads (e.g., AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440). IS 1081:1960 is a code of practice for installation and does not specify performance testing requirements for the installed assembly.
≠Fixing methods in IS 1081 are centered on building mild steel lugs into wet masonry. BS 8213-4 and ASTM E2112 cover a wider array of mechanical fasteners (expansion bolts, frame screws) suitable for various modern substrates like concrete, steel studs, and wood framing.
Key Similarities
≈Both IS 1081 and modern standards share the fundamental objective of securely fixing the frame into the structural opening and installing the glass in a weathertight manner.
≈The principle of providing adequate clearance between the window/door frame and the structural opening is common to both, allowing for thermal movement, installation tolerances, and proper sealing.
≈All standards emphasize the need for the structural opening to be clean, correctly dimensioned, and properly prepared before the installation of the frame begins.
≈The concept of using setting blocks to support the weight of the glass pane and maintain clearance from the frame rebate is a fundamental glazing principle found in both IS 1081 and modern glazing guides.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Primary Glazing Compound
Metal casement putty (Type 1 for steel, Type 2 for aluminium) conforming to IS 109.
Structural silicone, polysulfide, or polyurethane sealants; pre-formed gaskets (EPDM, Neoprene).
ASTM C1193 / BS 6262
Frame Fixing Method (Steel)
Mild steel lugs (e.g., 200x30x3 mm) built into masonry at specified intervals (max 750 mm).
Fixings selected based on load calculations, substrate type, and manufacturer's instructions. Not prescriptive.
BS 8213-4
Frame-to-Structure Clearance
Gap to be filled with cement mortar or specified mastic, implying a small gap (e.g., ~6-12 mm).
Typically 10-15 mm to allow for proper sealant joint design and installation adjustment.
BS 8213-4 / ASTM E2112
Waterproofing Strategy
Face sealing: perimeter joint filled with mortar/mastic; glazing sealed with putty.
Drained system: Integrated flashing, weather-resistive barrier, backer rod and sealant, and often a drainage plane.
ASTM E2112
Setting Block Material
Lead or other resilient material.
Non-absorbent, resilient material like Neoprene, EPDM, or silicone with a specified hardness (e.g., 80-90 Shore A durometer).
ASTM E2112
Glass Edge Clearance
Approx. 1.5 mm to 3.0 mm to accommodate putty.
Typically 3 mm to 6 mm or more, depending on glass size and glazing system (wet or dry).
BS 6262
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values4
Quick Reference Values
Minimum clearance between frame and masonry opening5 mm
Minimum fixing lugs per jamb for doors3
Minimum fixing lugs per jamb for windows2
Thickness of back putty bed1.5 mm to 2.0 mm
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
No tables data
Key Clauses
Clause 3 - Handling and Storage of Materials
Clause 4.1 - Fixing of Steel Doors, Windows and Ventilators
Clause 4.2 - Fixing of Aluminium Doors, Windows and Ventilators
How should aluminium frames be protected before fixing?+
Surfaces in contact with masonry should be given a thick coat of alkali-resistant bituminous paint to prevent corrosion.
When is the correct time to carry out glazing work?+
Glazing should be done in the later stages of construction, strictly after completing wet trades like plastering and flooring.
What is the standard method for applying putty?+
Glass must be evenly bedded on a 1.5 mm to 2 mm thick layer of back putty, secured with glazing clips or pins, and smoothly finished with front putty.
How are metal frames secured into masonry?+
Using MS lugs for steel frames or aluminium/galvanized lugs for aluminium frames, which are either embedded in concrete blocks or fixed with countersunk screws to wooden plugs.