New UNI 11979: the standard for subframes and monobloc unit

Starting from May 29, 2025, the UNI 11979:2025 standard will officially enter into force. This long-awaited regulatory reference establishes clear criteria and testing methods for the characterization of subframes and monoblock subframes intended for windows, doors, solar shading, and blackout systems.

It is an important evolution for the entire window and construction sector, aiming to standardize the minimum performance requirements for components that are often overlooked but are central to the energy efficiency and durability of the building envelope. The goal is to provide an objective basis for performance evaluation and for the adoption of more informed technical solutions by designers, manufacturers, and companies.

It is important to clarify that the application of this standard, which does not provide for the issuance of CE marking, is limited to freely installable subframes and monoblock subframes, since proprietary subframes and monoblock subframes are subject to the standards and testing procedures provided for the window or door for which they were designed and manufactured.

The tests required by UNI 11979: a complete set to guarantee quality and performance

UNI 11979 introduces a testing framework derived from UNI EN 14351-1 and designed to validate the most critical characteristics of subframes during installation and throughout the building’s lifecycle. These include:

• Air and water tightness, essential for ensuring comfort and preventing condensation or infiltration.

• Thermal and acoustic insulation, measured through parameters such as the linear thermal transmittance value (Ψ) and the difference in sound reduction index (ΔRw).

• Mechanical resistance and behavior under load, to verify the stability of the structure in both ordinary and extraordinary conditions.

• Burglar resistance, integrated with the criteria of UNI EN 1627 and UNI 11781, to ensure safety and passive protection.

The standard also regulates the required documentation, the minimum specifications to be included in contracts, and the inspections to be carried out on-site, making quality control possible even during the construction phase.
 

Our contribution: a laboratory ready for new challenges

In this evolving regulatory context, our laboratory is already fully operational to perform all the tests required by UNI 11979, as well as all the tests required by UNI EN 14351-1.

We have the equipment and expertise needed to carry out comprehensive tests on subframes and monoblocks, and the most attentive manufacturers have already contacted us to perform the required tests.

UNI 11979 represents an opportunity: to improve building performance, to raise the perceived quality of products, and to build in a more responsible and informed way. And we are ready to support you on this journey.
 

For information:

Acoustic tests: Andrea Cucchi – a.cucchi@giordano.it

Thermal tests: Corrado Colagiacomo – c.colagiacomo@giordano.it

Air and water tightness tests: Paolo Bertini – p.bertini@giordano.it

All our services for the window and door sector in a single brochure