What is BS EN 1279-2 - Insulating glass units - moisture penetration about?
BS EN 1279‑2 is part two of a multi-series of European standards on insulating glass units in building that covers long term test method and requirements for moisture penetration.
BS EN 1279‑2 describes the test method for the determination of moisture penetration index and specifies the requirements for limit values for insulating glass units made:
- In accordance with EN 12791:2018 and manufactured to EN 12796:2018
- For the purpose to demonstrate that components (e.g. edge seals or spacers) will allow the insulating glass unit to conform to the requirements given in EN 12791:2018, Clause 6
Who is BS EN 1279-2 - Insulating glass units - moisture penetration for?
BS EN 1279-2 on insulating glass units - moisture penetration is useful for: 
- Insulating glass units manufacturers
- Constructors
Why should you use BS EN 1279-2 - Insulating glass units - moisture penetration?
Insulated Glass combines two or more glass panes that are spaced apart and sealed with a sealant to appear as a single unit. Also called double glazing, IGUs are designed to reduce heat loss and solar heat gain entering the building, while reducing visible light transmittance. Hence, they improve the thermal performance, and reduce energy costs. They can be fabricated to meet sound control requirements, seismic requirements, bullet resistance, hurricane and blast resistance requirements, impact resistance and state energy codes.
Moisture penetration is caused when water enters a building from the outside through faulty rainwater protection equipment or infrastructure. It is common in buildings of all ages, especially in regions with varied climates.
With the use of BS EN 1279-2, you can evaluate the moisture penetration in buildings and with this information you make the necessary changes required to the production of glass so as to safeguard the users of your product. Ensuring this quality audit can help build credibility between your customers.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 1279-2:2018 supersedes BS EN 1279-2:2002, which is withdrawn.
BS EN 1279-2:2018 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 1279-2:2002. These are:
- Measurement of the dew point of the 15 specimens was removed, the specimens are randomly selected
- The time to move the specimens from one cabinet to another was increased
- The minimum storage duration before testing was reduced to 3 days
- Test report was revised adding a full description of the test specimens
- Moisture content in insulating glass units without desiccant was moved to Annex A
