Code of Practice for Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Timber Doors and Windows

IS 4913: Scope - Key Points and Specifications

• Scope Definition: Applies to materials and practices for door, window, and ventilator frames and shutters, referencing IS: 707-1968 and IS: 1081-1960 for definitions.

• Materials:

  • Glass must conform to IS: 1761-1960 (sheet glass).
  • User may specify glass types: frosted, wired, coloured, etc.

• Ordering Information (Clause 4.1): Purchaser must provide:

  • Building type (permanent, temporary, portable)
  • Climatic conditions
  • Architectural needs (louvers, vision panels)
  • Standard size/modular requirements
  • Material availability

• Rounding Off: Final values must be rounded per IS: 2-1960, maintaining significant figures.

Summary Table for Material Selection Considerations

This code is a recommendation standard aligned with international practices.

flowchart TD
    A[Order Placement] --> B[Provide Building Type]
    A --> C[Specify Climate]
    A --> D[Architectural Requirements]
    A --> E[Standard Sizes]
    A --> F[Material Availability]
    B & C & D & E & F --> G[Material Selection & Specification]

This ensures appropriate selection per IS 4913 scope.

IS 4913: General Requirements for Doors, Windows & Ventilators

Key Specifications

• Glass:

  • Must conform to IS:1761-1960 (Sheet glass for glazing).
  • Types allowed: frosted, wired, coloured glass (user-specified).

• Materials:

  • For permanent buildings:
    • Frames: Grade I timber or pressed steel.
    • Shutters: Grade I timber.
  • For temporary buildings:
    • Frames: Grade I or II timber.
    • Shutters: Grade I or II timber or cellular/hollow core flush door shutters.

Ordering Information (Clause 4.1)

Purchaser must specify:

• Building type (permanent/temporary/portable)
• Climatic conditions
• Architectural needs (louvres, vision panels)
• Standard sizes/modularity
• Material availability

Reference Standards

• IS:707-1968 & IS:1081-1960 for definitions
• IS:1761-1960 for glass specifications

Summary Table

This ensures durability, climatic adaptability, and architectural compatibility.

IS 4913: Materials and Hardware Selection - Key Points

Materials for Hardware (Clause 3.5.4)

• Common materials:
  • Mild steel
  • Brass
  • Oxidized iron
  • Anodized aluminium
• Selection depends on:
  • Durability
  • Corrosion resistance (especially coastal areas)
  • Load requirements (heavy doors need special hinges)

Selection Criteria (Clause 4.1 & 3.5.3)

• Consider:
  • Building type (permanent, temporary, portable)
  • Climatic conditions (humidity, coastal salt air)
  • Architectural needs (louvres, vision panels)
  • Standard sizes and modularity
  • Material availability
  • Economy and maintenance

Reference Standards for Materials (Clause 2.1)

• IS 707-1968 (Wood-based materials)
• IS 1081-1960 (Hardware specifications)

Summary Table: Hardware Material Suitability

flowchart TD
    A[Material Selection] --> B{Building Type}
    A --> C{Climate}
    A --> D{Architectural Needs}
    A --> E{Economy & Availability}
    B --> F[Permanent]
    B --> G[Temporary/Portable]
    C --> H[Coastal]
    C --> I[Inland]
    D --> J[Louvres]
    D --> K[Vision Panels]
    E --> L[Cost]
    E --> M[Material Stock]

Note: Always provide full specifications when ordering (Clause 4.1) to ensure correct material and hardware selection.

IS 4913: Ordering and Specifications for Doors, Windows & Ventilators

Key Points from Clause 4.1 & Related Clauses:

• Ordering Information Must Include:

  • Type of building: permanent, temporary, or portable
  • Climatic conditions at site
  • Architectural features: louvres, vision panels, etc.
  • Standard sizes/modular requirements
  • Material availability

• Materials:

  • Glass must conform to IS: 1761-1960
  • Specify glass type: frosted, wired, coloured, etc.

• Drawings:

  • Provide detailed drawings for special fixtures (louvres, vision panels)

Summary Table: Ordering Checklist

Reference Standards:

• IS: 1761-1960 – Specification for sheet glass
• IS: 707-1968 – Steel windows, ventilators
• IS: 1081-1960 – Aluminium windows

This ensures clarity and completeness in orders, facilitating accurate manufacturing and installation.

IS 4913: Types and Choice of Shutters – Key Points

• Types of Shutters (Clause 5.3):

  • Panelled doors: Solid wood panels, traditional look.
  • Glazed doors: Fully or partly glazed for light and visibility.
  • Flush doors: Smooth surface, economical and functional.
  • Choice depends on aesthetic, functional needs, and economy.

• Thickness (Clause 3.3.1):

  • Minimum thickness for permanent doors: 40 mm
  • Temporary doors may be thinner but require extra maintenance.

• Decorative Shutters (Clause 3.4.2):

  • For high-class buildings, decorative shutters with specified timber face are recommended.

• Size Selection (Clause 5.5):

  • Frame and shutter sizes must follow relevant IS standard sizes (e.g., IS 2202 for door frames).

Typical Thickness & Size Summary

Selection Flowchart

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Door Requirement] --> B{Function & Aesthetic?}
    B -->|Light & Visibility| C[Glazed Door]
    B -->|Traditional Look| D[Panelled Door]
    B -->|Economical| E[Flush Door]
    C --> F[Select Thickness ≥ 40 mm]
    D --> F
    E --> F
    F --> G[Check Size per IS Standards]
    G --> H[Specify Timber if Decorative]
    H --> I[Finalize Shutter Type]

Summary: Choose shutter type based on use and appearance, maintain minimum 40 mm thickness for permanence, and adhere to IS standard sizes for frames and shutters.

IS 4913 — Storage and Handling of Wooden Frames and Shutters

Key Specifications from IS 4913:

• Storage Conditions (Clause 6.2):

  • Store in dry, clean, covered, and well-ventilated spaces.
  • Avoid infestation and dampness.
  • Stack frames vertically with cross battens of uniform thickness placed one over the other to keep stacks straight.
  • Door shutters stacked vertically, at least 8 cm above ground on pallets or beams.
  • Cover the top of stacks and weigh down with scantlings or suitable weights.
  • Store on hard, level ground (see IS 4082-1967).

• Handling (Clause 6.1):

  • Avoid dragging frames/shutters to prevent surface damage.
  • Lift and carry materials flat, protecting corners and edges.

• Wet Material Handling (Clause 6.2.2):

  • Separate wet from dry materials.
  • Dry wet materials by stacking in shade with battens between boards for air circulation.
  • Follow IS 1141-1958 guidelines for drying.

Summary Table for Storage:

flowchart TD
    A[Unloading] --> B[Lift Flat, Avoid Dragging]
    B --> C[Stack Vertically with Cross Battens]
    C --> D{Storage Location}
    D -->|Dry, Clean, Covered| E[Store on Hard Level Ground]
    E --> F[Cover and Weigh Down Stack]
    A --> G{Material Wet?}
    G -->|Yes| H[Separate Wet Material]
    H --> I[Stack in Shade with Battens for Drying]
    G -->|No| C

This ensures durability, surface protection, and prevents damage during storage and handling.

IS 4913: Installation Methods for Timber Door & Window Frames

Key Installation Methods (Clause 7.1)

• Built-in Method: Frame is fixed during wall construction.
• Prepared Opening Method (Preferred): Frame installed into a pre-formed opening after wall construction, reducing distortion and moisture effects.

Important Specifications

• Installation must be done by qualified skilled craftsmen.
• Special door/window types (louvres, vision panels) require careful study and skill.
• Proper fitment of hinges, fittings, and accessories is critical for performance.
• Glass must conform to IS 1761-1960 (sheet glass standards).

Installation Tips

• Ensure frame plumb and square before fixing.
• Use shims and wedges to adjust frame position.
• Allow for expansion gaps around frames.
• Seal joints to prevent moisture ingress.

Summary Table: Installation Method Comparison

flowchart LR
    A[Wall Construction] --> B[Prepared Opening]
    B --> C[Frame Installation]
    C --> D[Door/Window Fixing]
    A --> E[Built-in Frame Fixing]
    E --> F[Door/Window Fixing]

This ensures durable, distortion-free installation per IS 4913 guidelines.

IS 4913: Installation Procedures for Timber Doors & Windows

While IS 4913 does not specify explicit formulas or tables for installation, it emphasizes critical procedural guidelines:

Key Points on Installation:

• Qualified Skilled Workmanship: Installation must be done by trained craftsmen familiar with specific door/window types (louvres, vision panels).
• Careful Study of Drawings: Special arrangements require detailed understanding before fixing.
• Proper Selection & Fitment: Choose doors/windows suited to use; install hinges, fittings accurately for smooth operation.
• Inspection Post-Installation: Check for correct installation, proper clearances, and smooth functioning (Clause 10.1).
• Sequence of Fixing: Align installation with building operations to avoid damage or misalignment (Clause 11).

General Installation Checklist:

• Verify frame alignment & plumb.
• Secure frames firmly to surrounding masonry/structure.
• Maintain recommended clearances for expansion.
• Fit hardware (hinges, locks) precisely.
• Ensure shutters open/close without obstruction.

flowchart TD
    A[Study Drawings & Specifications] --> B[Select Suitable Door/Window]
    B --> C[Prepare Opening & Frame]
    C --> D[Fix Frame in Position]
    D --> E[Install Shutters & Hardware]
    E --> F[Inspect & Adjust for Smooth Operation]

Summary: IS 4913 guides on skilled installation and inspection rather than formulas. Follow best practices for fitment, alignment, and finishing to ensure durability and serviceability.

IS 4913: Site Finishing & Surface Treatment for Timber Doors/Windows

Key Specifications (Clause 9.2 & 9.2.1):

• Surface Preparation:
  • Sand timber surface to smoothness.
  • Fill depressions with wood putty.
  • Apply suitable filler/primer (white lead primer, aluminium primer, or varnish filler).
  • Allow drying, then sand again for smooth finish.
• Finish Coats:
  • Apply undercoat followed by finishing coat of paint, varnish, wax, or lacquer.
  • Touch-ups to be done finally.
• Protection & Decoration:
  • Finish must protect from weather and provide decoration (Clause 9.1).

Reference Standards:

• IS 2338 (Part I & II) for painting materials and methods.

Typical Surface Treatment Process:

flowchart LR
    A[Timber Surface] --> B[Sanding to Smoothness]
    B --> C[Filling with Wood Putty]
    C --> D[Apply Primer/Filler]
    D --> E[Dry & Sand Smooth]
    E --> F[Apply Undercoat]
    F --> G[Apply Finishing Coat]
    G --> H[Final Touch-up]

Important Notes:

• Use primers compatible with finish coats.
• Ensure drying time as per paint manufacturer.
• Special fixtures per Clause 8.12 as per builder's specs.

This ensures durability, weather resistance, and aesthetics as per IS 4913.

IS 4913 - Adjustment and Alignment of Doors & Windows

Key Specifications & Practices:

• Dimensional Coordination: Doors are sized per modular coordination relative to openings, allowing tolerances for fitting without excessive cutting.

• Permissible Adjustments (Clause 8.2):

  • Planing allowance: up to 6 mm on sides, top, and bottom.
  • Maximum cutting: 9 mm only with supplier approval.
  • Fix shutters temporarily with two screws per hinge before flooring polishing; remove and refix after polishing.

• Post-Fixing Checks (Clause 8.7):

  • Verify proper location, alignment, and swinging.
  • Perform necessary rectifications immediately.

Summary Table: Adjustment Limits

Installation Flow:

flowchart TD
    A[Check shutter size before installation] --> B{Is adjustment needed?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Plan sides/top/bottom ≤ 6 mm]
    B -- No --> D[Fix shutters temporarily with screws]
    C --> D
    D --> E[Polish flooring]
    E --> F[Remove shutters]
    F --> G[Refix shutters with all screws]
    G --> H[Check alignment & swinging]
    H --> I[Rectify if necessary]

This ensures proper fitting, alignment, and durability per IS 4913 guidelines.

IS 4913: Installation of Fixtures and Fittings for Timber Doors & Windows

Key Points from IS 4913:

• Clause 8.8:

  • Fix shutters with locks, tower bolts, handles, floor stoppers, aldrops as required.
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions strictly for hardware fixing.
  • Optional fixtures: name plates, vision panels, louvres.

• Clause 8.4:

  • Adhere to special instructions from manufacturers regarding the position of hinges, aldrops, locks.

• Clause 8.12:

  • Special fixtures must follow builder’s drawings/specifications.

General Guidelines:

• Ensure proper selection of fixtures to suit use and environment.
• Use skilled workmanship for installation to ensure durability and functionality.
• Check alignment and smooth operation post-installation.

Typical Fixture Fixing Details (Example):

Summary Diagram:

flowchart LR
    A[Select Fixtures] --> B[Follow Manufacturer's Instructions]
    B --> C[Mark Positions on Shutter/Frame]
    C --> D[Fix Hinges]
    D --> E[Fix Locks, Tower Bolts, Aldrops]
    E --> F[Check Alignment & Operation]
    F --> G[Apply Finishing (Painting/Polishing)]

Note: IS 4913 emphasizes adherence to manufacturer and builder instructions for installation specifics rather than prescribing fixed dimensions or formulas. Always ensure hardware compatibility and proper fixing for long-term performance.

IS 4913 — Maintenance of Timber Doors & Windows: Key Points

Maintenance (Clause 12)

• Purpose: Ensure long service life through proper selection, installation, and upkeep.
• Key Focus: Skilled workmanship in fitting hinges, fittings, and accessories.
• Inspection: Check frames for correct installation before fixing doors (Clause 11.1).
• Clearance: Max 3 mm clearance for smooth shutter operation.
• Cleaning: Post-installation cleaning to remove dirt, putty, etc.
• Finishing: Painting, glazing, and finishing must be done properly on-site.

Specifications Summary:

Additional Guidance:

• Follow definitions and material standards as per IS:707-1968 and IS:1081-1960.
• Maintenance ensures durability and performance of timber doors/windows.

flowchart LR
    A[Frame Installation] --> B{Check Correctness}
    B -->|Yes| C[Fix Door Shutters]
    B -->|No| D[Adjust Frames]
    C --> E[Check Clearance ≤ 3mm]
    E --> F{Fits Smoothly?}
    F -->|Yes| G[Finish & Paint]
    F -->|No| H[Adjust Fittings]
    G --> I[Clean & Inspect Regularly]

Contact BIS offices for detailed clarifications or updates.

IS 4913: Special Instructions and Considerations for Doors & Windows

Key Specifications & Instructions:

• Materials:

  • Glass must conform to IS: 1761-1960 (Clause 3.7).
  • Types of glass include frosted, wired, colored, as specified by the user.

• Information to Provide When Ordering (Clause 4.1):

  • Full details on frames, shutters, hardware, paint, and finishing materials.
  • Consider:
    • Building type: permanent, temporary, portable.
    • Climatic conditions.
    • Architectural features (louvres, vision panels).
    • Standard/modular sizes.
    • Material availability.

• Installation Instructions (Clause 8.4):

  • Follow manufacturer’s special instructions on hinge, aldrops, and lock positions.

Summary Table: Factors Influencing Material Selection

Diagram: Information Flow for Ordering Doors & Windows

flowchart LR
  A[User Requirements] --> B[Provide Full Specs]
  B --> C[Material Selection]
  C --> D[Manufacturer]
  D --> E[Special Instructions]
  E --> F[Installation Compliance]

This ensures adherence to IS 4913 for quality and functional performance.