December 2025: New Standards for Construction Materials and Building Hardware

With a wave of innovation and regulatory alignment, December 2025 saw the release of five pivotal international standards for the construction materials and building sector. Covering advanced requirements for window and door hardware, BAC control loop assemblies for HVAC, and enhanced safety rules for special lifts, these standards set new benchmarks for quality, security, and accessibility. Professionals across engineering, compliance, research, and procurement will find significant updates that impact best practices, safety, and competitive advantage. This article—part one of two—delves into each standard in detail, helping you navigate compliance and drive operational excellence in the rapidly evolving construction industry.

Overview

The construction materials and building hardware sector relies on robust, harmonized standards to ensure product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. International standards offer a foundation for durability, effective performance, and the protection of occupants and users in built environments. In December 2025, five critical standards were published or updated, reflecting ongoing advancements in hardware design, building automation, and safety for both products and building occupants—including those with additional accessibility requirements.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of each new publication, spotlighting what’s changed, who needs to pay attention, and what it means for your next projects or procurement cycles. Readers will gain:

• Detailed explanations of new and revised requirements
• Clarity on application and compliance
• Practical insights for implementation, testing, and certification
• Authoritative references and resources via direct iTeh Standards links

Detailed Standards Coverage

EN 13126-10:2025 – Arm-Balancing Systems for Windows and Door-Height Windows

Full Standard Title: Building hardware – Hardware for windows and door height windows – Requirements and test methods – Part 10: Arm-balancing systems

Released by CEN in December 2025, EN 13126-10:2025 provides comprehensive requirements and testing methods for arm-balancing systems used in standard and door-height windows. These components are vital for secure, balanced operation in sashes and frames that require durable support and safe manual manipulation.

Scope and Application

EN 13126-10:2025 details the classification, performance, and durability standards for arm-balancing systems. Its coverage extends to:

• Durability, static loading, and corrosion resistance
• Test methods for repeated operational cycles
• Updated definitions, specimen requirements, and test rig configurations

Manufacturers, suppliers, installers, and quality managers involved with window hardware must comply with these updated specifications. Building owners and facility managers also benefit indirectly through increased reliability, longer service life, and minimized safety risks.

Notable Changes from Previous Edition

Compared with the 2008 version, this edition is now fully independent from EN 13126-1, consolidating all essential information. The classification system has been overhauled, with new durability grades (H1: 5,000 cycles, H2: 10,000, H3: 20,000), revised corrosion resistance text, and additional definitions to clarify test protocols.

Practical Implications

Implementing EN 13126-10:2025 ensures:

• Reliable function and strength under daily use and environmental stress
• Consistency in product marking and traceability
• Ease of certification and market access

Key highlights:

• Independent, consolidated requirements and test methods
• Overhauled classification for durability, mass, and corrosion
• New marking and reporting obligations for hardware

Access the full standard: View EN 13126-10:2025 on iTeh Standards

EN 13126-11:2025 – Top Hung Projecting Reversible Hardware

Full Standard Title: Building hardware – Hardware for windows and door height windows – Requirements and test methods – Part 11: Top hung projecting reversible hardware

This standard addresses top hung projecting reversible hardware—mechanisms critical for modern, flexible window installations. EN 13126-11:2025 specifies robust requirements for strength, durability, security, and proper function in these complex hinge and pivot assemblies.

Scope and Requirements

Main provisions involve:

• Product testing for durability (grades H1–H3)
• Static load and ease of movement tests
• Guidance for hardware with or without integral restrictors (to be separately validated via EN 13126-5)
• Updated terms and expanded definitions, including specimens and test rigs

EN 13126-11:2025 matters for any organization producing, specifying, or installing reversible window solutions—ensuring safety and longevity, especially in high-traffic or multi-story environments.

Implementation Implications

Complying with this standard enables:

• Verified performance under frequent reverse operations
• Resistance to environmental factors via updated corrosion testing
• Easier product comparison thanks to enhanced marking protocols

Notable Revisions

The 2025 revision is standalone, incorporates new grades for operational cycles, clearly defines hardware types, and modernizes corrosion protocol language. These updates mean better product clarity and a direct pathway to harmonized market acceptance.

Key highlights:

• Standalone document—no external references required
• Enhanced classification and marking system
• Broader recognition of restrictor types and operational modes

Access the full standard: View EN 13126-11:2025 on iTeh Standards

EN 13126-12:2025 – Side Hung Projecting Reversible Hardware

Full Standard Title: Building hardware – Hardware for windows and door height windows – Requirements and test methods – Part 12: Side hung projecting reversible hardware

A critical update for manufacturers and installers, EN 13126-12:2025 brings new precision to requirements for side hung projecting reversible window hardware. Applicable to both integral and non-integral restrictors (with restrictors subject to EN 13126-5), its thorough test methods empower consistent and safe installations.

Scope and Specifications

EN 13126-12:2025 encompasses:

• Durability ratings (up to 20,000 cycles)
• Static, obstructed track, ease of movement, and additional load tests
• Updated specimen, sample, and test rig definitions
• Corrosion resistance evaluation according to EN 1670

Who Should Comply

Window and building hardware manufacturers, construction specifiers, and facility maintenance teams are direct stakeholders. Adhering to EN 13126-12:2025 reduces the risk of failures, enhances end-user safety, and aligns procurement with best-in-class performance metrics.

Noteworthy Changes

This revision is self-contained, introduces extra grades for durability, and revises the classification. Corrosion resistance measures and additional marking requirements are also strengthened.

Key highlights:

• Broad coverage: both integral and non-integral restrictors
• Expanded durability and load testing
• Clearer identification and reporting for hardware products

Access the full standard: View EN 13126-12:2025 on iTeh Standards

EN 17691-1:2025 – Valve and Actuator Assemblies for Water-Based HVAC in BAC Control Loops

Full Standard Title: Components for BAC control loops – Valve and actuator assemblies – Part 1: Water-based HVAC applications

EN 17691-1:2025 introduces unified requirements and testing protocols for valve-actuator assemblies in building automation and control (BAC) for water-based HVAC systems. This standard supports the drive for improved energy efficiency, comfort, and system interoperability in modern buildings.

Scope and Coverage

This standard covers valve-actuator assemblies for 2-port, 3-port, and 6-port control valves (up to DN50) in hydronic systems. Highlights include:

• Performance criteria for flow control, pressure dependency, and accuracy
• Interchangeability across components in BAC control loops
• Requirements for control performance classes and key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Prescriptive test procedures, including closed loop and pressure dependency tests

Architects, mechanical engineers, building automation integrators, product designers, and HVAC maintenance providers must reference EN 17691-1:2025 for compliance and optimal system design.

Implementation Impact and Benefits

Adopting this standard facilitates:

• Reduced energy consumption and improved thermal comfort
• Standardized communication between BAC components
• Simplified maintenance through product interchangeability
• Better market acceptance via quantifiable product KPIs

Notable Advancements

The 2025 release incorporates advanced definitions (e.g., control performance, flow coefficients), addresses BAC quality impacts on energy performance, and aligns test protocols with related European standards (e.g., EN 15500-1).

Key highlights:

• Covers both pressure-independent and pressure-dependent assemblies
• Rigorous test and performance evaluation framework
• Reinforces quality, reliability, and interoperability in BAC-driven HVAC

Access the full standard: View EN 17691-1:2025 on iTeh Standards

EN 81-42:2025 – Vertical Lifting Appliances with Enclosed Carrier (Special Lifts for Persons, Including Persons with Disability)

Full Standard Title: Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts – Special lifts for the transport of persons and goods – Part 42: Vertical lifting appliances with enclosed carrier intended for use by persons, including persons with disability

EN 81-42:2025 is a foundation for accessible, safe vertical transport in building environments. Focused on lifts capable of transporting persons (including those with disabilities), this updated standard addresses design, manufacturing, and operational safety for permanent, electrically powered lifting appliances.

Scope and Application

Key coverage includes:

• Lifts with an enclosed well and carrier, traveling vertically up to 15° from true vertical
• Supported by diverse mechanisms: rack and pinion, rope and traction, chains, hydraulic jacks, etc.
• Usable by persons, including those with limited mobility; explicitly includes accessibility features
• Maximum speed: 0.15 m/s; carrier must be fully enclosed
• Specified operational temperature ranges for well and machinery spaces
• Comprehensive requirements for safety, design, component quality, and documentation

This standard is a must for developers, building owners, elevator manufacturers, accessibility consultants, and facilities required to meet regulatory or social standards on inclusion.

Notable Exclusions

Additional requirements for ATEX zones, lightning, primary goods lifts, events like earthquakes or floods, and certain wheelchair types fall outside the scope. Firefighting, evacuation, and sliding door specifics are also not covered.

Implementation Drivers

• Assures compliance with evolving EU and national accessibility laws
• Drives improvements in lift safety, reliability, and maintainability
• Mandates third-party validation before first use

Key highlights:

• Encompasses a broad range of supporting technologies for lifts
• Focused accessible design and inclusive safety requirements
• Detailed component and installation validation protocols

Access the full standard: View EN 81-42:2025 on iTeh Standards

Industry Impact & Compliance

The December 2025 standards present both opportunities and obligations for businesses operating in construction, manufacturing, and facility management. Key considerations include:

• Design & Specification: Specification teams must reference these standards in tender and documentation to fulfill client, regulatory, and insurer requirements.
• Procurement: Sourcing compliant hardware or HVAC components is now non-negotiable—suppliers should provide conformance declarations. Non-compliant products risk project rejection and liabilities.
• Installation & Maintenance: Installers and servicing providers must apply new test methods and ensure all markings, documentation, and user materials match current standards.
• Training & Certification: Staff should be trained in new requirements, performance classes, and testing protocols. Many certifications will require evidence of alignment with the 2025 standards.

Benefits of Compliance:

• Enhanced safety for end-users, especially in high-use and accessible environments
• Lower risk of costly failures, recalls, or liability claims
• Competitive differentiation via documented quality and conformance
• Streamlined access to international markets and reduced barriers for export or cooperation

Risks of Non-Compliance:

• Legal penalties, remediation orders, or project shutdowns
• Increased safety incidents and associated reputational damage
• Loss of business from non-aligning with industry best practices

Technical Insights

Several technical themes run through these new and revised standards:

• Durability and Performance: Most standards introduce or reinforce cyclic testing (e.g., 5,000–20,000 cycles) to ensure hardware longevity, particularly for moving parts.
• Corrosion Resistance: Enhanced protocols (referencing EN 1670) standardize resistance to environmental wear, crucial in various climates and applications.
• Marking and Certification: Expanded marking requirements facilitate product traceability, reduce substitution risks, and support easier compliance audits.
• Test Procedures: Unified steps for specimen preparation, rig setup, and measurement improve comparability across products and labs.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: EN 81-42:2025 sets new benchmarks for making vertical transport safe and accessible for all, requiring thoughtful design and robust fail-safes.
• BAC and HVAC Integration: EN 17691-1:2025 highlights how close integration and standardized component evaluation deliver both energy savings and interoperability in building control systems.

Implementation Best Practices:

1. Early collaboration among design, procurement, compliance, and facilities teams.
2. Leverage certified suppliers and tested products.
3. Incorporate updated test protocols into factory and field quality control processes.
4. Ensure up-to-date documentation and product labelling.
5. Train staff on changes and audit for conformity.

Testing & Certification:

• Engage accredited labs for durability, static load, and corrosion testing.
• Maintain records of certificates, test reports, and conformity declarations tied to new marking protocols.

Conclusion / Next Steps

December 2025’s tranche of international standards for construction materials and building hardware reflects a sector-wide advance in safety, efficiency, and inclusivity. With new requirements spanning window hardware, BAC HVAC assemblies, and special lifts, organizations can secure project success, minimize risk, and drive value for end users.

Key Takeaways:

• Decisive updates require immediate review of product specifications, training, and procurement policies.
• Compliance ensures safety, delivers operational excellence, and opens new markets.
• Non-compliance risks business continuity, safety, and brand reputation.

Recommendations:

• Download and study the full standards via iTeh Standards in your area of expertise.
• Audit your current products, designs, and specifications against new requirements.
• Update internal documentation, procurement, and installation practices accordingly.
• Stay informed as part 2 of this series brings you additional standard updates for December 2025.

Explore all international standards for construction materials and building at iTeh Standards. Stay ahead—be informed, be compliant, and build a better world.