Frankfurt, May 2026 – In its feedback to ECHA’s SEAC consultation on the proposed PFAS restriction under REACH, EuroWindoor points out that PFAS-containing materials are used in the window, door and façade sector only for a limited number of specific applications subject to particular stress — predominantly in surface coatings and functional components exposed to demanding environmental conditions.
These include fluoropolymer-based coatings on aluminium profiles and façade panels, friction-reducing hardware elements, specialty gaskets, selected façade films and fire-resistant coatings. In all of these uses, PFAS are bound in solid polymer matrices and are not released into the environment during intended use.
For standard exposure conditions, fluorine-free alternatives such as polyester-based coating systems are already available and technically feasible. However, under extreme conditions — such as aggressive coastal or tropical climates, high chemical exposure or very long warranty requirements — current alternatives do not yet fully match the durability and performance of fluoropolymer technologies. When high UV and weather resistance, colour retention, chemical and corrosion resistance, and a long service life are required, PFAS coatings remain the first choice. For other PFAS-containing components, alternatives remain less standardised. A restriction without adequate transition periods could therefore lead to reduced product durability and limitations for buildings with high exposure requirements.
EuroWindoor calls for a transition timeline that reflects the complexity of the construction sector and the need for adequate product validation.
For more see EuroWindoor Feedback to PFAS Survey for 13.07 window frames (May 2026).
Press Contact:
Miriam Weppler
EuroWindoor General Secretariat
Walter-Kolb-Str. 1-7
60594 Frankfurt / Germany
Phone: +49 (69) 95 50 54 – 36
Fax: +49 (69) 95 50 54 – 11
Email: GS@EuroWindoor.eu