Don’t Panic!
The new window regulations are easy for you to comply with…….
The new Part L Building Regulations in England and Wales have now been finalised, putting an end to months of speculation about what may or may not be the outcome and impact on window installers.
As suspected, the final version of the legislation demands either a Window Energy Rating of C or higher, or a U-value of 1.6W/m2K – lower than the previous requirement for a U-value of 2.0W/m2K.
All replacement windows will need to meet this more stringent legislation by 1st October.
So, from the 1st October, every replacement window (including fully reinforced windows Tilt and Turns and vertical sliders) will have to have either a Window Energy Rating of C or higher, or must meet the U-value requirement of 1.6W/m2K.
The good news is that Lister Trade Frames have been preparing for this for the last 4 years and Listers offer Energy Rated Windows across their entire range with ‘A’ WERs as Standard. We also provide you with a completion folder (For your Customer) which includes a 15 Year Guarantee and a BFRC certificate showing the energy performance of their windows. This is provided Free of Charge with every order.
Many of our customers are already benefiting from selling WERs. The reason: homeowners prefer products that save energy and reduce their heating bills.
So, Compliance with the new regulations is easy – Lister Trade Frames are here to support you.
You can read or download the full Part L document here: Approved Document Part L
The principal changes announced are:
For replacement windows, compliance to be based on Window Energy Rating Band C (currently Band E) with an alternative of a U-value of not worse than 1.6W/m2K (currently 2.0W/m2K). The centre pane alternative of 1.2W/m2K remains but for a limited range of applications only.
Conservatories – the current exemption clause remains
The potentially burdensome requirement of ‘Consequential Improvements’ has been excluded.
A proposal for trickle vents to be fitted to all replacement windows has been dropped.
For WERs, the calculations, bandings and a common basis for sensible control measures are listed within Advanced Document L, ensuring consistency between potential future operators and thereby providing a level playing field for the industry and clarity for the consumer.
These will be become mandatory from 1 October 2010.
