The Future Homes Standard will require new build homes to be future-proofed with low carbon heating and world-leading levels of energy efficiency; it will be introduced by 2025.

The updates to both Part L and Part F in particular, have great significance to homeowners, when looking to purchase new window and doors, whether in a new build property, a new conservatory or extension and for replacement windows. These regulations apply to all materials, whether you choose to have PVCu, steel, aluminium, timber or hybrid products. 

If you are looking to build a new home, a new extension or have your windows or doors replaced, you need to be aware of these new regulations. The release of these documents form part of the government’s Future Homes strategy, which aims to reduce carbon emissions from new homes.

However, many parts of the new building regulations also refer to existing dwellings, so it is imperative to choose a supplier who is competent and compliant with the new regulations. Ensure you always obtain a Completion Certificate for any extension work, replacement windows & doors and for works around the home. 

SO, LET’S START WITH DOCUMENT L
Approved Document L sets a new U-Value/ WER limits, which requires the majority of replacement windows and doors to be more energy efficient, which will keep people warm by ensuring less heat escapes your home.
Installing double or triple glazing might cost you more initially but energy efficient windows will save you money in the long term, plus you’ll get other benefits such as reduced external noise and better protection from the outside elements.  Building regs approval is required for replacement windows and doors and must comply with the new Approved Document L.  External windows are classed as ‘controlled fittings’ in the Building Regulations and need to meet certain standards when being installed or replaced. You won’t need to apply for building control approval if your windows are fitted by an installer registered with a Competent Person Scheme. Once the job is done they can issue you a certificate of compliance with the building regs. 

WHAT IS A U-VALUE?
The energy performance of a window or door is measured by its U value. In simple terms, if its colder outside than inside, the U value is a measurement of how quickly the heat from the inside leaks through the window. The U value is measured in W/m^2K, which indicates how much heat transfers across the window through 1 m^2 when there is a temperature difference of 1 degree centigrade between inside and outside. The lower the U value, the better the insulation of your window/door unit.
The changes to Part L is an initial reduction in maximum U-Values for windows in new build homes from 1.4 to 1.2 W/m^2K, moving towards a more radical target of 0.8W/ m^2K for new build over the next five years. In existing homes, a reduction from 1.6 to 1.4 W/m^2K in windows and from 1.8 to 1.4 W/m^2K for doors.

WER – WINDOW ENERGY R A T I N G S
Similar to the rainbow labels found on quality household appliances, white goods and lightbulbs, windows that contain the WER rainbow label show they’ve been independently verified by experts for thermal efficiency.
When choosing your new windows and doors, look for the best thermal efficiency as well as aesthetics.

At the Schärpe end of Innovation
Dutemänn are at the forefront of any upgrades, whether it’s for a new build property, extension or refurbishment.
When it comes to insulation, you’re covered. Dutemänn have launched a brand new suite of aluminium windows, called Schärpe, that will consist of a flush casement, fully reversible and tilt and turn options, built around a 90mm system and with a triple glazing option, in order to deliver on the expected U values of 0.8.

Dutemänn’s existing range of bi-fold, sliding and entrance door range, are also being given an overhaul, giving you a complete,‘whole house’ package of Future Homes compliant, aluminium windows and doors.

And while it is widely anticipated that the Future Homes Standard will only apply to the new build sector initially, it is expected that it is only a matter of time before the stricter U values trickle down into the residential market.

While the new regulations are not expected to be applied for another two years, there is already a growing demand for more energy efficient products.

Then there’s the cost of living, with homeowners now prepared to invest for the long term in better performing windows and doors. 

Schärpe will be available very soon with Dutemann currently working on final in-house testing.

If you’re looking for an exceptionally high quality, Future Homes ready product offer, then Schärpe will meet all of your requirements.

Dutemänn can put you in touch with an approved installer near you.

Find out more about our innovative SCHÄRPE collection today!

Dutemann UK Limited Unit R3 Northfleet Industrial Estate Lower Road Northfleet DA11 9SN T 01322 771 213 E sales@dutemann.co.uk
www.dutemann.co.uk