Epwin Window Systems has published two new practical guides to help customers understand the forthcoming Future Homes Standard and what the changes will mean for the specification and thermal performance of windows and doors.
The new guides cover Epwin Window Systems’ PVC-U brands – Profile 22, Spectus and PatioMaster – alongside a separate guide for Stellar Aluminium, giving customers clear, accessible information on the changes to Building Regulations and the implications for the fenestration sector.
The Future Homes Standard sets out the intention that all new-build homes are built with low-carbon heating and high levels of energy efficiency. For fenestration, the key changes are within Approved Document L (Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions) Volume 1: Dwellings and include changes to the way U values are calculated, building control notification and how the regulations are enforced.
Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The Future Homes Standard represents an important change for the industry and, understandably, customers have questions about what it will mean for their businesses.”
He added: “As a systems company, our role goes beyond developing products that meet changing regulatory requirements. It is also about giving our customers the information and support they need to understand those changes and prepare for them. These two guides bring the key information together in a clear and straightforward format.”
One of the most significant changes for the fenestration industry concerns how the thermal performance of windows and doors in new-build homes will be calculated.
Under the new regulations, the U value of a window or door will need to reflect its exact size and configuration, rather than being based on a standard window configuration. This means elements including cills and thresholds, frame extenders, dummy sashes, dummy transoms and mullions, decorative glazing bars and non-load-bearing coupling components will need to be incorporated into the calculation where applicable.
Gerald commented: “This is a significant change because the thermal calculation will need to reflect the window or door that is actually being supplied. The different elements within a product configuration will therefore become increasingly important when assessing its overall performance. Our guides explain these changes in practical terms so customers can start understanding what they need to consider well ahead of implementation.”
The new regulations come into force on 24 March 2027, with transitional arrangements in place, while those relating to higher-risk buildings take effect from 24 September 2027.
The guides also cover requirements for replacement windows and doors in existing homes, building control notification and enforcement, giving customers a useful overview of the key changes they need to understand.
Both guides are available to download now via the company’s Connect portal.
