Why You Need Double Glazing Compulsory In the UK?
Keeping to building regulations is paramount for any home, and your windows are no exception.
Whether you’re renovating a home, thinking of treating yourself to some new windows, or even a landlord looking to keep your properties to the set standards, double glazing is likely to come into your mind.
However, whilst most homes in the UK have double glazing, you might question if your home/property does actually need them. Take a read with us as we delve a bit deeper into the topic of double glazing being compulsory in the UK.
Is double glazing a necessity?
You’ll be surprised to know that whilst the government does have in place legislation for energy conservation, there are no laws which make single glazing illegal directly.
2002 regulations on buildings
2002 was the year that building regulations were changed on properties, which meant that any replacement windows should only be double glazed. You might still find properties that aren’t up to this standard, but this is by no means breaking the law. Unless your old windows have somehow been replaced for single glazing since 2002, then this does mean the building you’re living in is in violation of the 2002 regulations.
These regulations were set out in order to improve the energy efficiency of homes, as well as making living experience more comfortable. The role out of set standards has also given improved rights to tenants in particular, as they often do not have the direct influence a homeowner has to replace windows as they see fit.
U-value rating for windows
Thermal transmittance (known as the U-value), is the unit of measurement windows must adhere to by building regulations. In layman’s terms, this value is the rate at which heat transfers through a structure, and in this case, a window.
The U-Value that windows must achieve was once 1.6 W/M²K to be in compliance with building standards, but after 15th June 2022, the value was reduced to 1.4 W/M²K so that net zero goals by 2050 can be met.
Our windows and doors at Infil are in compliance with the latest changes, so there is no need to worry when you get your double glazing installed with us!
Minimum energy rating for landlords to meet
An addition to building regulations came in a few years ago, which meant that landlords were directly affected. This change meant that properties must now reach a minimum energy rating of E in order to be livable.
Whilst this could lead to the removal of old windows to newer ones, it can seem a bit unlikely. A landlord will probably find other alternatives to improve energy standards before installing new windows, much in opposition to our ethos. As much as we’d love the government to enforce new window fittings that would save a lot on bills and emissions, this isn’t currently the case unfortunately.
Understand these regulations, especially if you’re renting
For homeowners, use these regulations mentioned above to avoid any penalties for not complying to the set standards and making sure that in years to come if you sell your property, it meets the necessary standards. Be sure that if you have single glazed windows and are thinking of replacing them, that you go for new double-glazed windows.
If you’re renting, it’s great to know that you have a bit more power in influencing your landlord to ensure that they’re not keeping you in the cold on purpose. If you’re in a position to talk to your landlord, highlight the issue to them (particularly with the high energy costs now), as you’ll want the property to be as energy efficient and warm as possible. Failure to comply to the set standards could result in a fine in the thousands of pounds range for your landlord.
You shouldn’t have to suffer in a cold home
At Infil, we don’t think that you should have to go another winter feeling cold inside your home. If you’re in the market to replace your old, drafty single glazing or perhaps need to give your landlord a nudge in the right direction, then get in touch with us on 01787 477231 today.
We can offer new replacement double glazing such as our fantastic flush casement windows that not only do the job, but looks great too. Our products are quality assured and come with the finest in insulation technology, so what are you waiting for?
