There is a big challenge in the UK at the moment to build more housing while also working towards achieving net zero carbon goals. It could mean a very bright future for homes, ensuring they are built to a high standard. However, it may mean some attractive features become very rare. We want to have a closer look here. Then, if you want to arrange sash window restoration in Northumberland, you can rely on David Humble.
Future Homes Standard
One of the most significant things is we’ll soon have the FHS to demand higher standards for new homes. There will be some crucial requirements, including stricter demands for windows on new builds, more efficient building fabrics, low carbon tech for heating and hot water, and energy efficient ventilation.
The most important thing here is fabric efficiency and ensuring properties are airtight. This will aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of homes. However, it will cause issues for sash windows. They have gaps around the sashes to allow them to open and close. As a result, you can’t make them as airtight. It may deter people from being able to choose them for new builds if they can’t obtain a tight enough seal.
The FHS will also require stricter U-values for windows, ensuring they have a lower rate of heat transmittance. Achieving it with sash windows may mean they must have triple glazing or more. It may not be feasible though. The main issue is it could make the sashes too heavy and too thick to open and close.
Is it the end for sash windows?
As the top provider of sash window restoration in Northumberland, we love helping clients retain these amazing windows. However, the FHS does mean there is a real risk we won’t see them on many new builds in the future.
There may be a way to still get them on properties though. One option may be to take an average of the U-values of all windows in the property. That way, you could offset having one or two feature sashes and higher U-value windows elsewhere. The strategy may be viable for many developments, but the final version of the FHS may remove the ability to do this kind of trade-off.
The most important thing to keep in mind is the FHS will only apply to new builds from 2025 onwards. If you have an existing property, sash windows will still be an option. Plus, if you have them already, you won’t need to worry about replacing them.
However, it is also important to keep an eye on plans for retrofitting. Improving the current building stock will be vital to achieving net zero carbon. Many councils are already investing to upgrade their housing, including more energy efficient doors and windows. There are likely to be grants and other things to encourage property owners to upgrade.
Talk to us about sash window restoration in Northumberland
David Humble is the perfect choice if you want to restore sash windows and give them a lovely upgrade. We have highly skilled, knowledgeable craftsmen. As a result, we can tackle almost any problem. Crucially, we can use a perimeter sealing system to improve the airtightness and energy efficiency.
You can contact us if you want to arrange sash window restoration in Northumberland. We’re happy to provide quotes for any jobs, and can give you our recommendations too.