As a homeowner, we understand it building regulations can be overwhelming and confusing. At Honest Windows & Doors Ltd, we're here to simplify things and clearly explain everything you need to know. That's why we've created this guide to talk through the relevant sections of the government's building regulations and how they apply to windows and doors.
Energy efficiency
Residential homes are required to be energy efficient as part of building regulations. A large part of this is having the right doors and windows that will help prevent heat loss. Click here to see the requirements set out by the government.
Safety
Safety glazing is effectively glass with additional safety measures that make it less likely to shatter or cause harm when broken. Building regulations require safety glazing is provided to ay glass in what's deemed a critical area.
Ventilation
Building regulations determine how much ventilation windows and doors will need to provide. How much ventilation is needed will depend on the use and size of various rooms. For example, kitchens and bathrooms produce steam which requires higher levels of ventilation.
Fire safety
Two aspects of fire safety are covered by building regulations, namely fire spread and the means to escape in the case of a fire. Regarding fire spread, external doors and windows may require to have fire resistance so as to limit the potential spread of fire between adjacent properties. And as for means of escape, window replacements should allow for the means of escape, which are determined by size, openable area and cill height.
Access to buildings
Lastly, building regulations require that with main entrance doors to buildings constructed since 1999, the threshold remains level. This is to enable people with disabilities or mobility issues for gaining access. Click here for more information from the Government website.