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Windows - Building Regulations And Planning Permissions Guide
Always remember that if you live in a listed building or in an place classified as a conservation area then you might have to seek planning permission for most types of home improvement project.You should seek advice from your local planning office if this is the case.
Planning Permission Regarding Windows (Installations and Glazing)
You should not usually have to seek planning permission if you are simply fitting replacement windows. This includes replacement double glazing, replacement glazing and glazed patio doors, however with regards to replacement glazing ensure you comply with building regulations which came into force 1st April 2002.Repairs to existing glazed windows, doubled glazed units or double glazed windows are normally exempt from planning permission.
Windows And Glazing - Building Regulations
Ventilation - Windows
Windows which are fitted in bathrooms, kitchens or other areas in which steam is normally produced must have adequate ventilation, usually in the form of electric ventilatorsSafety - Windows - Building Regulations
Replacement Glazing
Since legislation came into force 1st April 2002 any replacement glazing must comply with building regulations which relate to energy efficiency, ventilation, heat and safety issues.In particular when fitting glazing within window areas which come below 800mm from floor level, 300mm from a door or a glazed door area up to 1500mm from the floor, you must fit only safety standards glazing.
Other safety aspects must be considered when replacing windows or fitting new windows, including the important matter of means of escape. Window openings when fitting replacement windows must be at least the minimum size required for safe means of escape.
If the original windows were oversized it is considered acceptable to reduce the size of the opening for the new replacement window as long as it complies with safe means of escape window size requirements.
If replacing windows above ground floor level it is recommended that non-escape windows be replaced with windows which are considered suitable escape windows with sufficient opening to act as a means of escape and of course in line with minimum window size requirements of not less than 450mm in both height and width.
Energy Efficiency and Windows
Windows which are installed should be compliant with building regulations in regards to thermal heat loss as all dwellings are now required to be as energy efficient as possible.Thermal heat loss is measured by something which is known at the U-value. Defined, the U-value is the measure of the rate at which heat is lost through glass or other materials.
The aim when installing windows is to achieve the lowest possible u-value, (i.e - the least amount of heat lost through the windows as possible). U-Values For Glass Single glazing - 5.0 U-value Double glazing - 3.0 U-value Triple glazing - 2.2 u-value Double glazing with low e-coating - 1.7 u-value Double glazing with low e-coating and argon filled 1.3 u-value Triple glazing with multiple low e-coatings and xenon filled 0.4 u-value In addition to being compliant with energy window regulations, the lower the u-value on your home's glazing, the lower your heating bills should become as an added advantage.