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Timber Windows
James Spraget

Timber Windows – Fire escape measurements.

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What are the requirements for my Timber Windows to be fire escapes?

Timber Windows

 

General criteria for egress Timber Windows:

• Width and Height of Timber Window – Either of these are not to be any less than 450mm
• A Clear Openable Area – No less than 0.33m²
• Sill height – The bottom of the openable area should be no more than 1100mm above the floor area.
Only one window per room is Generally required, but you should refer to the approved document B to ensure you are compliant with building regulations.

Here at Timber Windows Direct we have made this simple for you.

The Minimum width and height for our sash windows to obtain a clear openable area of 0.33m2 are as follows}

Timber Sash window on Weights will need to be 650mmW x 1250mmH or greater.
Timber Sash window on Springs will need to be 580mmW x 1215mmH or greater.

IMPORTANT: IT IS NOT ENOUGH TO HAVE A WINDOW WITH DIMENTIONS OF 450mm X 450mm AS THE CLEAR OPENABLE AREA MUST BE NO LESS THAN 0.33SQM

Why not request a quote for Timber Sash windows at http://www.timberwindows-direct.co.uk

Timber Windows
James Spraget

Timber Windows and FENSA Certificates

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Timber Windows and FENSA Certificates.

When do you need a FENSA certificate?

We often get asked by our customers if we can supply a FENSA certificate when supplying Timber Windows.

There seems to be some confusion over what FENSA actually is, plus how it is relevant to works being carried out in your home.

Even with a cursory glance at the FENSA website, It states that, FENSA is a government authorised Competent Persons Scheme for the replacement of windows and doors in England and Wales.

I will clear up any confusion…….. Enabling those purchasing Timber Windows to understand when a FENSA certificate is required.

What FENSA actually is?

FENSA stands for, The ‘Fenestration Self-Assessment scheme’ which has been set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). As a means to self-certify compliance under Building Regulations, without the need for a separate assessment from Building Control.

If your installer is not registered with FENSA. All works that include replacing windows and doors will require you to get a certificate from Local Authority Building Control instead.

When does FENSA apply to your Timber Windows?

FENSA does not apply to conservatories, porches, commercial premises, new build properties or extensions.

In all of these instances you are required to go through the Local Authority Building Control process.

So, in summary ……….

If the Timber window or door is a new addition to your property, or the building itself forms part of an extension, or is a complete new build, then FENSA does not apply and you will require approval from Building Control.

If you are replacing an existing window, you can use a FENSA approved installer or alternatively apply for full Local Authority Building Control approval.

Please note that the homeowner is ultimately responsible for ensuring that their window or door installation complies with these standards and regulations.

Visit Toughened safety glazing – Building Regulations for information regarding building regulations.

 

Low profile trickle vents on Timber Sash Windows
James Spraget

Trickle Vent or no Trickle Vent?

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Do we add a Trickle Vent that is the question?

The use of a Trickle Vent is often pondered over for a considerable period of time. Some people consider them an addition to a window that is not astetically pleasing but it may be essential!

Here at Timber Windows Direct we manufacture our windows with the lowest profile vents possible to minimise the look of the trickle vent. They are finished flush with the window as opposed to competitor versions which stick out as a whole unit.

The trickle does have a very practical reasoning behind though and this article in the Telegraph sums that reasoning up nicely…

Ventilation

Windows and doors provide ventilation to rooms within a dwelling and rules apply to how much ventilation is needed. The type and extent of ventilation will be dependent on the use and size of the room.

For example, rooms where steam will be produced (kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms etc) should be provided with higher levels of ventilation (normally mechanical fans and windows) than other rooms where suitably sized window openings and background (“trickle”) ventilators may suffice.

Still can’t decide?

Get in touch and we will endeavor to help you make a choice.

Timber Casement Windows using Toughened Safety Glazing
James Spraget

Toughened safety glazing – Building Regulations

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Toughened Safety Glazing and Building Regulations

Toughened Safety Glazing is a very important factor in modern building regulations. You will need to take this into consideration when replacing your Timber Windows and Doors. You will also need to ensure you are complying with relevant regulations as Dwellings are required to be energy efficient.

Energy Efficiency

A method of achieving greater energy efficiency is to take steps to reduce the amount of heat that is lost through the glazing in both Timber windows and doors.

If you are to install windows and doors you should be aware that they need to comply with the requirements of the Building Regulations in relation to the amount of heat that can to pass through the glass and framework, which is measured as a U-Value.  This U-value should not be exceeded.

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increase property value with Traditional Timber Sash Windows
James Spraget

Increase property value with Timber Windows

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Increase property value with Timber Windows

It’s a fact! Timber Windows are proven to increase property value and the cost of this refurbishment is surprisingly lower than you would expect!

If you purchase your Timber windows from a supplier and then hire a carpenter or window fitter to install them the price of the total refurbishment would be lower than if you requested a large national windows company to supply and fit them for you.

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