UK Building Regulations have recently updated their Part F legislation specifically looking at trickle vents and appropriate ventilation in homes, the new legislation will take effect from 15th June 2022 in England. Global Windows are embracing this legislation change and we want our customers to know all about window trickle vents. Which is why we’ve created this guide to tell you what trickle vents are and why you need them.
What is a window trickle vent?
Trickle vents are little devices that sit on either the window frame or between the glass and the frame. They’re designed to allow fresh air to naturally circulate through a room whilst letting polluted air out. These can be manually opened and closed depending on your personal ventilation requirements.
What are the benefits of having trickle vents fitted into your windows?
Trickle vents are great for improving the ventilation within your home, as they can allow air to flow even when your window is closed. Proper ventilation is a must in British homes as it will prevent condensation which can sometimes lead to mould growing around the window. Trickle vents can also help remove stale air from lingering around your home which is often the cause for unwanted odours.
When the temperatures rise in the summer, the temptation to leave our windows open all day is very high. But when you’re not home you should always be shutting and securing your windows to prevent potential intruders from entering your home. In fact, leaving your windows open and unlocked can leave your home insurance void preventing you from making a claim if the worst were to happen. This is where having trickle vents are ideal as you can leave your trickle vents open to allow for cool air to flow in whilst having your windows locked and completely secure.
What did the legislation change and how will it affect me?
The major legislation change to trickle vents that you may notice is 1.52 ‘All rooms with external walls should have background ventilators. If a habitable room has no external walls, paragraphs 1.42 to 1.44 should be followed.’ The change simply means that any new windows installed will have to meet ventilation regulations by fitting appropriate background ventilators, more specifically trickle vents.
Previously you only needed to fit trickle vents to your windows if they were replacing existing windows that had them fitted and any new build homes. It now means that any window replacement will require trickle vents to improve their home’s ventilation. At Global Windows, we understand some of our customers may be wary of this legislation change but we see this change as a positive and something that is going to benefit all of our customers.
Upgrade your windows with Global
If you are looking to improve your home by upgrading to modern double-glazed windows, then contact us at Global Windows to get a free, no-obligation quote or for further information on Part F legislation and its effects then you can call us on 0114 288 9595 or 0800 610 1234.
