Window specifiers in the local authority sector are being urged to pay close attention to the latest information regarding the Future Homes Standard as the first changes officially come into force on 15 June 2022.

Technical experts at the leading polymer window systems manufacturer, REHAU have aired concern that following several years of fluctuating information and debate around the topic, architects and specifiers could be left with multiple sources of conflicting advice.

Mark Gajda is head of technical services and certification at the systems company and has been leading a project to ensure its high-performance uPVC continues to exceed all relevant Building Regulations. He says:

“The Future Homes Standard is of course not new. It has been high on the news agenda for a number of years now, and it’s this level of content and debate around it that could risk people being served the wrong information.”

In response, Mark and his team have developed a series of four fact sheets aimed at architects, specifiers, and surveyors which aim to provide a brief introduction to the changes, projected timeline, and targets. Two of which cover energy efficiency requirements under Part L for new build and refurb projects, and the other two address ventilation standards through Part F for the same.

The content series comes as part of REHAU’s wider ‘In The Frame’ initiative which aims to help specifiers navigate their way through the complex landscape of building regulations, technical specifications, and sustainability.

Steve Tonkiss, head of sales south at REHAU Windows, comments:

“With growing pressure on developers to select products capable of maximising the performance of the buildings they work on; windows are now being looked to for those marginal gains. The REHAU TOTAL70 window and door system has long exceeded the relevant Building Regulations. As such, it can be specified for the highest thermal-performing new-build projects alongside the company’s GENEO tilt-turn system, which is a fully certified window and door system for PassivHaus installations.”

REHAU is the only uPVC systems company with a national commercial sales team of eight, backed by a wider technical support team who work closely with customers on detailed window specifications for a range of large-scale residential and commercial projects.

The experts are also urging specifiers to think beyond the changing efficiency and ventilation standards. Mark continues:

“It’s important that specifiers realise that just because you change one thing in line with regulations, it may impact another – such as acoustics, weather performance and the like. This is an area we are getting a lot of questions on so would encourage anyone who is unsure to get in touch and we will be happy to help advise.”

For more information and to download the free fact sheets, click here.