THIS YEAR has shown that climate change is no longer a future concern, with England experiencing an almost unprecedented heatwave in 2026, that is likely to surpass the record high temperatures set just a year earlier in 2025. As periods of extreme heat become more frequent, architects, specifiers and building owners are increasingly looking for products that can protect buildings from high temperatures, whilst maintaining fire safety, durability and comfort.
Good Ventilation can come at a Price
With temperatures this summer often reaching in excess of 35°C, the UK Government has highlighted the importance of ventilation during periods of extreme heat. However, opening windows and doors can allow all manner of insects into buildings - such as flies, wasps and mosquitoes; plus non-native venomous spiders such as the False Widow. Indeed, the UK Health Security Agency has warned of the risk that insect and spider bites pose, particularly in relation to occupants of hospitals and care homes, as well as vulnerable groups such as the elderly and infants.
Innovation to Combat Climate Change
Envirograf® has considerable expertise in producing fireproof ventilation grilles, so naturally saw an opportunity to integrate a new insect defence screen into their latest patent pending TaktaVent range of grilles produced with combating the effects of climate change in mind. The new TaktaVent grilles are available in a variety of configurations and are designed to fit traditional, vertical and casement windows. They make excellent direct replacements for standard ventilation grilles and are suitable for uPVC, metal and timber window frames.
They provide adjustable ventilation ranging from fully open to completely closed, plus have an internal intumescent material which will expand when exposed to flame providing up to 65 minutes fire integrity, causing the grille to seal without the need for any human intervention, preventing the spread of fire and dangerous fumes. Insect mesh is also integral to the grille - keeping unwanted, potentially disease spreading, bugs out.
The Energy Efficient Solution
Unlike fans or environmentally unfriendly air-conditioning units, TaktaVents require no electricity, resulting in reduced running costs and a smaller carbon footprint. The grilles allow the natural flow of air while also preventing ingress of insects. The TaktaVent grilles are available in a range of sizes and finishes, ensuring a discreet and practical solution for a variety of building types including hospitals, schools and commercial properties.