Pro Installer September 2019 - Issue 78 | Page 25

SEPTEMBER 2019 | 25 Installer Support Installer Support is sponsored by Kayflow SETTING THE RIGHT STANDARDS Standards and regulations are a fundamental part of our daily lives. They provide organisations, employees and the general public with an understanding of what is acceptable and can help facilitate everything from introducing new technologies to ensuring that components supplied from different manufacturers are mutually compatible worldwide. Here, Nick Cowley, manag- ing director of PVCu windows and doors manufacturer Euramax, explains more about fenestration industry standards; and the impor- tant role they play both during and after installation, as well as providing contractors and install- ers with safety expectations… Installer regulations In April 2002, the UK govern- ment authorised the creation of the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA), which monitors building regulation compliance and aims to improve window and door replacement standards across the UK. The FENSA certificate is vital when selling a home. It offers homeowners proof that the window and door installation is complaint with industry standards, is energy efficient and registered with the local council. In fact, since it was founded, over 13 mil- lion certificates have been issued, meaning that 50 per cent of all UK homes are covered by FENSA standards. However, this also means that 50 per cent are not, but this doesn’t mean safety goes out the metaphorical window. Homeown- ers can apply for approval from the relevant Building Control Body, which will check the replacement windows and doors and issue a compliance certifi- cate. British Standards Windows and doors can be subject to different standards depending on their characteristics and the materials they’re made of. For instance, BS EN 12608:2003 provides the standards for PVCu windows and doors, while BS 8529:210 specifies the standards for composite doors. Furthermore, the hardware used on fenestration, from levers and handles to locking assem- blies, is subject to relevant British Standards. Therefore, selecting a supplier that can provide products to these industry requirements is vital for specifiers, contractors and installers alike. The British Standards Institution (BSI), appointed by the UK Gov- ernment as the National Standards Body, is responsible for improving the quality and safety of products using the British Standards. Man- ufacturers and service providers that meet these standards can receive a BSI Kitemark, which provides an easily recognisable indication of quality and safety standards. BSI claims that “an independ- ent survey of 1,000 UK adults in March 2015 showed that almost two-thirds of consumers believe the Kitemark is an indication of quality and associate it with prod- ucts that are tried and tested.” Energy conservation However, it is not just safety that is regulated across the fenes- tration industry through standards and regulations. With the UK Gov- ernment looking to reduce green- house emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, and over 40 per cent of carbon emissions stemming from homes or non-domestic buildings, a building’s energy efficiency must be improved from top to bottom. Despite new dwellings being optimised for energy efficiency, whether it’s by using triple glaz- ing, cavity wall and loft insulation or even solar power, the need for adequate ventilation for properties is paramount. As a result, the Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide, which provides compliance standards for the installation of building services in new and ex- isting non-domestic buildings, was amended to provide improved standards across ventilation (Part F) and conservation of fuel and power (Part L). As a result, many PVCu windows now include an enhanced trickle ventilation system that allows fresh air to circulate, even when the window is closed, meaning that even the most efficient products still pro- vide fresh air year-round. Founded in 1997, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) is the UK’s leading rating council for verifying energy performance of windows and doors. The grading system provides assurance that the product in question has been independently verified by building physics experts and offers installers and homeowners the evidence to select the best product for their needs. The BFRC ratings calculate a score that considers the size of the product, building occupancy and climate conditions. Products with an energy rating of zero or higher are energy positive and are ac- credited with A to A++ ratings, de- pending on the final score. When selecting a supplier that you can trust to provide energy efficient products, it is vital to look into the BFRC rating of the products they supply. Further regulations are also in effect regarding the use of safety glazing in glazed doors, the resistance from fire and ensur- ing a means of escape, which is particularly important for building extensions or existing dwelling renovations. Building strong relationships with reliable suppliers will always provide you, and your customer, with the reassurance, efficien- cy and safety everyone desires. So, whether you’re a specifier, independent contractor or home renovator, choose a supplier that knows their standards inside out. www.euramax.co.uk