Most people are aware that effective 1st
April 2002 - all replacement window installations in England & Wales are subject
to BUILDING REGULATIONS. This new regulation in particular affects the
minimum levels of insulation that replacement windows must have when fitted in
your home. Levels of insulation are measured as U values. The lower the U value,
the better the insulation level. To get the required level of insulation some
sort of LOW E glass (typically Pilkington K in the UK - although there are other
brands) will have to be used. It may also be necessary for the sealed double
glazed units to be Gas Filled (probably Argon).
There are two ways that you can ensure compliance with
relevant regulations, firstly you may employ a contractor or installer who is
registered under the FENSA self-certification scheme. This contractor will be
approved to carry out the work in accordance with relevant regulations without
inspection by the council and will inform FENSA when installation has been
completed. Random inspections of completed work are carried out.
If you are not using a FENSA registered contractor or if you're doing the work
yourself (DIY) then you will need to arrange building regulation approval
yourself. Contact the building control department at you local council reference
this.