In 2025, the Future Homes Standard (FHS) will become mandatory, with the ambition that new homes will produce 75 – 80% less carbon emissions than those built under current regulations. It is anticipated that the standard window in a new build will be required to have a U-Value of 0.80 W/ m2K (note the two decimal places), this will be confirmed after the consultation due to take place later this spring. Many VEKA and HALO casement systems can already meet this value, and VEKA is working hard behind the scenes to understand the implications of various imminent consultations, to ensure that they offer a suitable solution. For example, a consultation on Part Q is on the horizon, which potentially means that easily accessible windows and doors may be required to contain laminate glass, which will ultimately have an effect the U-Value of a finished product.
With Building Regulations set to change again in 2025, VEKA wants to reassure customers that they are focused on preparing suitable solutions that will be effective across all market sectors, are fabricator friendly, and will meet all required legislation.
VEKA Technical Director Paul Kennington said, “We need to fully understand what the consultations of this year will bring. With results due in the spring, our team will be working hard to find fabricator-friendly solutions to the new legislation. We will deliver this in a traditional 70mm frame so that our customers can offer the same products to both the new build and replacement markets and there will be no requirement for new machinery.”
There are also practicalities to consider, it is true that the climate is getting warmer. The UK is experiencing hotter summers, which means that dark colors could be susceptible to thermal movement. Even the smallest change will make a difference to a U-Value. More storms during winter months also mean that reinforcement is essential.
Paul continued, “We are taking time to ensure that we get this right. Our aim is to minimise the impact of these changes for our customers by offering hassle-free solutions.”
Article republished, original article source: https://vekauk.com/vekas-vision-for-2025/