A Review of Window Technologies and the Code for Sustainable Homes in the UK

This paper gives an overview of the impact of the Code for Sustainable Homes in terms of future requirements and areas of future research for windows‟ performance and investigates new window technologies which could help to meet these requirements. Windows are extremely useful multi-function devices which provide views, ventilation, passive solar gain, a means of escape, security and daylight gain. However, they can have a negative impact on a home's energy efficiency, particularly when the window area is large, and play a significant role in determining the heating and cooling load of a building. It has been estimated that around 47% of the heat lost from building envelop occurs through windows. The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) label provides the only reliable way to determine windows‟ properties and to compare window technologies and products, which could help meet the Code levels. Results of the investigation shows that, overall novel windows technologies such as PV/Conservatories, low-e and solar control low-e coatings, and PV/Sunspace have potential for significant energy saving; however the window technologies to meet the highest standards of the Code for Sustainable Homes, Code Level 6, are to be high insulated having BFRC rating A or better.