Tue 3 Jun 2008
First UK windows meet zero carbon challenge
Sheerframe Homogenous Energy Dynamics (HED) have introduced a zero-carbon window. Designed by British window systems company, L.B. Plastics Ltd, this new windowpane aims aims to make stronger, lighter and significantly more thermally efficient windows, which will help housebuilders achieve window U-values of just 0.8W/m2K in their drive towards constructing viable zero carbon homes.Such a low U-value is equivalent to the rating required for Category 5 and 6-star rated dwellings in the Code for Sustainable Homes. Like all Sheerframe systems, broader sustainability issues are also comprehensively addressed - the profile is lead-free in composition and 100% recyclable.
Mike Butterick, Head of new build at L.B. Plastics says: “This new system revolutionises the performance of windows and how we fabricate them. There are multiple benefits for housebuilders, principally the HED system’s ability to achieve an ultra-low U-value, well below the 1.8W/m2K routinely specified.
These new low U-value windows could help builders aiming to improve the thermal performance and therefore the star rating of their homes to improve sales – as they may help lift the overall dwelling SAP rating as the building regulation challenges get tighter and tighter in 2010, 2013 and 2016 on the road to Class 6 performance and zero-carbon homes.
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