BM TRADA warns window manufacturers over energy ratings

BM TRADA has warned that timber window manufacturers who have not yet targeted a British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) rating could struggle if minimum “C” window energy ratings are adopted in the 2010 revision of Part L.

BM TRADA product certification manager Simon Beer said gas-filled insulated glass units were likely to be required to achieve a C rating as standard on current UK window designs.

“Unlike their PVCu or aluminium counterparts, timber window manufacturers cannot rely on systems suppliers,” said Mr Beer. “They will have to revisit their designs to produce windows able to achieve a C rating or better, without any assistance from a profile manufacturer.”

BM TRADA, which is an independent agency for the BFRC, has identified that the companies able to achieve top energy ratings are those that have invested in research and product development.