Recent changes to building regulations have thrown window trickle vents into the spotlight. It’s now very common that if you’re looking to replace your windows or you’re carrying out some research before upgrading your windows you’ll come across trickle vents but you may not know what these are or what they do which is why we’ve created this informative blog and video.
What are window trickle vents?
Trickle vents are small devices fitted either to the window frame or between the glass and the frame. The vents are designed to be opened and closed by the homeowner to allow for fresh air to circulate through the home, while letting polluted air out.
How did the recent legislation changes affect window trickle vents?
In the past, building regulations stated that you only need to have trickle vents fitted to your windows if the windows they were replacing already have trickle vents fitted. All new build homes also required trickle vents to be fitted to each of the windows. These can include windows in Essex such as sash windows or casement windows.
The new legislation comes into place on the 15th of June 2022, it is Part F, 1.52 which refers to trickle vents and may affect you. ‘All rooms with external walls should have background ventilators. If a habitable room has no external walls, paragraphs 1.42 to 1.44 should be followed.’ This change means that any windows installed after this date need to meet ventilation regulations by fitting appropriate background ventilators, specifically trickle vents.
What are the benefits of window trickle vents?
Trickle vents have a number of benefits so having them fitted to your window is certainly not a bad thing. In the summer it can be very tempting to open up all of your windows and leave them that way all day to allow fresh air to flow through your home. However, when you leave your home you should always be fully closing and securing your windows to prevent would-be intruders from entering your home. (Leaving your windows open whilst you’re not home can completely void your home insurance.) When you have trickle vents fitted you’re able to leave these vents open to allow for cool air to continue flowing through your home while your windows are locked.
Poor ventilation in your home can lead to condensation which can also cause mould to develop around your windows. Mould can be difficult to remove once it has appeared, so your best option is to remove the risk of mould even developing. Proper ventilation from trickle vents will remove the risk of condensation.
Trickle vents will also remove stale air from hanging around your home which prevents the build-up of unwanted odours.
Replacement windows expertly installed by Halstead Glass
If you’re looking for more information about trickle vents and the changes in building regulations please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our expert team. If you’re looking to complete a home improvement project in the near future, the Halstead Glass team will be more than happy to assist you, Get a Free Quote.