Key Considerations When Procuring Contract Windows

When managing a building project, the procurement of contract windows is a critical decision that impacts the overall quality, performance, and compliance of the finished properties. From meeting stringent UK standards and legal requirements to ensuring top-notch thermal performance and security, there are several important factors to consider. Of course, the service and expertise of the supplier play a vital role in the successful execution of the project.

Understanding UK Standards and Legal Requirements

When selecting windows for a development, it is crucial to ensure that they comply with relevant UK standards and legal requirements. Key standards to consider include:

Part L of the Building Regulations

Part L sets the energy efficiency standards for new buildings and renovations. Windows must meet specific U-value requirements to ensure minimal heat loss and adequate thermal performance (1.2 W/m2k for new builds and 1.4 W/m2k for existing properties). It is essential to choose windows that meet or exceed these standards to achieve energy efficiency and sustainability goals.

All windows supplied by Fenea meet these requirements and where the frame or window type cannot achieve a U value of 1.2 W/m2k with double glazing, we can supply triple glazing that can get as low as 0.8 W/m2k depending on the specification. We will always work with you to achieve the require U value and glazing specification at the best possible cost.

PAS 24 Security Standards

PAS 24 is a security standard that specifies the requirements for enhanced security performance of windows and doors and is mandatory on new build properties. Using windows that comply with PAS 24 ensures that they offer robust protection against forced entry, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

Document Q Compliance

Document Q of the Building Regulations applies to new builds and specifies the security standards for windows and doors in dwellings. Ensuring compliance with Document Q is essential for meeting legal requirements and safeguarding the security of the property.

Acoustic Glazing

Acoustic glazing is designed to significantly reduce external noise, meaning it is often specified for properties in high-traffic areas, near railways, airports, or busy urban environments. By using specialised glass configurations and sound-dampening techniques, acoustic windows help create a quieter, more comfortable indoor space.

Acoustic glazing minimises noise transmission through a combination of:

• Laminated Glass – Features an acoustic interlayer that absorbs and disperses sound waves.
• Asymmetric Pane Thicknesses – Varying glass thicknesses reduce sound resonance across different frequencies.
• Increased Air Gap – A wider spacer between glass panes disrupts sound waves, improving insulation.
• High-Performance Seals – Special perimeter seals prevent noise leakage through window frames.

By integrating these technologies, acoustic glazing can reduce noise levels by up to 50dB, depending on the glass specification. Fenea supply and install high-performance acoustic glazing solutions tailored to contract and trade projects, always designed to achieve the correct glass specification to meet your acoustic glazing report at the lowest possible cost.

Thermal Performance and Energy Efficiency

The thermal performance of windows is a critical consideration for any house building project. High-quality windows contribute to the overall energy efficiency of the building, reducing heating and cooling costs and enhancing occupant comfort.

U-Values and Energy Ratings

The U-value measures the rate of heat transfer through a window, with lower U-values indicating better thermal performance. It is important to select windows with low U-values to minimize heat loss. Additionally, windows may have energy ratings (A++ to G), with A++ being the most efficient. Opting for higher-rated windows ensures superior energy efficiency.

Part F Ventilation

Habitable rooms require a minimum of 8000mm2 ventilation under Part F regulations, most commonly achieved by incorporating trickle vents into the window frame. This can be done in a variety of ways including through the sash, through the head of the frame, or vented through an additional head packer on top of the window frame. We will work with you to choose the best option aesthetically, and suitably in accordance with the external building finishes. Buildings that have mechanical ventilation will not require trickle vents within the windows.

Double and Triple Glazing

Double and triple glazing significantly improve the thermal performance of windows. These types of glazing consist of two or three panes of glass with insulating gas between them, reducing heat transfer and enhancing energy efficiency. Consider the specific climate and energy goals of the project when choosing between double and triple glazing.

Double glazing generally achieves a 1.4 U value, although different specifications of double glazing can get to a 1.2 U value depending on the frame/window type. Triple glazing achieves a 1.1 U value, and can achieve U values as low as 0.8 W/m2k depending on the specification. Updated building regulations around part L require 1.2 U values for windows, so triple glazing is becoming a lot more common where double glazing cannot achieve the required specification.

Low-E Coatings

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are applied to the glass to reduce heat transfer and improve thermal performance. These coatings reflect infrared heat while allowing visible light to pass through, enhancing energy efficiency without compromising natural light. All our windows supplied for domestic properties have Low-E coatings. Our commercial specification doors & screens do not as standard as Low-E is not a requirement for those types of buildings, but we can supply Low-E glazing if your specification requires it.

Security Considerations

Ensuring the security of the windows is paramount for any house building project. Windows must provide adequate protection against potential intruders while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality. Some projects require Secured by Design certification, which we can achieve within our PAS24 products.

Secured by Design (SBD) is a UK police initiative aimed at improving the security of buildings by incorporating crime prevention measures into design and construction. It ensures that doors, windows, and other security products meet strict performance standards to resist forced entry, reducing the risk of burglary and criminal damage.

The standard for Secured by Design includes:

• • PAS 24 Certification – All SBD-approved windows and doors must be tested to PAS 24, a rigorous security standard for resistance against attacks.
  • Enhanced Locking Systems – Includes multi-point locks, reinforced hinges, and key-operated systems for maximum protection.
  • Laminated or Toughened Glass – Reduces the risk of break-ins through glass breakage.
  • Robust Frame Construction – uPVC, aluminium, and timber frames are designed to withstand forced entry attempts.
  • Secure Ventilation Features – Allows for airflow without compromising security.

Multi-Point Locking Systems

Windows with multi-point locking systems offer enhanced security by engaging multiple locking points along the frame. This makes it more difficult for intruders to force the window open, providing an added layer of protection.

Impact-Resistant Glass

Selecting windows with impact-resistant glass, such as laminated or toughened glass, enhances security by making the glass less likely to break upon impact. This is especially important for ground-floor windows and windows in vulnerable areas.

Choosing A Contract Windows Supplier

The service and expertise of your windows supplier are critical factors that can significantly affect the success of the project. Choosing a reliable and experienced supplier ensures that the windows are installed correctly, on time and perform as expected.

Expert Project Management

A supplier like Fenea, with expert project management skills, will handle all aspects of the window procurement process, from initial surveys and scheduling to on-site coordination. This ensures that the project is delivered on time and within budget, with minimal disruptions.

Skilled Installation Teams

The quality of the window installation is just as important as the quality of the windows themselves. Fenea’s experienced and skilled installation teams ensure that the windows are fitted correctly, following strict quality control standards for airtight seals and long-lasting performance. This minimises hassle for you and the time required for snagging at the end of the project.

All Fenea installers hold a qualified Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, with some of our most experienced fitters holding a Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) qualification for sites that require it.

Competitive Trade Pricing

Cost-effective solutions are essential for maintaining budget constraints without compromising quality. As a fabricator ourselves, Fenea give you ultra-competitive trade pricing tailored to the specific needs of residential developments, ensuring value for money.

Compliance and Certification

Ensuring that the contractor’s products and services meet or exceed industry regulations is vital. Look for suppliers who provide compliance and certification for Part L, PAS 24, and Document Q standards, along with accreditation such as SSIP Approval. Check what guarantees the supplier offers too – Fenea provide a 10 year guarantee against manufacturing defects and 5 years on glass units.

Expert Advice & Value Engineering

A supplier with a highly experienced team can provide valuable advice on the right solutions for your project. From technical expertise and problem solving to cost-saving advice, our insights can help optimise the performance of the windows and the efficiency of your project.

Unlike other suppliers, we will offer our expert advice to save costs for the customer, without diverging from the specification too much. We will break down the specification and offer suggestions to save on cost, instead of just following an architect’s standardised specification. Things like changing a window frame to be white on the inside instead of grey on both sides can save a lot of money; or changing from a special RAL colour to a similar colour but a standard RAL can save on set up charges and ‘special’ uplifts. We’ll meet with you to discuss this in detail or provide samples if required.

Get a quote from Fenea today and see how we can save you money & make life easier.