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MARCH 07 - NEW WINDOWS CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AS WELL AS YOUR HOME!

The law on replacement windows has changed - and it can benefit your health….

Too much moisture in the air in a home can cause health problems such as chest infections and chronic asthma. Damp air is produced by cooking, bathing, washing, even breathing- up to 24 pints of moisture in any one day. Modern methods of building, including how windows are fitted, mean that any gaps in the building are minimized. This is beneficial in terms of lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions, but it does also mean that the indoor air quality can also be reduced by up to 65%. Damp air cannot escape so stays inside, potentially causing condensation and mould if there is no ventilation.

Changes in the law mean replacement windows must have tricklevents fitted if they were on the original windows. Tricklevents ensure a controlled, gentle flow of fresh air into the home to minimize the risk of damp air accumulating within. Even if the original windows had no such vents, Building Regulations state it is ‘good practice’ to fit them.

Additionally, if you have replaced your windows and then sell your home, the solicitor would want confirmation that the new windows comply with ALL aspects of current Building Regulations.

Passivent, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of natural and background ventilation solutions, is aiming to help householders understand the legal requirements of ventilation in replacement windows, and has published an informative guide, “Ventilate Right”, to clarify any issues, and advise on complying with the law. The company supplies a range of trickle ventilators for windows, including a discreet overframe vent that forms part of the window frame so does not impact on the appearance of the new window, an acoustic option for noisy environments, and a energy-saving vent which automatically opens and closes depending on the humidity level in the room without you having to physically open or close it.

Copies of “Ventilate Right” are available free on request from Passivent, either by telephoning 01612 962 7113, emailing info@passivent.com, or download the pdf - 'Ventilate Right'

In addition to a comprehensive range of trickle ventilators, Passivent supplies the Fresh range of through wall ventilators, plus a comprehensive selection of natural and assisted ventilation solutions, with or without acoustic options. Passivent is part of the Building Product Design Group, which specialises in developing innovative yet practical ventilation and roofing products in line with changing market requirements.

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