FOCUS FEATURE: WINDOWS FEATURE 45 TOP GLASS PERFORMANCE


Paul Higgins of Tuff X explores how glazing has evolved into a critical element in buildings’ energy performance, and off ers a practical guide to help specifi ers achieve ‘futureproofed’ glazing solutions.


W


ith the Future Homes Standard (FHS) set to take effect soon, housebuilders face increasing


pressure to adopt low-carbon technologies and improve energy effi ciency across developments. The goal; new homes that produce 75-80% fewer carbon emissions than those built under previous regulations.


Delivering this target requires a fundamental shift in how materials are specifi ed To achieve it, glaing, which has long been a primarily aesthetic feature, has now become vital in boosting thermal performance, ensuring occupant comfort, and, importantly, reducing carbon output.


Another industry challenge is Part O of the Building Regulations, which now mandates that new homes mitigate overheating through innovative design strategies, including maximising passive cooling and air fl ow laing specifi cation is central to this, as too much solar gain can result in uncomfortable internal conditions, but too little natural light can compromise well-being.


dvanced glaing technologies such as solar control and low-emissivity (Low-E) glass can help strike this balance. These coatings reduce unwanted solar gain while allowing high levels of natural daylight. In turn, this helps indoor environments stay cooler in summer and is especially useful in properties with large, glaed areas, such as bi-fold doors or full-height windows.


SUSTAINABLE GLASS FOR A LOW-CARBON FUTURE


Low-carbon glass, produced using less energy and higher recycled content, is an exciting innovation that supports better operational effi ciency while reducing a property’s embodied carbon footprint. Offering high thermal performance, the improved insulation properties help reduce heat loss during winter and solar gain in summer, reducing the need for mechanical heating or cooling. s the fi rst manufacturer to introduce low-carbon glass to the market, TuffX developed a product containing 64%


GLAZING, WHICH HAS LONG BEEN A PRIMARILY AESTHETIC FEATURE, HAS NOW BECOME VITAL IN BOOSTING THERMAL PERFORMANCE


recycled content and made using renewable electricity. The result is a product with a 42% lower carbon footprint than standard fl oat glass without compromising clarity or aesthetics This is a simple specifi cation choice with signifi cant long-term benefi ts for housebuilders seeking practical ways to lower embodied carbon without overhauling structural design.


DOUBLE-DUTY HEATED GLASS One of the most compelling future- proof glaing solutions is heated glass, which combines thermal comfort with clear views and space-saving potential. Integrated within bi-fold doors or large windows, this invisible technology provides primary heat through radiant


energy while maintaining all the benefi ts of conventional glaing


Heated glass comprises a sealed unit with an intelligent, electrically conductive coating that radiates heat. With no visible elements, the glaing appears no different from standard units. Yet it performs like a radiator, reaching surface temperatures of 35-40°C and controlled via a wall-mounted thermostat. This frees up interior wall space, enabling more fl eible room layouts – ideal for open-plan extensions and garden-facing living spaces where radiator placement can be limiting. Heated glass also reduces condensation, which helps maintain clear views and supports healthier indoor air quality by preventing the growth of mould and


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