In part two of our Quickslide series, Ade takes you through some of the essential terminology to ensure that when you buy windows and doors for your next project, you won’t be baffled by the BS.
Document O (Overheating)
Driven by the fears surrounding climate change, Document O of the Building Regulations in England and Wales focuses on overheating mitigation in new residential buildings. Building designers must conduct an overheating risk assessment that focuses on design strategies for reducing overheating, such as orientation, window size, shading, and ventilation in moderate-risk and low-rise buildings.
Passive measures such as natural ventilation, shading devices, optimised window placement, and external blinds or shutters are favoured to reduce reliance on air conditioning. Builders (as well as the building designers) must provide evidence of compliance through documented assessments and calculations.
Egress Window
A window that is large enough and easy to open for emergency escape or rescue. These windows are typically required in bedrooms and basements. The use of egress windows is defined by the Building Regulations.
Expansion Foam
A foam material that expands upon application, used to fill gaps around windows and doors during installation to improve insulation and reduce air infiltration.
Flush Sash
The flush sash is of one of the latest window styles to hit the UK. In a flush sash window, the sash is aligned flush with the surface of the window frame when it is closed.
Gasket
In essence, a gasket plays a crucial role in preventing air drafts, water leaks, and moisture penetration, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort. But the materials used and, more importantly, the way they are applied, has changed significantly, such as the new quick bead development that features an integrated gasket that is simply tapped in on site.
Horns
Horns are used for their decorative appeal, giving windows (particularly sash windows) an authentic, historical look. To emphasise authenticity, we only offer run-through sash horns. Other alternatives such as plant-on horns and mock-sash horns are available. Homeowners seeking these details will have done their research. Now you will know what they are talking about and can nod sagely.
IGU – Insulated Glass Unit
A pre-assembled unit consisting of two or more glass panes separated by spacers and sealed to create an insulated airspace, improving thermal performance. This crucial element is the difference between Building Regs compliance at least, but also the highest performance in terms of insulation, security and noise control.
Integral Blinds
Blinds that are sealed within the glass panes of an IGU, offering a maintenance-free solution for privacy and light control.
Jack (Bay Window Support)
A temporary, adjustable support used to hold and align a bay window during installation, ensuring it remains level and properly positioned.
K-value
A measure of thermal conductivity. In the context of glazing, it refers to the rate at which heat passes through a material. Lower K-values indicate better insulation. In 2001 the K-value for windows and doors was completely replaced by the term “u-value”. You may, however, still hear the term K-value from time to time.
Low E
Low E (Low Emissivity) glass is a type of glass designed to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through the glass. A thin, invisible layer deposited during manufacture on the surface of the glass reflects infrared energy while allowing visible light to pass through.
Low Threshold
Used in entryways, patio doors, and internal doorways for enhanced accessibility and ease of movement, the low threshold has a reduced height, designed to minimize the step or barrier between the interior and exterior surfaces. Whilst it is often used for safety and to provide better access for the disabled, for example, aesthetically it provides a cleaner, more seamless transition between spaces.
Mitre Welds
A mitre weld involves welding two pieces of metal together at an angle, typically 45-degrees, to form a corner or joint. Often manufacturers offer the 45-degree mitre option or a 90-degree mechanically jointed option.
Mullion
A mullion is a vertical or horizontal structural element that divides and supports sections of a window, door, or screen. It is typically used in larger window systems to break up the glass into smaller panes or panels and to provide structural support.
For replacement windows, mullions are often simply a decorative feature, creating a grid or pattern in the window, adding to the architectural style of the building, such as “mock Georgian’ for example.
Nominal Size
The approximate or rounded size of a window or door, often used in the planning stages before precise measurements are taken.
Obscure Glass
Glass that has been textured or treated to prevent clear visibility, used in areas where privacy is required, like bathrooms.
Ovolo
Is a rounded convex moulding often found on window frames to create a sculptured look in place of the flat chamfered design.
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