New Non-Dwellings

The Government has launched a consultation concerning changes to the Building Regulations in England for new buildings other than dwellings. These changes are expected to have a significant impact on glass and glazing products in buildings.

Ending on 13^th April 2021, the consultation set outs proposed changes to Part L (conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations for new non-dwellings in England. This follows on from last year's consultation on new dwellings, the Government's response to which has been published.

A new building must be shown to meet or better the Target Primary Energy Rate and Target Emission Rate for a notional building of the same size and shape as an actual building with standardised properties for fabric and services.

The following limiting U values for elements in new buildings have been proposed:

*for example, student accommodation and care homes

The U value of a rooflight should be based on the outer developed surface area, which is often greater than the area of the roof opening. Unlike for windows and roof windows, rooflights should have their U values calculated based on a horizontal position.

No maximum U value has been set for display windows and similar glazing. However, their impact must be taken into account in the calculation of primary energy and CO₂ emissions for the new building.

To satisfy the above requirements, Pilkington provides a range of low-e glass that can provide thermal insulation.

The proposals also include requirements to limit the effects of solar gains in summer when compared with reference glazing systems. Pilkington provides a range of solar control glass for reducing solar gains in buildings, while maintaining high levels of daylight.

If you have any questions on Part L 2021 and what the implications might be for glass, please complete our online contact form, selecting 'Architect' or 'Trade' as the Enquiry Type and 'Part L 2021' as the Nature of Your Enquiry.