Recent comments in the press suggest that because the cost to homeowners of a BFRC A-rated window is significantly higher than a C rating, they will settle for the lower rating and ‘pocket the difference’. BFRC-accredited body BM TRADA Certification, however, argues, that the cost to manufacturers of achieving an
A–rating under the Window Energy Rating (WER) scheme- and all the marketing advantages this would imply - could be negligible if they work with a simulator who asks the right questions.
According to BM TRADA’s Andy Sumner, ‘When a thermal simulation is conducted, there is the opportunity to open up the dialogue between the simulator and the client, to decide on the best specification for that client.’
The simulator should ask a number of questions to enable the client to consider all the options available, such as the many different IGU specifications available (glass type, gas filling type, edge sealants, spacer bar options), type and position of reinforcements, density of timber, or size and shape of window profiles.
‘The professional simulators at our sister company Chiltern Dynamics have a wealth of experience within the window industry for all material types. It’s not a case of simply being aware of the materials and being able to simulate a window, it’s more about knowing what can be done to enhance the product to provide the best window energy rating at the most competitive cost that is value engineering the windows to the client’s advantage.'
Mr Sumner added, ‘The same can be said for door energy ratings, which are soon to be coming on line with BFRC.’
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