Novel window technologies and the Code for Sustainable Homes in the UK

Abstract

Windows are extremely useful multi-function devices which provide views, ventilation and passive solar gain, a means of escape, security and daylight gain. However, they can have a negative impact on a home's energy efficiency, particularly when the window area is large, and play a significant role in determining the heating and cooling load of a building. It has been estimated that around 47% of the heat lost from building envelop occurs through windows. This paper summarizes the impact of the Low Carbon Homes Program in terms of future requirements and areas of future research for windows' performance and investigates new window technologies that could help to meet these requirements. © The Author 2010. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.