"Mathew Newton" wrote in message
ups.com...
sm_jamieson wrote:
My plans for the extension contains the usual wording about ventilation
and windows:

Windows to habitable rooms to have opening vents not less than 5% floor
area of room, plus 8000mm2 controllable trickle ventilation. Kitchens
and bathrooms to have 4000mm2 controllable trickle ventilation.

But I've been looking at the UPVC windows around and the trickle
venting seems to be ugly sliding things on the inside, horizontal slots
on the outside, and looks horrid. Also, it is a noise path even when
"shut". What is the alternative to these, that will satisfy the regs ?

Simon.

I could be wrong (it does occaionally happen) but did I read somewhere
that windows that can be locked/secured in an 'ajar' position are
acceptable alternatives to having 'permanent' trickle vents fitted?


That's my understanding of what the FENSA subscription man told me.
HE said that owner/occupiers tended to buy the
lock-in-an-intermediate-position windows ('cos they look nice) whilest
rentiers (including councils and Housing Associations) specify the ugly
looking windows with trickle vents ('cos they're cheaper - and tenants tend
to dry clothes indoors with windows shut tight leading to damp problems).

Certainly our Rehau units, only a couple of years old, don't have
trickle vents - but they can be locked in a 'slightly-open' fashion
(very handy that feature is too). Of course, perhaps they're not
regulation compliant but it's a reputable brand I believe (which is
good enough for me).

Mathew

--

Brian