Part L advice hub launched

Pilkington UK has launched an online hub dedicated to keeping building design industry professionals informed on the latest developments from the upcoming changes to Part L (conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations in England.

Bringing together the knowledge of Pilkington UK’s own experts and involvement with key glazing industry bodies, the Pilkington UK Part L hub will provide regular articles, videos and guides to share insights and advice on the Part L developments, helping professionals prepare and adapt to the changes.

Consultations are expected to complete by early-mid 2020, with the updated Approved Documents being published by mid-2020 and coming into force by the end of the year.

The government has proposed two options for Part L of the Building Regulations for new dwellings in England.

The first option, described as ‘future homes fabric’, would offer a 20% reduction in carbon emissions compared to the current standard for an average home. This would be delivered through introducing very high fabric standards, such as triple glazing, resulting in minimal heat loss from the building envelope.

The second option would see a 31% reduction in carbon emissions compared to the current standard. It would take advantage of carbon-saving technology such as photovoltaic panels and low-carbon heating, as well a more modest increase in fabric standards, in comparison to option one.

Phil Brown, European regulatory marketing manager at Pilkington UK, said: “Our dedicated Part L hub will pool in-house expertise in building regulations, while leveraging our participation with key bodies engaged in the consultations such as the Flat Glass Manufacturers’ Association, to deliver trusted advice and guidance on Part L developments as they happen.

“Changes to Part L will no doubt change the specification of energy efficient building products supplied for all types of projects in the UK. As such, they’ll need to be considered carefully in the construction supply chain from architects and developers through to installers, ensuring compliance with what are expected to be new, higher standards for energy efficiency.”

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