Raising the standard
The incoming Future Homes Standard signals a pivotal shift in how new homes will be built in England, with implementation expected from late 2026 onwards. The focus remains firmly on delivering zero-carbon-ready homes built to rigorous fabric and energy efficiency standards from the outset, which is a defining moment for the glazing industry. Here, Paul Higgins, commercial director at TuffX, explains why high-performance glazing will be central in reducing heat loss, improving comfort, and ensuring compliance across all new-build housing.
As the UK approaches the Future Homes Standard (FHS), glazing professionals face growing demand for solutions that cut carbon and boost thermal performance.
The FHS will ensure that new homes are zero-carbon-ready and equipped for a low-energy future which relies on efficient insulation, renewable energy sources and intelligent materials that enhance aesthetics and functionality.
Glass will always remain a key design element for any dwelling, but it will also become a vital factor in the energy performance of the building.
With expectations of triple glazing and whole window U-values of 1.4 W/m²K or lower becoming the ‘new norm’, the pressure and opportunity to lead on thermal performance has never been greater. As the industry moves through these massive changes and prepares for future requirements, now is the time to explore glazing options specifically designed to be future-focused.
With further tightening of energy efficiency and heating performance regulations on the horizon, multifunctional solutions like TuffX’s Glow-heated glass are helping housebuilders stay ahead. Designed for aluminium bi-fold doors, this sealed glass unit features an invisible, electrically conductive coating that converts power into radiant heat, eliminating the need for traditional radiators.
With surface temperatures reaching 35-40°C, Glow glass provides consistent, thermostatically controlled warmth while preserving interior space and layout flexibility.
Controlled via a wall-mounted thermostat, it becomes the primary heat source, making it ideal for new homes targeting low-carbon heating systems. Running costs are low, averaging around 9p per door per hour, or around £1.35 per day for a three-door system based on 25p/kWh electricity pricing. Like standard double-glazed units, Glow is easy to install and requires only a basic electrical connection to a 240V supply.
Glow glass also supports better thermal comfort and indoor air quality. Its design reduces condensation and mould risk, enhances natural light transmission, and maintains clean, uninterrupted views, which are key factors in occupant wellbeing and fabric performance.
Futureproof glass
Low-carbon glass, manufactured with recycled content and produced using clean energy sources, can significantly reduce the environmental impact of residential developments. Due to its lower-impact manufacturing process, this emerging solution offers the glazing industry a practical way to reduce emissions without compromising clarity, performance, or design flexibility.
Compared to standard float glass, it can reduce embodied carbon, helping housebuilders meet evolving sustainability benchmarks while contributing to net-zero targets.
Its thermal performance also supports key Future Homes goals, as it minimises heat loss, improves insulation and reduces the reliance on fossil fuel-based heating systems. With enhanced durability and reduced lifecycle impact, low-carbon glass provides long-term value for developers and homeowners alike.
TuffX was the first UK manufacturer to introduce low-carbon glass, which has been expertly designed without any compromises. Offering the same aesthetics as regular clear glass, the products contain 64% recycled content and are manufactured using renewable electricity throughout production.
This results in just 6.64kg CO2 content (equivalent m2 for 4mm of low-carbon glass) and 42% less carbon footprint when compared with standard glass production.
Combining sustainability with advanced performance, these new glazing solutions make it easier for housebuilders to future-proof homes and meet regulatory expectations, without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.
