Yale launches white paper for trickle vent requirements

Yale Door and Window Solutions has launched a new white paper in association with the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) to raise industry awareness of the new government guidelines around trickle vents.

Titled ‘Meeting the guidance on ventilation: A guide to ensuring your windows comply with Approved Document F for air quality’, the white paper outlines everything window fabricators and installers need to know about the new regulations that came into effect in June 2022.

It sets out how, as of that date, ventilation in UK buildings will be governed by two new approved documents – ‘Approved Document F, volume 1: dwellings’ and ‘Approved Document F, volume 2: buildings other than dwellings’ – and presents in clear terms what these documents state.

This includes the requirements that all trickle vents should be controllable, either manually or automatically; that they should be at least 1,700mm above floor level to reduce cold draughts while remaining within reach; and that any trickle vents with automatic controls should also have manual override.

The white paper explains where the new guidance states trickle vents should be used in existing and new buildings, how they should be used in conjunction with other ventilation systems, and what standards they must have passed – including BS EN 13141-1:2019, entitled ‘Ventilation for buildings – Performance testing of components/products for residential ventilation, Part 1: Externally and internally mounted air transfer devices’.

Kevin Jones, technical officer at the Glass and Glazing Federation, commented: “GGF were delighted to collaborate with Yale on the Approved Document F guide. It was a natural fit for two industry leading brands to come together and provide clarity for all concerned. The updated Building Regulations have raised many questions across the industry and this guide provides everyone with the answers they need.”

The Yale SlotVent range

In line with the updated government guidance, Yale recently launched its new SlotVent range of trickle vents, which provide a high-quality solution in full compliance with the latest requirements.

The Yale SlotVent range offers a choice of three variants – 2500EA (Equivalent Area), 4000EA, and 5000EA – each of which provides a different level of ventilation, depending on requirements. The product is made up of an internal vent that can be tilted 30, 60, or 90 degrees and includes the option of a foam gasket that reduces noise and drafts, as well as an external hood and a fly screen for the over-frame.

All products in the SlotVent range have been thoroughly tested in accordance with EN13141-1:2019, confirming their suitability for residential building ventilation as per the new government guidelines, as well as BS EN ISO 10140-1, testifying to their ability to insulate against airborne sound.

Grant Stratford, technical director for Window Hardware at Yale Door and Window Solutions, commented: “With our SlotVent range, we are enabling fabricators and installers to meet the new requirements with a high-quality solution that genuinely enhances the window, making it a more attractive proposition to customers.

“As the new government guidance comes in, it is vital that window fabricators and installers ensure that they are using the right types of trickle vents to avoid falling foul of inspections. With the SlotVent range and our new white paper, we have everything they need to ensure that they are fully compliant and therefore that their businesses can continue to prosper.”

To download your copy of the new Yale white paper, visit www.yaledws.co.uk