Do all windows come with trickle vents?

Home ventilation is an important consideration for all homeowners. A poorly ventilated home can lead to problems with condensation and related damp and mould issues. If left untreated, a lack of ventilation can also cause health problems and create an unpleasant living environment. Fortunately, there is a simple solution – install windows with trickle vents!

What are trickle vents?

Trickle vents are a component within a window or door located near the top of the frame. They can be specified as either permanently open or controllable (opening and closing) and allow a small amount of ventilation at all times. Trickle vents are available in three different configurations:

• Fitted into the window frame or opening sash
• Fitted into a separate frame at the top of the window
• Mounted at the top of the glass unit

Trickle vents are designed to improve air quality inside a room and reduce condensation levels without having a negative impact on energy efficiency.

Are trickle vents compulsory?

According to the latest building regulations document F, all windows installed after the 15th June 2022 must comply with the new trickle vent regulations. This states that where the existing windows featured trickle vents then the new windows must also feature trickle vents that are equal in size to the original window vents and be controllable either automatically or by the occupant.

If trickle vents were not present in the existing windows, the new windows are not required to have trickle vents. Any new window installations, however, must not have a negative impact on a building’s ventilation. If this is the case, then a method of ventilation must be used. This could be through the use of trickle vents or by using a mechanical ventilation system.

Can aluminium windows have trickle vents?

Aluminium windows are an increasingly popular alternative to uPVC windows. Just like uPVC windows, aluminium windows can feature trickle vents which are fitted at the top of the frames. Aluminium windows are subject to the same building regulations as uPVC windows mentioned above.

Although trickle vents are usually incorporated into a window’s design during manufacture, it is possible to retrofit them. Retrofitting trickle vents is not the ideal solution and with aluminium windows in particular, where slimline frames are often used, it can prove more difficult and potentially detract from the window’s performance.

At Emereo, we would always recommend replacing old windows with new high performing alternatives rather than retrofitting trickle vents into existing windows.

High performing windows from Emereo

Here at Emereo, we are happy to install new windows with or without trickle vents depending on your requirements. We can offer expert advice on the best solution for your home and suggest the most appropriate windows and doors for you.

If you’d like to find out more about our range of products and services, get in touch today. You can call us on 01484 792 203 or send us a message online and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.