Document L 2010

Smart's W.E.R. Calculation Software

Smart's W.E.R. Calculation Software can be used in conjunction with Smart W.E.R. Labels to easily produce Window Energy Ratings for Smart's products in line with the requirements of Document L 2010.

Smart's customers can obtain a copy of the software by emailing the Marketing Department.

***NEW SOFTWARE AVAILABLE (Version 1.9a)***

The updated software includes the ability to print BFRC Simplified Energy Licences directly from the Software. Companies who have completed the registration with the BFRC are able to set up the registration details by clicking on 'Register' on the file menu. (More Details...)

• DOWNLOAD WER SOFTWARE (Version 1.9a)

DOCUMENT L: CONSERVATION OF FUEL AND POWER

Recent changes in the Building Regulations are being driven by the need for the Government to comply with EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).

Reducing energy consumption and eliminating wastage are among the main goals of the European Union (EU). EU support for improving energy efficiency will prove decisive for competitiveness, security of supply and for meeting the United Nations’ commitments on climate change made under the Kyoto protocol. There is significant potential for reducing consumption. With 40% of our energy consumed in buildings, the EU has introduced legislation to ensure that they consume less energy.

The new Building Regulations can be downloaded from:

Planning Portal

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/england/professionals/buildingregs/technicalguidance/bcconsfppartl/

THIS ADVICE IS AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD AS A PDF DOCUMENT USING THE LINK AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE.

L1 DOMESTIC BUILDINGS

Domestic window U Values have been tightened for new build, refurbishment and replacement windows, with greater restrictions placed on the centre pane U Value compliance route.

Window Energy Ratings apply to all windows on existing dwellings and allow the effect of solar gain to offset heat lost though a window. Window Energy Ratings can be significantly improved using low iron glass and thermally enhanced spacer bars.

Key Changes 2010

L1A New houses

L1B Refurbishment and extension to existing houses

The Window Energy Rating (WER) is given by the following equation;
WER = 196.7 x ((1-f)x Gglass) – 68.5 x ( U + (0.0165 x AL)) (kWh/m²/year)

L2 COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

Whilst new commercial buildings will have to be at least 25% more efficient than existing buildings, the limiting U Values for fenestration remain largely unchanged. The limiting values for windows and doors remain at 2.2W/m²K, although the requirements for high usage entrance doors have been tightened. This approach leaves the building designer a choice between which building elements to improve in the SBEM calculations. Greater focus is paid on reducing the overall building efficiency and a greater emphasis on solar gains and overheating through passive solar control measures.

Key Changes 2010

L2A New commercial buildings

L2B Refurbishment and extension to existing commercial buildings