Is the important role windows play in our lives undervalued?
I think so yes.
The capability of a great window system can contribute to the simple obvious things many of us take for granted:
- Protect us from weather
- Act as a barrier from the outside keeping us safe
- Block out noise
- Reduce solar heat gain in summer
- Keep the warmth inside in winter
- Let’s in necessary natural light
- Enable essential ventilation
- Allow us to see the outside world, take in the view
- Create a feeling of well being
Almost 10 years ago I wrote a blog titled “Do you suffer from Air conditioning Guilt?”
The wave of support to reduce carbon emissions has come a long way in 10 years. It seems to me that the two main drivers encouraging everyday Australians to choose better windows right now is:
- the cost of energy
- the introduction of a 7-star energy rating requirement in NSW
What about the most important factor, the benefit of living in a comfortable healthy feel-good environment? This is very undervalued or just overlooked perhaps when making building design and renovation decisions.
What is the 7-Star energy rating requirement in NSW?
From October 2023, all new home builds costing more than $50,000 must have a 7-star energy rating under the state’s Building Sustainability Index (BASIX), up from 5.5 stars. A higher energy rating aims to move the dial on greenhouse gas emissions on new residential dwellings by 7-11%
Just like when you purchase a new appliance like a washing machine, window systems also have a performance value to help consumers measure the important comfort levels like solar heat gain and thermal efficiencies.
Why are windows such a key part of the 7-Star energy rating requirement?
On average 30% of a building’s envelope is glass. How can the government not include windows and achieve net zero by 2030?
What are the experts saying?
According to analyses conducted by experts, including the Australian Building Code Board, households stand to gain an initial yearly benefit of $576 through the implementation of well-designed windows under the energy-efficient star rating scheme.
We need to shift our focus towards a comprehensive, long-term approach to design, prioritizing liveability and sustainability over short term profits.
I recently heard talk of some building designers achieving 10 Star Ratings. This achievement signifies a state where homes have no requirement for artificial heating or cooling throughout the entire year. Isn’t that where mankind began? Some may call that off-grid – with the perfect design mix of orientation and carefully selected building materials.
Where do we go from here?
My view is that architects, builders, window fabricators and the like have an important role to play in educating everyday Australians on the role that Windows play in the future affordability of running a household as energy prices continue to increase.
More importantly the liveability factor which has a proven link to overall health benefits when your environment has the perfect mix of temperature, natural light and ventilation. This is not always easy with the contrasting harsh Australian climate particularly if you’re not designing from scratch. It’s essential to engage a reputable expert with 7 star design principals in mind.
Key Points
- Great windows are good for your health
- 7 Star housing legislation is here to stay
- Windows underpin the affordability of running a household
- High performing windows and glazing will become a major selling point of homes in the future with rental income likely linked to the Star Rating
I’m optimistic that as homeowners realise their windows will become an asset in the future, we will start to see a shift in mindset.
Retrofitting new windows will be viewed as a true investment in your home, liveability and overall health rather than a maintenance exercise.
To quote Clinton Skeoch, AGWA CEO in an article for the SMH on 25/9/23.
“We deserve quality windows; they change the way we live from keeping our homes safe and comfortable to lowering our energy bills and even changing our mood”
That sums it up really!