What are trickle vents? Do you need them in your windows?

Modern houses are now better sealed and more airtight than ever before, helping to improve insulation, cut energy costs and reduce the escape of damaging greenhouse gases. However, that leaves the potential for a range of problems that can result from poor ventilation, such as those caused by condensation and pollutants lingering in rooms.

The need for a solution can be quickly understood when you discover just how much more energy efficient new homes are compared with older ones. In the year to September 2021, some 84% of new build homes came with an EPC rating of at least B – that compares to only 3% of older properties managing to achieve a similar level of energy efficiency. 

One common solution that has been introduced in recent years is incorporating what are called ‘trickle vents’ into windows. But what are trickle vents, what do they do and are they compulsory? The Lee Glass & Glazing team is here to answer all your questions.

What are trickle vents?

Trickle vents are narrow slots usually located above windows in a home, although they can sometimes be found above doors as well. They are designed to improve ventilation and control airflow in a room without leading to heat loss during colder months or the lack of security that can go with leaving windows open during hot weather. The constant flow of air also means that any stale air and bad odours lingering within are removed, leaving cleaner, healthier air for those inside.

Most trickle vents can usually be closed, but they are intended and have been designed for constant use.

Are trickle vents compulsory?

From June 2022, the installation of trickle vents in all new and replacement windows in the UK is compulsory under building regulations. The only exceptions to this are listed buildings, houses in conservation areas and buildings where there is a workable, dedicated alternative ventilation system already fitted. 

Previously, when replacing windows that didn’t have a trickle vent fitted, there was no need to have one on the new window either. However, as replacement windows generally make a building even more airtight, it makes sense to improve ventilation to counter the effects.

These new regulations mean that any new windows that don’t have a trickle vent fitted will fail the necessary FENSA inspection and won’t be eligible for a certificate. 

Are there any disadvantages to trickle vents? 

Perhaps the most significant disadvantage that has been reported by some homeowners is that trickle vents can allow more noise to be let in from outside. However, it is worth mentioning that some recent designs are managing to cut even those small amounts of extra external noise.

Inevitably, the improved ventilation you get with trickle vents does lead to a tiny amount of heat loss, but this is unlikely to be to a significant enough level that you’ll notice it in your energy bills – and the benefits they bring far outweigh any financial deficit.

Lee Glass & Glazing are your local experts in glass and replacement windows for domestic and commercial customers across Nottingham and the East Midlands.

We’re registered as an approved installer with FENSA, so you can be confident that the windows we supply and fit are not only of the highest quality, but also meet all current regulations.

Get in touch today to find out more or to ask for a free quotation.