The first 'green' window in the UK - from Masterframe

The race to get the first 'C' rated window from The British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) is over - with Masterframe's Bygone Collection first past the post. The BFRC, the regulatory body for energy efficiency ratings for windows, has confirmed that Masterframe now has a 'green' window - i.e. a window that's energy efficiency to at least -20kWh/m2/year.

Masterframe's Technical Manager Ray Rabett explains how they did it: "The 'C' was easier for Masterframe to achieve than most other sash window fabricators, as we use a three chambered sash profile extruded by Halo. We've also used Low Iron glass on the outside, and hard coat Low E glass inside. An argon-filled sealed unit and a warm edge spacer ensure that energy loss is kept to a minimum. Bygone Preferred Installers now have a choice between the standard Bygone Collection window, with all its advances, and this 'C' rated sash.

"Homeowners are familiar with the system, especially the 'Energy Efficiency Recommended' swing tag logo which Masterframe and its customers can now use. BFRC ratings can help differentiate products and make a great sales tool for installers. It's a more expensive window, but it is unique in the marketplace, and installers are selling at a premium. Order and delivery time to installers won't be affected, and will be as good as ever."