GL ASS & WINDOWS
NEWS
Samantha Anderson, National Marketing Manager AWS
THREE KEY TRENDS ARISING FROM THE NCC 2022 CHANGES 1. ENERGY EFFICIENCY The NCC 2022 requires all new Australian homes and apartments to meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of 7 stars under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Lifting the rating will not only improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, but also make homes more comfortable. Windows and doors will play an essential part in ensuring homes are 7 star rated. ‘As an industry, we are in a great position to showcase the innovations we have designed and developed over the past 10-15 years. AWS was ahead of its time when it released its thermally broken range, ThermalHEARTTM into the market. This has been followed up recently with the release of ComfortEDGETM, a double glazed, embedded range,’ said Samantha. ‘Our motivation comes from wanting to do better in the industry and providing solutions for homeowners, builders and designers that meet increasing compliance requirements while remaining affordable.’
There are three key considerations for the window and door industry after the recent changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022. These are energy efficiency, accessibility, and condensation.
‘The level of change that is about to impact builders is extraordinary. They have a lot on their plate. I truly believe that, together, we can help builders transition these changes into their business with ease,’ stated Samantha Anderson, National Marketing Manager, Architectural Window Systems (AWS). Samantha continued, ‘a common concern with builders, is keeping up to date with product innovation and finding a solution that meets the new requirements, while being stylish and affordable. Especially with interest rates rising, there is less in the budget up front’. With this in mind, it is a key opportunity to educate builders about products within each of these key areas of focus.
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ISSUE 14
SUMMER 2022
The trend to date, has been for large expanses of glazing, however, there is a concern that windows and doors will revert to being smaller to manage the new energy efficiency compliance requirements. This isn’t ideal for homeowners who want natural light and a connection to their outdoors. Leading the way with builders to help them understand what solutions they have available, will be crucial in their success and ease at transitioning these changes. 2. ACCESSIBILITY One of the most significant changes of NCC 2022 is the new livable housing provisions. These livable housing provisions will help provide more housing options for older Australians and people with physical disabilities. ‘There have already been great innovations in this space, enhancing the safety and accessibility of different spaces. One such example is the FlowTHRU™Drain, an integrated flush threshold drainage system,’ acknowledged Samantha. Incorporating this drain allows for a compliant and safe way to achieve a seamless, aesthetic and level transition between internal and external spaces, while still providing the functional benefits of effective drainage. The FlowTHRU™ Drain incorporates a stainlesssteel grate featuring an anti-slip surface. This helps reduce the risk of trips and falls, especially where water is involved.
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