passivehouse+ | Issue 10
News
Norrsken launch passive house certified Viking window Low energy window supplier Norrsken has announced the launch of a new passive house certified, outward-opening window from Estonian manufacturer Viking to the UK. The Viking SW14 aluminium-clad timber window is certified by the institute to have an overall U-value of 0.80 but can go as low as 0.63 depending on size. It has a 50mm profile of triple glazing with two low-e coatings, warm-edge Swisspacers, and argon fill. The product represents a major upgrade on Viking’s existing triple-glazed SW11 window, which has an overall U-value of 0.9W. The frame of the SW14 has also been modified to allow for more overlap for airtightness membranes. “They’ve beefed everything up to comply with passive house,” Alex Alsop of Norrsken told Passive House Plus. “It looks great too, it’s a beautifully finished window." The SW14 window combines the traditional outward-opening style of British windows with ultra low energy performance. Inward-opening windows are more common on the continent where external shading is prevalent, while outward-opening windows are more typical in the UK, where internal curtains are more common. Alsop added that it is generally more difficult to make outward-opening windows as energy efficient as inward-opening units, because the outward-opening sash is quite thin and flush with the outer edge of the frame. With inward-opening units, the sash tends to be as deep as the frame. However the Viking SW14 features a dual gasket system that allows for a much deeper glazing profile, enabling it to achieve passive house performance. Norrsken also supply a range of high performance windows and doors under its own brand name, including its Norrsken Passiv and Passiv + range.
(above) The Passive House Institute certified Viking SW14 aluminium-clad timber window
Saint-Gobain to launch Multi-Comfort concept at Ecobuild Saint-Gobain will launch its ‘Multi-Comfort’ concept at this year’s Ecobuild show, as well as celebrating its 350th anniversary.
A dedicated website and brochures will accompany the launch at the show, while experts will be on hand to help visitors put theory into practice.
‘Multi-Comfort’ buildings are designed to not only save energy but to improve occupant health, wellbeing and productivity, according to the company.
Richard Halderthay, director of communication for Saint-Gobain UK, Ireland & South Africa, said: “Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland is pleased to be returning to Ecobuild in our 350th anniversary year.
Visitors will be able to experience the concept first hand at Saint-Gobain’s Ecobuild stand, which will feature ‘experience pods’ that allow visitors to feel the individual elements such as indoor air quality as well as thermal, audio and visual comfort.
“As we celebrate our milestone birthday, we are also looking at 350 reasons to believe in the future. The launch of ‘Multi-Comfort’ supports our belief that sustainable habitat is within our reach. By providing sustainable products and
solutions, this vision can be made a reality. “Ecobuild is an important event in our calendar, as it’s a place for the industry to come together to discuss key issues and showcase innovation. We have a number of exciting events and surprises planned for Ecobuild, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and introducing them to Saint-Gobain’s vision for the future.” You can visit Saint-Gobain at Ecobuild, held at ExCel London from 3–5 March, on Stand N6050/N6060 and in the main boulevard. For more information, visit www.saint-gobain.co.uk
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