Performance

Wood windows look good. And wood is a sustainable material. But what about performance? What about thermal efficiency? Maintenance? Life expectancy?

Backed by new Life Cycle Assessment and service life data, windows bearing the wood quality mark come with low maintenance, and long life guarantees. Our manufacturer's windows meet or exceed independently audited standards for weather performance and are independently audited on their test evidence. They also demonstrate responsible sourcing compliance with sustainable timber requirementsby use of certified timer and chain-of-custody certification.

Energy efficiency and double glazing

Nowadays, a window's thermal efficiency is a key part of reducing any home's overall energy needs, meeting building regulations and complying with the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Because wood is an excellent thermal insulator, wood windows have an inherent advantage. But thermal performance is also governed by the specification of the double (or even triple) glazing, and by the detail design of the windows themselves.

Specifying a Wood Window Alliance window gives you the confidence it will be independently audited to ensure it meets British or European standards for weather protection and storm proofing, and for energy efficiency, will have thermal ratings to meet, or exceed, current building regulations. Some members may indicate their Window Energy Rating (WER) through BFRC (British Fenestration Ratings Council) or similar rating systems operational in Europe.

Durability

Good quality wood windows are an investment that can last a lifetime. Manufacturers offer extensive service life and paint/stain warranties on windows carrying the mark. The BRE's Green Guide gives high performance, factory finished windows a service life of at least 35 years.

Low maintenance

Modern wood windows are easy to maintain. Fully factory-finished windows carry substantial warranties on the paint or stain finish. Improvements in paint technology mean that re-finishing is a low-cost exercise with a rub down and a single coat of paint, with no need for time consuming sanding down, burning off, or chemical stripping.

Repairability

Unlike other types of window, wood windows can be repaired easily, extending their life (and their carbon store) still further, meaning even less impact on the environment than replacements.

Even higher specifications

These standards are minimum requirements. Wood Window Alliance members often manufacture to even higher standards to meet 21st century demands, whether for SBD (Secured by Design), zero carbon housing or other requirements. You'll find WWA manufacturers at the heart of helping you achieve your goals.