The Hounslow Homes team check that the position of the windows in the timber frames. A 10mm gap is left all round the window which is subsequently filled with expanding foam.

bere:architects have been on site helping train the Hounslow Homes team in the correct installation methods for the Passivhaus windows which are replacing the existing UPVC windows. The proximity of Heathrow airport creates a lot of background noise and the UPVC windows had been retrospectively fitted with secondary glazing to try and combat the disturbance. Even with only half of the triple glazed windows installed Mr and Mrs O’Donnell have noticed an improvement in the background noise levels.

The new Passivhaus windows are being fitted to timber frames on the face of the existing walls to bring them into the same line as the external insulation. The external insulation will then cover the timber frames and 50mm of the window frames to create a thermal bridge free detail.

An unexpected benefit of this detail was revealed by Mrs O’Donnell during our visit. The deeper internal window sills now create more space for Mrs O’Donnell’s house plants!

Draught proofing tapes are fitted around the sides and top of the window before it is fixed into the frame. Folds of tape called ‘Rabbit Ears’ are left at the corners to allow the window to expand and contract without damaging the tapes. A final tape across the bottom of the frame will be fitted once the window is fixed in place.

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