Built in fire preparedness

Many of the features that make a home energy efficient also make it fire resistant

Even before the unprecedented tragedies of February 2009 in Victoria, the government’s Home Energy Advice Team published recommendations in response to the Canberra fires of 2003, saying “Housing designs that offer greater resistance to radiant heat and ember attack during bushfires also incorporate many energy efficient design principles.”

It’s a serious and detailed subject, with raw memories for many, so we recommend you spend some time talking to our consultants, or attend one of our “Housing Energy Solutions” seminars, to learn how CertainTeed double glazing with uPVC frames helps meet the advice team’s ideals.

The Advice Team makes the following points, (quoted in red italics), relevant to windows:

“The real enemy is the embers that attack the house before and after the flame front hits”

CertainTeed uPVC window frames will not combust like timber.

The uPVC frames have no paint and no varnish, which burn at relatively low temperatures and they also do not conduct heat like aluminium.

The uPVC frames and double glazed windows survived this house fire.

Even if exposed to direct flame, CertainTeed uPVC could gain you precious extra time to fight or flee a fire.  This was proven in the February 2009 fires, when a house was saved, while those around it were lost. If you are seriously concerned about the bushfire risk in your area, we recommend you opt for safety glass to further resist sudden temperature changes.

The double glazing increases your heat barrier and metal insect screens help resist radiant heat.

“All gaps around doors, windows and eaves should be sealed to improve energy efficiency and reduce entry points for embers.”

CertainTeed windows seal effectively, keeping out ember bearing winds as surely as winter draughts.

“Windows designed for improved thermal performance protect the house from heat transfer during a fire.”

Thermal performance is a major reason – along with acoustic performance - for CertainTeed’s international success.