New UK Shading Guidelines Set to Launch in October 2023

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22 Aug

new uk shading guidelines for homes and new buildings

New UK Shading Guidelines Launched in 2023: A Joint Effort by Good Homes Alliance (GHA) and British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA)

The collaborative efforts of the Good Homes Alliance (GHA) and the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) have given rise to a group of experts dedicated to formulating and delivering pioneering shading guidelines. This initiative stands as an extension of the GHA's established industry guidance, renowned for its approach to curbing overheating risks in both existing and new residential spaces. Orchestrated by the GHA and endorsed by Ballymore, BBSA, Caribbean Blinds, Guthrie Douglas, and Louvolite, the project seeks to cater to an array of stakeholders including architects, local authorities, housing associations, policy makers, and private developers.

The Good Homes Alliance

At its core, the GHA champions the cause of sustainable housing, fostering partnerships with industries and governments to facilitate knowledge exchange, establish networks, develop best practices, host events, advocate for campaigns, conduct research, and disseminate findings through publications. Central themes include the exploration of housing models, mitigation of overheating risks, realization of carbon-neutral housing, and the acceleration of high-quality housing through robust strategies. Its membership encompasses architects, consultants, housing associations, and private sector developers, all unified by the shared goal of achieving net-zero standards.

The British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA)

As the singular national trade association for entities engaged in blinds-related endeavors, the BBSA holds a pivotal role in upholding quality assurance for product standards, services, and fair trading practices. This umbrella encompasses various facets such as manufacturing, supply, and installation, spanning both internal and external blinds, awnings, security grilles, and shutters, complemented by motor and control systems. Notably, the BBSA stands as a comprehensive repository of information and expertise within the solar shading industry.

The Imperative of Overheating

In an era of swiftly changing climate patterns, average ambient temperatures are experiencing an upward trajectory. While the presumption might be that overheating is confined to the sweltering days of summer, the reality is that it can occur whenever indoor temperatures become intolerable for occupants. Key catalysts for home overheating encompass suboptimal design elements such as floor-to-ceiling glazing, inadequate ventilation, south and west facing single-aspect rooms, low ceilings, and absence of external shading. The repercussions of overheating are multifaceted, culminating in health-related challenges, particularly among the most vulnerable demographics, and the exacerbation of existing health conditions.

The Existing GHA Guidance Toolkit

In 2019, the GHA introduced a guidance toolkit aimed at identifying and mitigating early-stage overheating risks in newly developed homes. This toolkit amalgamates a risk assessment tool, an in-depth exploration of factors influencing overheating likelihood, guidance tailored for design teams and developers, alongside work-in-progress examples.

Propelling the Purpose of New Guidance

The forthcoming collaboration between GHA and BBSA under the banner of "Shade the UK" holds significant promise in hastening the UK's transition towards enhanced resilience against escalating temperatures.

Recognizing the pivotal role of shading in enhancing thermal comfort and curbing active cooling demands within buildings, empirical data showcases that well-crafted shading can result in a yearly reduction of cooling energy demand ranging from 5% to 15%. This underscores the essence of well-structured guidance to maximize energy savings. Anchored in empirical evidence, the imminent guidance by GHA and BBSA strives to build upon prior recommendations, fortified by illustrative case studies and informed by the latest research and policy developments.

A Plethora of Building Shading Solutions, Elevated Importance

Instances of various building shading mechanisms—previously more associated with Mediterranean climates—gaining traction in the UK over recent years underscore the mounting concerns over overheating. These encompass an array of solutions including awnings, solar screens, blinds, louvers, shutters, green roofs, and planters, among others. However, a dearth of comprehensive case studies often hinders an understanding of the challenges that housing industries encounter in incorporating these solutions. Thus, this undertaking aims to assemble detailed case studies catering to the integration of shading elements in both new and existing residential structures. Furthermore, the guidelines will delve into the nuances of internal versus external shading, navigate shading considerations within conservation areas, shed light on the implications of the new Part O (Overheating) building regulations, and emphasize the significance of forward-looking design and provision for future shading needs.

The Vanguard of Expertise

Esteemed experts are spearheading this initiative, with architect Pollard Thomas Edwards, sustainability leader Tom Dollard, Passivhaus advocate, and designer Joseba Perez leading the charge. The broader team includes engineering firm Max Fordham and Professor Rajat Gupta from Oxford Brookes University's Department of Sustainable Architecture and Climate Change. Notably, the consortium of industry experts encompasses representatives from Avison Young, Cambridge City Council, CIBSE, ECD Architects, Oxford City Council, Sovereign, and TOWN.

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