Paul Higgins of TuffX explores how glazing has evolved into a critical element in buildings’ energy performance, and offers a practical guide to help specifiers achieve ‘futureproofed’ glazing solutions.
With the Future Homes Standard (FHS) set to take effect soon, housebuilders face increasing pressure to adopt low-carbon technologies and improve energy efficiency across developments. The goal; new homes that produce 75-80% fewer carbon emissions than those built under previous regulations.
Delivering this target requires a fundamental shift in how materials are specified. To achieve it, glazing, which has long been a primarily aesthetic feature, has now become vital in boosting thermal performance, ensuring occupant comfort, and, importantly, reducing carbon output.
Another industry challenge is Part O of the Building Regulations, which now mandates that new homes mitigate overheating through innovative design strategies, including maximising passive cooling and air flow. Glazing specification is central to this, as too much solar gain can result in uncomfortable internal conditions, but too little natural light can compromise well-being.
Advanced glazing technologies such as solar control and low-emissivity (Low-E) glass can help strike this balance. These coatings reduce unwanted solar gain while allowing high levels of natural daylight. In turn, this helps indoor environments stay cooler in summer and is especially useful in properties with large, glazed areas, such as bi-fold doors or full-height windows.
Sustainable glass for a low-carbon future
Low-carbon glass, produced using less energy and higher recycled content, is an exciting innovation that supports better operational efficiency while reducing a property’s embodied carbon footprint. Offering high thermal performance, the improved insulation properties help reduce heat loss during winter and solar gain in summer, reducing the need for mechanical heating or cooling.
As the first manufacturer to introduce low-carbon glass to the market, TuffX developed a product containing 64% recycled content and made using renewable electricity. The result is a product with a 42% lower carbon footprint than standard float glass without compromising clarity or aesthetics. This is a simple specification choice with significant long-term benefits for housebuilders seeking practical ways to lower embodied carbon without overhauling structural design.
Double-duty heated glass
One of the most compelling future-proof glazing solutions is heated glass, which combines thermal comfort with clear views and space-saving potential. Integrated within bi-fold doors or large windows, this invisible technology provides primary heat through radiant energy while maintaining all the benefits of conventional glazing.
Heated glass comprises a sealed unit with an intelligent, electrically conductive coating that radiates heat. With no visible elements, the glazing appears no different from standard units. Yet it performs like a radiator, reaching surface temperatures of 35-40°C and controlled via a wall-mounted thermostat.
This frees up interior wall space, enabling more flexible room layouts – ideal for open-plan extensions and garden-facing living spaces where radiator placement can be limiting. Heated glass also reduces condensation, which helps maintain clear views and supports healthier indoor air quality by preventing the growth of mould and mildew, which is especially beneficial in airtight homes.
From a cost perspective, heated glass is surprisingly efficient. A three-panel bi-fold running for five hours a day costs approximately £1.35 to operate (based on 25p/kWh), making it a viable low-carbon alternative to traditional systems, particularly in homes where space heating needs are moderate and aesthetics are a priority.
Installation is also straightforward. Heated glass units are installed the same way as conventional double glazing, with electrical connections made by a qualified electrician to the 240 v mains supply. There’s no additional pipework, radiators or floor-level disruption, which speeds up installation and simplifies sequencing on site.
This solution offers a valuable route to FHS compliance. Delivering efficient space heating through integrated glass contributes to reducing carbon emissions while supporting architectural design and resident comfort.
Specialist solutions
Glazing specification must evolve as the industry adapts to the demands of the Future Homes Standard and tighter energy regulations. Low-carbon and multi-functional glass products offer housebuilders innovative, compliant, and practical options for creating sustainable, attractive, and future-ready homes.
For developers looking to maximise glazing’s potential, from lowering embodied carbon to eliminating radiators, now is the time to re-evaluate this essential part of the building envelope. With products now available that deliver both energy savings and elegant design, glass is no longer just a window to the outside world; it’s a pathway to net zero.
Paul Higgins is commercial director at TuffX