What are trickle vents and what do they do?

Installing new windows? Find out what trickle vents are for and whether you need them in your home. 

Trickle vents are required for all new properties and for any windows installed in an extension. However, homes using mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, or other methods that meet building regulations, don't need trickle vents. Listed buildings are also exempt. 

Can trickle vents be retrofitted?

Yes, it's possible to add trickle vents to existing windows and doors. This might be something to consider if you're experiencing problems with condensation in your home and don't have other adequate forms of ventilation.

They can be tricky to install – retrofitting is usually achieved by drilling through the existing frame. So, it's best to speak to a professional beforehand to make sure you get the most effective installation possible.

It's important to note that trickle vents will always work better when built into a window frame. 

How do trickle vents work?

Trickle vents usually use a small, canopied vent that allows a small amount of fresh air inside the building.

They're located in the frame of a window or door and have a cover that can be opened or closed. They're usually acoustically designed so they allow the least amount of sound from outside into your home. Most are covered with an insect net. 

What are acoustic trickle vents?

There's always something of a trade-off between letting fresh air in and keeping noise out. This can be an issue in areas with high traffic or near brownfield sites.

Luckily, installing acoustic trickle vents can help block out noise and soundproof your home while still allowing a steady flow of fresh air. 

Can trickle vents be closed?

While trickle vents can be closed, it's advisable to keep them open to allow continuous air inside your home, even in the winter months.

During cold days, there's less ventilation than normal – and activities like drying clothes inside and cooking can build up moisture. That's why it's best to keep them open to allow fresh air inside – unless you have another form of background ventilation. 

Where are trickle vents on windows?

The most common method of installing trickle vents is the through-frame method. This is where the vent is fitted into the top of the frame and features a staggered design that minimises draughts.

Other forms of trickle vents include the over-frame design, where the vent is fitted over the top of the frame, and the glazed-in design, where the vent is fitted into the glazed area between the sealed glass and the frame. 

What are the benefits of trickle vents? 

Trickle vents offer numerous benefits to your health and quality of life. They significantly improve air quality, which is important as stagnant air can lead to pollutants and allergens. They help minimise condensation, a common issue in the UK which is often damp and cold. Preventing mould is essential for a healthy and comfortable home, as mould build-up can cause respiratory problems, as well as damage to the property. 

It's also important to comply with UK building regulations to ensure the property is safe for residents. Some people may prefer the look of window frames without a trickle vent – but today's vents are hard to notice and are generally integrated seamlessly into the frame. 

Trickle vents offer far more security than having to open windows to ventilate your home. They're also energy efficient: they offer a good amount of ventilation to balance out the lack of air in well-insulated modern homes.

Any change of internal temperature from a trickle vent is fairly marginal – and if you're away from home for a long period, trickle vents will help to keep your home fresh.

Finally, they can be closed in winter if other forms of ventilation are used. This offers a good amount of control over energy usage in your home. 

Trickle vents are an essential part of installing new windows. Calder Windows offers bespoke window and door solutions for your home, including state-of-the-art trickle vents and our revolutionary triple-glazed window system. For a quick, competitive quote, don't hesitate to get in touch.