ý <p></p><p><br> </p><p><b><b>Specifying your doors and windows is becoming a surprisingly complex game. Tough new regulations, environmental arguments and the ever increasing demand for higher quality from your buyers all mean that you really need to take some time to pick the look you need. Andrew Leech examines the issues... through the arched window</b></b><br><b>Never before were windows and doors so crucial to the overall performance of new housing than they are today. But they are subjected to so many rules, regulations and standards, that it is difficult to know where best to start when it comes to specifying the most appropriate product for the circumstances.</b><br><b><b>holistic approach</b></b><br> Linda Mckeown of the Building Research Establishment&amp;’s construction division, proffers probably one of the best solutions when she suggests: &amp;“Best value in specifying windows and doors will come from adopting an holistic approach. This means balancing the needs and satisfaction of the occupant, the requirement of the specifier to get value for money and the broader needs of society in general to reduce environmental impacts.&amp;”</p><p>She is the first to agree that it is a complex task, but says valuable expert advice is available from the BRE, based on its research for government and industry, …