Everybody knows that sustainability is important, but how can you tell greenwashing from genuine eco practices? More and more homeowners and specifiers are looking for clear, credible data.
That’s where Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) come in.
These documents show the true environmental impact of a product—from raw materials to end-of-life. When it comes to timber windows, they are more valuable than ever.
What Is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)?
An EPD is a verified, standardised document that outlines a product’s environmental impact across its entire life cycle. This includes:
- Sourcing of materials
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- Installation
- Maintenance
- Disposal or recycling
Unlike unsubstantiated marketing claims, EPDs follow international standards such as ISO 14025 and EN 15804. This ensures all manufacturers are assessed in the same way. As a result, architects and builders can use them to meet sustainability targets or to support green building certifications like LEED or BREEAM.
Why Are EPDs Important for Timber Windows?
Timber is often seen as a low-carbon, natural choice. However, not all timber windows are equally sustainable. Their impact can vary depending on:
- The type and source of timber
- How the window is made
- The expected lifespan and durability
With an EPD, manufacturers back up their environmental claims with facts. This gives customers and specifiers confidence when choosing timber windows for eco-conscious projects.
How Gowercroft Is Raising the Bar
Gowercroft Joinery is proud to be the first UK timber window manufacturer to produce EPDs for every product we offer.
This achievement means we don’t just claim to be sustainable—we prove it. Every one of our timber windows and doors has undergone:
- A full life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Third-party verification
- Detailed testing for energy performance and longevity
As a result, our customers can trust the data behind our products, knowing they’re making informed, future-proof decisions.
What Makes Gowercroft’s EPDs Stand Out?
We’ve gone beyond the minimum. Most companies provide EPDs for just a few key products. Gowercroft has created them for our entire range.
This gives specifiers and homeowners greater flexibility. Whether you’re upgrading a heritage home or building to Passive House standards, we have EPD-certified options to suit.
What Does This Mean for the Industry?
The construction industry must reduce its carbon footprint. To do that, it needs traceability, consistency, and transparency.
Gowercroft’s move sets a new benchmark. We’ve shown that high-performance, long-lasting products can also meet the highest environmental standards. And we’re doing it now—not waiting for regulations to catch up.
Planning a Sustainable Project?
Whether you’re retrofitting a listed building or developing a low-carbon new build, Gowercroft’s windows and doors can help. Every product in our range combines:
- Verified environmental credentials
- Outstanding thermal and weather performance
- Beautiful design and craftsmanship
- A 10-year no-quibble, no-maintenance guarantee
Want to learn more about how we support sustainable building?
Visit our Life Cycle Assessment page or contact our team to explore EPD-certified timber window and door solutions.