A healthy indoor climate in residential and non-residential buildings requires proper ventilation. Ventilation consists of the controlled renewal of indoor air through the supply of fresh outdoor air and the removal of used air. Trickle ventilation is a form of natural ventilation in which fresh outdoor air is typically supplied through a narrow, elongated grille integrated into the window or frame.
The extraction of used air generally takes place via mechanical ventilation, for example in the kitchen, bathroom or toilet.
This form of window frame ventilation focuses primarily on the controlled supply of fresh outdoor air without the need to open windows. Because the grille is integrated into or onto the frame, the glass surface remains intact and the facade appearance is not affected, while a constant and even airflow is ensured. In well-insulated buildings, this helps prevent the build-up of CO₂, moisture and other pollutants.
Trickle ventilation can be applied in two ways: using recessed grilles or surface-mounted grilles. The most suitable solution depends on the type of project and the stage at which the window frame is processed: new construction or renovation.
In new construction projects, window frames are typically prefabricated and then transported to the construction site for installation. In the factory, a slot is machined into the frame or window timber, into which the trickle vent is integrated. This is referred to as a recessed grille. Because ventilation is incorporated into the window frame design at an early stage, this results in a clean finish and a uniform facade appearance.
In renovation projects, frames are usually already installed in the building. Adding trickle ventilation then requires on-site modification, for example by drilling holes or milling an opening using handheld tools. In these situations, a surface-mounted grille is often chosen. Instead of being integrated into the frame, the grille is mounted on or against the frame, usually above a created slot or opening. This allows ventilation to be added without major modifications to the existing frame construction.
Depending on the technical situation and the required ventilation performance, some trickle vents are suitable for both new construction and renovation projects and can be applied in different combinations.
Tilmar supplies trickle vents or slot vents for both new construction and renovation projects. Some grilles are specifically developed for integration in new construction, while most are flexible and can be used in both new construction and renovation.
Recessed trickle vents (new construction)
The following trickle vents are specifically designed for use in new construction:
Trickle vents suitable for both new construction and renovation
The following grilles can, depending on the technical situation, be applied in both new construction and renovation:
For some types, such as the Fresh 65, the required configuration or combination of components is determined in advance, depending on whether the application is for new construction or renovation. Depending on the frame construction and project phase, a grille can therefore be used in both situations.
For further information, Tilmar has developed an additional knowledge base article on trickle ventilation in new construction and renovation. This page provides more detailed explanations of the different grilles and application possibilities.
Tilmar provides durable and reliable ventilation solutions. Various trickle vents from Tilmar are equipped with a KOMO certificate. This is an independent quality declaration confirming that a construction product or system complies with established requirements, such as those included in the Building Decree for the Living Environment (Bbl), and is suitable for its intended application.
The Fresh 65, Fresh 101 HG and SM1400 Rotary trickle vents for use in external separating constructions are KOMO-certified. Based on this certification, SKG-IKOB declares that these products, when correctly applied and installed, meet the specified technical performance requirements. As such, they contribute to a high-quality and future-proof building project.
The choice of a trickle vent depends on several factors, such as the required airflow capacity, the frame construction, aesthetic requirements and the function of the space. The distinction between new construction and renovation also plays an important role.
Tilmar is happy to assist in selecting a suitable trickle ventilation solution and the associated products. For project-specific questions, you can contact us for technical advice.
For additional product information, such as dimensions, airflow capacity and technical specifications, please refer to the corresponding product pages for trickle ventilation.
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