What Is an HDB / BTO Service Yard Window?
A service yard window is a window installed in the yard area of a resale HDB or BTO flat. The service yard is often used for laundry, storage, utility setups such as water heaters and gas piping. Since many BTO flats come without a window in the service yard, many homeowners opt to add one during renovation.
There are several types of service yard windows:
- Sliding window – panels slide horizontally, space-efficient and easy to use. Top hung can be added at the top for ventilation (optional).
- Casement window – hinged on one side; opens outward, offers stronger airflow and ventilation. It can be combined with top hung at the top as well.
- BiFold Window – panels can be folded neatly to the side for unblock view and maximum ventilation
- 180º Swing and Slide window – Similar to bifold window benefits but it opened up to 180º for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Key Benefits of Installing a Service Yard Window
- Weather Protection All Year Round: A properly installed HDB service yard window shields your yard from heavy rain and strong winds. This keeps your laundry, appliances, and storage area dry and protected in Singapore’s tropical weather.
- Better Ventilation for Everyday Chores: A sliding or casement window keeps your kitchen and yard fresh by improving air circulation. This helps laundry dry faster, reduces trapped humidity, and keeps odours from cooking or storage areas under control.
- Enhanced Safety and Peace of Mind: With secure locking systems and optional grilles, a service yard window gives protection against intruders and adds an extra layer of safety for households with children or pets. Without sacrificing ventilation.
Sliding Window vs Casement Window for Your Service Yard: Which to Choose?
When choosing between a sliding window and a casement window for your HDB service yard, it often comes down to practicality and comfort. Sliding windows are space-saving since they don’t swing outward, making them ideal for smaller yards, but they offer limited ventilation as only part of the window can open at a time and their tracks require occasional cleaning. Casement windows, on the other hand, need more clearance to open but provide stronger airflow when fully extended and are easier to clean both inside and out, making them a good choice if ventilation is your top priority.
Regulatory Guidelines & Compliance
If you’re installing a bto service yard window or replacing one, you must ensure your window installation complies with both HDB and BCA guidelines. Key points:
- According to the HDB guidelines, any replacement or installation must match the original window’s type, colour, and proportion.
- Only BCA-approved window contractors may carry out the work
- For service yard windows, there may also be requirements about the frame and grilles design, colour matching to the block.
Thinking of installing your BTO service yard? Contact our HDB / BCA-approved installers for a free consultation today.
