HDB BTO Service Yard Window in Singapore (2025 Complete Guide by Industry Experts
- Ho Ho Door
- 20 hours ago
- 7 min read
Choosing the right service yard window is one of the most overlooked yet critical renovation decisions for HDB BTO flats in Singapore. The wrong window mechanism can restrict ventilation, interfere with laundry drying, and in some cases, fail HDB renovation approval.
In this complete guide, we explain the types of window mechanisms suitable for service yards, the HDB regulations for service yard windows in new BTO flats, common window dimensions, approved frame colours, and window grille requirements—all based on current HDB renovation guidelines.
What Is a Service Yard Window?
A service yard window is a window installed at the HDB BTO service yard—the utility area typically used for laundry and ventilation. Unlike living room or bedroom windows, the service yard window is usually not provided by HDB when homeowners collect the keys to a new BTO flat. As a result, many homeowners choose to install one during renovation.
Installing a service yard window is important for several practical reasons:
Keeps the service yard dry - Prevents rainwater from entering the service yard, reducing water splashing and floor wetness.
Protects laundry from rain - Allows clothes to dry naturally while shielding them from sudden rain, especially during Singapore’s unpredictable weather.
Prevents birds from entering - In some estates, bird intrusion is a common issue. Installing a service yard window helps block birds from entering, nesting, or soiling the area.
A properly selected service yard window enhances functionality, hygiene, and safety, while ensuring compliance with HDB renovation guidelines.
What Types of Windows Can Be Used for Service Yard?
There are many window systems available, but in Singapore HDB flats, only a few glass windows mechanism are practical and approved by HDB.
Most Common & Cheapest Service Yard Window: Sliding Window
Sliding windows are the most popular choice for service yards.
Why homeowners choose sliding windows:
Easy to operate when hanging laundry
Cost-effective
No obstruction in the middle
Starting price: $499
Best HDB BTO service yard window for: Budget-friendly and practical homeowners
🌿 Best View & Ventilation Service Yard Window: Folding Window
Folding windows fully open the entire width, creating maximum airflow and openness.
Why folding windows are preferred:
No vertical middle bar blocking the opening
Easier to hang laundry
Unobstructed view and perfect ventilation
Price: From $1,400
Best HDB BTO service yard window for: Homeowners who want great view and prioritise airflow
Folding windows are cheaper than slide-and-swing windows while offering the same unobstructed view and optimal ventilation.
Premium & Latest Service Yard Window: Slide & Swing Window
Slide & swing windows use a dual-function mechanism where panels first slide along a track and then swing inward individually. This allows the entire window opening to be accessed without permanent obstructions.
Unobstructed view with full opening
Latest window mechanism in Singapore
Flexible panel configuration (Unlike folding windows, which require an even number of panels, slide & swing windows can be designed with an odd number of panels, making them more adaptable to certain service yard layouts.)
Price: From $2,380
Best HDB & BTO service yard window for: Homeowners seeking a premium solution, modern functionality, and maximum usability, with a higher renovation budget.
Why Casement Windows Are Not Common for Service Yard
Although casement windows are allowed, they are rarely recommended.
Reason:
Service yard openings usually require 4 panels
A vertical middle bar sits right in the centre
This blocks laundry hanging space and airflow
Verdict: Technically allowed, but casement window is not practical for service yards.
Standard Service Yard Window Dimensions (HDB)
Most HDB service yards fall within these common sizes:
7 ft (W) × 4 ft (H)
8 ft (W) × 4 ft (H)
9 ft (W) × 4 ft (H)
For quotation, send your floorplan over to your window contractor and they can offer you a quotation. Exact measurements should always be taken onsite before window fabrication.
BTO Service Yard Window Rules (Façade Control)
For BTO flats handed over from 1 July 2007 onwards, HDB requires that:
Windows installed must be of similar colour scheme. This is to maintain the external façade uniformity
For more information regarding HDB regulation on service yard window, please refer to HDB webpage here.
Service Yard Window Frame Colours
Commonly approved and used colours include:
Silver
Bronze
White
Black
Custom colours are sometimes used for premium flat.
Service Yard Window Grille Rules (HDB)
If you are installing window grilles at the service yard or balcony parapet, HDB regulations apply. Unless you already install a window at the service yard, window grilles installed must follow HDB approved designs.
For HDB BTO flats handed over from 1 July 2007 onwards:
Grilles must be HDB-approved designs
Designs must follow the Renovation Fact Sheet issued during key collection
Approved grille designs can be viewed via My HDBPage
For more information regarding HDB regulation on service yard window grille, please refer to HDB webpage here.
New Trend: Retractable Mosquito & Cat-Proof Netting for HDB BTO Service Yards
One of the latest trends among HDB and BTO homeowners in Singapore is installing retractable mosquito and cat-proof netting at the service yard. This solution is especially popular for families with pets or those living in areas prone to mosquitoes, insects, or bird intrusion.
Key features of retractable mosquito & cat-proof netting:
Aluminium frame system - Strong, rust-resistant aluminium frames designed for long-term outdoor use in Singapore’s humid climate.
304 stainless steel black mesh -Durable, corrosion-resistant mesh that is fine enough to block mosquitoes and insects, yet strong enough to prevent pet cats from jumping or escaping.
Invisible appearance - Black stainless steel mesh provides better visual transparency, maintaining an open and unobstructed view.
Retractable mechanism - Netting can be opened or retracted when not in use, offering flexibility without permanently blocking the service yard opening.
Maintains airflow and ventilation - Allows natural air circulation while keeping pests, birds, and insects out—ideal for laundry drying areas.
Prevents birds from entering - Helps stop birds from flying in, nesting, or leaving droppings in the service yard.
Number lock for added safety - Comes with a built-in number lock to prevent accidental opening, especially important for households with pets.
Retractable mosquito & cat-proof netting is best for:
Homes with pet cats
Units facing greenery where mosquito or bird is a problem
Price of Retractable Mosquito & Cat-Proof Netting for HDB BTO Service Yards
7 by 4 feet $560
8 by 4 feet $640
9 by 4 feet $720
Buy Retractable Mosquito & Cat-Proof Netting for HDB BTO Service Yards From Ho Ho Today. Call us 67479019 or whatapps us 96319288. For more information, click here!
Safety & Compliance Notes You Should Know About HDB BTO Service Yard Window
Window panel width must comply with safety limits:
Casement window for service yard: 500 mm – 700 mm
Sliding window for service yard: 500 mm – 1200 mm
Why Buy HDB Service Yard Windows from Ho Ho in Singapore?
Ho Ho Engineering & Renovation Works has been serving Singapore homes since 1976.
Why homeowners trust Ho Ho:
HDB-licensed contractor
BCA-registered company
Deep understanding of HDB window regulations
Factory-direct pricing
Installed by experienced installer teams
Showroom available for viewing window systems
Affordable window mechanism starting from $499
Services Included When You Purchase HDB Service Yard Window
On-site measurement
Professional advice on HDB compliance
Dismantling of existing windows
Supply & installation
Window cementing works
Submission of HDB permits
Common Questions About HDB BTO Service Yard Windows
1. What is the best window type for HDB service yard? Sliding windows are the most common and affordable. Folding windows are best for ventilation. Slide & swing windows are premium but costly.
2. Why is sliding window the cheapest option? It uses a simpler track system, fewer moving parts, and is faster to install.
3. Is a folding window better than a slide & swing window for service yards?
For most service yards, yes. Folding windows provide a similarly unobstructed opening and good airflow at a significantly lower price, making them more cost-effective for everyday use. However, the moment you install slide and swing window, the expert know you invest in a premium mechanism.
4. Can I choose the colour of my service yard window frame?No, but the colour must comply with HDB block façade guidelines, especially for BTO flats built after 2007.
5. Are window grilles compulsory for service yards? Window grilles are not compulsory. However, they are highly recommended for households with children under 12 and for low-floor units, where grilles improve safety and security. If installed, all grilles must follow HDB-approved designs.
Final Verdict: Which HDB Service Yard Window Should You Choose?
Budget & simplicity hdb service yard window: Sliding Window ($490)
Best airflow & view bto service yard window: Folding Window ($1,400)
Premium & convenience hdb service yard window: Slide & Swing Window ($2,380)
Price above is for service yard window that is 7 by 4 feet. Price will differ due to size, frame colour and glass used.
If you want a safe, HDB-approved, and practical solution, sliding or folding windows remain the top choices for Singapore homes.
How to get a quotation for your bto service yard window?
Send us your floorplan or dimension via whatapps (96319288) or email (hohoengineering1976@yahoo.com.sg)
Tell us what glass window mechanism you prefer
Want to talk to a friendly expert, call us 67479019 or visit our showroom.
If you want to experience the service yard window mechansim, visit our showroom @194 Pandan Loop #07-07, Singapore 128383 (Mon to Fri 10 to 4pm, Sat 10 to 2pm)
