Choosing windows and doors is not an easy task. There is a wide selection on our market (windows, skylights, balcony doors, entrance doors), but can we extract the key elements from the mass of information that would make our choice easier? This is mainly the price aspect, essential technical features or also the environmental friendliness of the product and, of course, the carbon footprint. What influences the choice of windows and doors?
In addition to essential technical properties, such as waterproofing, air permeability, sound insulation, thermal conductivity, light and solar energy transmission, we should also pay attention to environmental concerns, because we should care if the raw material (wood, PVC, metal, glass) is obtained in a location that is very harmful to the environment, e.g. bare cuts, technologies with harmful emissions, long transport routes. We probably also don’t want dangerous substances to be released in living spaces, e.g. due to coatings on window frames or door jambs and other components of windows and doors.
Our expectations of living in a house or apartment are quite high. We want bright rooms and an evenly lit space with daylight, so that there is no glare and the windows protect us from the dangers of the outside environment, and at the same time we want a beautiful and pleasant view through the windows.
We must not forget regular annual servicing and careful maintenance, even though the windows are metal or aluminum. Windows must be adjusted every year so that the frame and sash are square. Also all moving mechanical parts and seals must be oiled, as this significantly extends their lifespan.
With modern building elements, which can be of very different shapes and sizes, it is necessary to pay attention to technical capabilities and safety in handling, which is especially true for windows of large dimensions. The basic purpose of building elements is protection from external influences (weather influences and safety), as well as visual contact with the outside and ensuring a healthy and comfortable stay. Modern windows are highly energy efficient and comply with the requirements of technical regulations and product standards and are environmentally acceptable.
Therefore, when building a house with large window openings, there is no reason to think about a different design of the house, but, in addition to the right window manufacturer, an installation contractor with appropriate knowledge and experience is crucial.
Watertightness
Improperly sealed or poorly designed windows and doors can cause leaks, leading to interior damage, mold growth and other problems. Watertight windows and doors have special properties that prevent water from finding its way through frames, seals or other weak points. To ensure watertightness, choose windows and doors made of materials that are resistant to water and moisture. For example, PVC and aluminum are less sensitive to moisture than wood, although even wooden windows and doors can achieve a high degree of watertightness if properly treated and maintained. Seals are key to preventing water ingress, so make sure they are of high quality and installed correctly. Check their condition regularly and replace them if necessary. Check for possible damage, wear and tear and clean the drainage channels, which must have an efficient drainage system, which should not be neglected when choosing. This will extend the life of your windows and doors, maintain energy efficiency and prevent the development of mold and other moisture-related problems. Investing in watertight windows and doors is an investment in the comfort, safety and durability of your home.
Air permeability
The fastener, which is placed at the contact between the movable part (e.g. window sash or door) and the frame, plays an important role in reducing the air flow through the contacts. Increased air permeability causes drafts and affects living comfort. Correctly installed and high-quality insulation reduces air permeability, which contributes to better energy efficiency of your home. In the winter months, you will thus save on heating costs, as less warm air will escape from the interior, while in the summer months, less cold air will escape from the air-conditioned rooms. In addition to energy efficiency, the low-air-permeability seal also improves sound insulation, as it prevents the intrusion of noise from the outside. It also helps prevent dust and other allergens from entering the interior, which contributes to better air quality in living spaces. In order to ensure low permeability, it is important to choose high-quality materials such as rubber, silicone or special sealing foams that fit well in the contact between the movable part and the frame.
Wind load
Wind load refers to the forces exerted by the wind on the building structure, including windows and doors. These forces can affect the structural integrity, sealing and overall performance of windows and doors. High winds can cause windows and doors to twist, warp or even break if they are not properly designed or installed. Therefore, it is crucial that windows and doors are made of durable materials that can withstand high wind speeds and pressures. Aluminum, PVC and reinforced glass are among the materials that offer high resistance to wind loads. In addition to the materials, the design is also important, which must be designed to withstand lateral loads. Windows and doors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s regulations and guidelines to ensure their optimal performance.
Transmittance of solar radiation energy
Solar energy transmittance, also known as the solar factor or solar energy transmission coefficient, is a key factor when choosing windows, as it affects how much solar heat passes through the glass into the interior. High permeability means that more heat enters the room, which can help reduce heating costs in colder months, but can cause rooms to overheat and increase cooling costs in warmer months. The efficiency of windows in terms of solar energy transmission depends on several factors, including the type of glass, the coating on the glass and the number of layers of glass. Double- or triple-glazed windows, especially those with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, can significantly reduce the transmission of harmful UV and infrared light, while allowing visible light to pass through. Low-E coatings are thin layers of metal oxides that are applied to the glass and act as heat reflectors, reducing the amount of heat that passes through the window without significantly affecting the transparency of the glass. It is also important to consider the orientation of the building and the size of the windows. Large windows on the south side of the house can significantly increase solar energy gains, while on the north side it is recommended to use windows with a higher insulation value and a lower solar factor, since there is less direct sunlight.
Sound isolation
Sound insulation of windows and doors affects the quality of living in indoor spaces, as it reduces the passage of noise from the outside. This is particularly important in urban areas where noise levels are usually higher due to traffic, industry or other sources. Windows and doors with good sound insulation contribute to a quieter and more comfortable living environment. It mainly depends on the materials, the thickness of the glass, the number of glass layers and seals. Double- or triple-glazed windows offer better sound insulation compared to single-glazed windows, as multiple layers of glass and air spaces between them help absorb and reflect sound waves. Using different thicknesses of glass in the same unit, known as asymmetric glazing, can further improve sound insulation, as different thicknesses of glass absorb different frequencies of sound. In addition, laminated glass, where two layers of glass are connected by a sound-insulating foil, have even better properties, as the foil helps dampen sound. Seals also play a key role – high-quality ones prevent the passage of air, which is the carrier of sound, and thus reduce noise. Correct installation is important to ensure a tight fit and seal. Soundproofing is especially important in spaces where silence is key, such as bedrooms, home offices or relaxation areas. In addition to external noise, sound insulation can also help reduce internal noise between different rooms in a house or apartment. Effective sound insulation contributes to better sleep, greater productivity and general comfort.
Don’t forget about blinds
Blinds protect living spaces from overheating in the summer months and serve as additional thermal protection in the winter. Therefore, when choosing shades, do not only take into account the basic technical features and appearance, but also the needs and requirements for permeability for the energy and light part of solar radiation. You can choose from blinds such as shutters, internal and external blinds, awnings, pleats, foils and lamellar curtains. In addition to blinds, mosquito nets can also be integrated.
For more information or a consultation, please contact us; Phone: 00386-40-626-131, E-mail: tajnistvo@bazarealestate.com.
