An Architect’s Guide on How to Choose Windows for New Construction

An Architect’s Guide on How to Choose Windows for New Construction

If you’re looking for an architect’s guide to windows, you’ve come to the right place! From Sash Windows, Double Hung Windows, to Hopper Windows, you will have a better understanding of the different types of windows and materials and will be able to choose the best windows for your newly constructed home!

Window Types and Technologies with its Operating Types

 

  1. European Tilt & Turn Window

    Tilt and turn windows are unique in the sense they open on two different axis. The window can be tilted open, usually from the top, allowing for excellent ventilation and airflow, even during rainfall. The window tilts open in this manner to maximize the efficiency of air circulation, bringing cool air towards the ceiling and pushing the warm air down, creating the circular air movement desired for clean fresh air flow. The window can also be opened fully on a side axis, which is most often used for cleaning the window’s exterior or for the ability to escape a room via the window in the case of an emergency. Tilt and turn style windows account for the majority of windows purchased in many European countries, however, this technology has yet to be adopted on a wide scale in North America.

  2. Fixed or Picture Window

    A Fixed Window is a non-operable unit, meaning it consists of a stationary window frame that can not be opened. A Picture Window is also a non-operable window however, in comparison, large picture windows usually have a lower profile frame, maximizing the glass surface to create clear, unobstructed views. Fixed Windows are often aligned with operable windows of the same style and size to create expansive and open views across a wide space and allow for ample natural light to enter the room. Non-operable windows can also be manufactured in larger sizes as the frame does not need to support heavy-duty hinge hardware that would permit thicker glass units to rotate and open.

  3. Sash Window

    • Single hung windowsA Single Hung Sash Window refers to a window unit in which there are two sashes, one is operable and the other is non-operable. The most common example of this type of unit is one in which the bottom half of the window can be unlatched and slid upward, in alignment with the upper non-operable sash to allow for airflow into the room.
    • Double hung windowsA Double Hung Window uses the same window design as a Single Hung Window, however, both the two sash units are operable. The most common example is a window that can be unlatched and the lower sash slid upward and the upper sash slid downward.
  4. Slider Window

    • Single Sliding WindowsSingle Slide Window units have two sash units, side-by-side, which open horizontally and consist of one operable sash and one non-operable sash.
    • Double Sliding WindowDouble Slide Window units have two sash units, side-by-side, which open horizontally and consist of two operable sashes.
  5. Casement Window

    Casement Windows are attached to their frame via one or more hinges and open using a crank mechanism. They can be opened to varying angles based on how many times the crank is turned.

  6. Awning Window

    Awning Windows are Casement Windows that are hinged at the top and swing open outward via the turning of a crank mechanism.

  7. Hopper Window

    A Hopper Window refers to a small horizontal window, usually installed in either the basement or in a bathroom, that opens from the top. The bottom of the window swings outward while the top of the window swings inward when opened.

     

Window Materials and Performance

  • UPVC Frames

FENETRES UPVC is affordable, extremely durable, easy to care for, not affected by moisture, has a low conductivity, and is very flexible under high heat, permitting for unique shaping and design opportunities.

  • Aluminum Frames

Aluminum is lightweight, offers a high degree of stability, can be offered in a range of different surface treatments, and can provide narrow frames for expansive views.

  • Wood Frames

Wood frames are a frame material that offers natural beauty and a cozy feel. Wood is a less modern window material however it has low thermal conductivity and high strength. The concern with full wooden frames is longevity with the possibility of rot and deterioration over time.

  • Hybrid Frames

Hybrid frames such as UPVC – Aluminum or Wood – Aluminium are becoming more common in parts of the world as they combine the strengths of different materials to provide a combination of performance and esthetic pleasure. An example would be an Aluminum – Wood window frame with aluminum on the exterior of the home, providing excellent resistance to weather and water elements, with a beautiful wood frame on the interior that perfectly matches the flooring or furniture of the room in which it is contained. As with any of the above materials, the most important factor is the window systems design of the window unit itself. There are low-performing and high-performing windows of the 4 materials listed above for which the number of glass panes, the thickness of the glass, the composition of the frame extrusion, air seal tightness, and, other factors will ultimately determine the quality of the unit itself.

Aesthetics – Components of a Beautiful Window

 

  • Color / Texture

The world’s top window manufacturers are capable of creating vast scales of color options based on the material composition of the frame. For example, UPVC can be wrapped in a “foil” that can almost literally be any color or grain texture desired. There are obvious limitations and manufacturers have their standard series of options, however, the technology permits near limitless variety. Aluminum can also be powder coated via an electrostatic charge process that adheres to the surface providing a wide range of color options, based on the powder selected, and this process even improves the durability of the aluminum frame creating an external barrier between the elements and the aluminum surface.

  • Wood Grain

For wood enthusiasts, there is likely nothing more appealing than a wood frame window. Whether the frame is made of spruce, oak, ash, walnut, larch, or other varieties, you can match the color to the interior décor elements for a design that stands out. The wood can be stained to a variety of different hues to hit exactly the color note desired. For some, who appreciate the texture of wood but would prefer something other than the natural grain pattern to show through, wood frames can be painted in many colors, the most popular being white, cream, or black.

  • Opacity

Another aspect rarely considered during the window selection process is the style of glass within the unit. Glass can be manufactured in a variety of different hues, and opacities and can have varying functional performance such as anti-glare to prevent interior glare from happening, and you can even get an insulated glass unit with improved thermal insulation, shatterproof lamination, etc. Not all manufacturers offer these different features and they usually come at an added cost, however, the glass itself can be curated to fit your exact needs via certain suppliers.

Efficacité énergétique

  • Thermal Transmittance (U-value):

    The U-value, also known as thermal transmittance, is the rate of transfer of heat through a structure divided by the difference in temperature across that structure, often expressed in the units of measurement W/m2K. In simplistic terms, the lower the U-value on a window unit, the better that window is at restricting heat exchange between the exterior and interior of your home, reducing the energy required to both heat and cool your residence. When comparing window options, look for the lowest U-value possible!

  • Visual Light Transmittance (VLT):

    VLT is a percentage-based expression that provides a measure of how much visible light passes through the glass and into your home. Now for many, a high amount of light penetrating your home is a good thing as it brightens the space and makes it feel more open, however, that high transfer rate is usually accompanied by a high solar heat gain coefficient which can drastically reduce the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. Have you ever had to move away from a window during the summer because it was simply too hot? This was likely due to a high VLT rating. Unlike with U-values, there is not a simple “good or bad”, however, there are glass technologies such as special coatings that have less solar heat without overly restricting the amount of visible light into your home.

Conclusion: Benefits of Choosing the European Window for your Home

European Tilt & Turn Windows are not only beautiful windows, but they also offer the most advanced window technology and functionality available. If you require an operable window, it is highly likely a tilt and turns solution will provide the ventilation and emergency evacuation needs you require. Also, turn limiters can be added to these units to prevent the window from being opened past a certain radial degree, which is ideal for concerns with small children. With all of its benefits and features, European Tilt & Turn Windows are an excellent choice for your home!

Security – Four-sided interlocking operable window units are without a doubt one of the most secure additions to your home. Most residential window units have one or two latch points that secure an operable sash to the frame, whereas a four-sided interlocking unit has at least 8 latching points distributed throughout the entirety of the frame itself and are entirely self-contained and invisible when the unit is closed.

High Energy Efficiency – For the highest levels of energy efficiency for your home, you should consider triple-pane window panes with U-values below 1.0 W/m2K. The top market performers can achieve U-values in the 0.60 W/m2K range and these units are available for the supplier to the average consumer base.

Longevity – The duration of your window frames will vary on climate, weather conditions, regular maintenance, and material composition, however, you can create optimal conditions for your environment with sturdy, heavy, triple-pane windows with metal hardware such as is available on certain European triple-pane products.

I-tec Ventilation

I-Tec Ventilation For Your Windows

Ventilation is the provision for circulation of fresh air within any habitable architectural structure. There are two kinds of ventilation: Mechanical and Natural Ventilation. Mechanical ventilation is when there are fans and exhausts to drive in or drive out fresh/stale air respectively, for air circulation. Second is, Natural Ventilation where there is an intentional passive air flow into the building which is planned for air circulation.

Then there is mixed ventilation mode which utilizes both Natural and Mixed ventilation systems for optimal air quality. Internorm’s unique I-tec Ventilation system is one step beyond: it has a heat exchanger integrated into the window system to avail more efficient air circulation than a natural ventilation does. This is a boon for homes in extreme weather conditions-cold or hot, when the weather does not permit opening or closing of the windows for a long time.

How does I-tec Ventilation ensure Energy Efficiency?

Internorm windows’ ventilation mechanism- fitted with a heat exchanger, is completely integrated into the window frame system. This supplies the interior with fresh air on a demand basis and makes it comfortable while simultaneously keeping the heat loss to a minimum.

Unregulated quick air exchange or permanent air leakage can lead to massive thermal and energy loss. Thus the heat exchanger is a safety net with an almost 93% heat recovery. It also reduces the energy losses to a minimum.

With I-Tec ventilation feature of the Internorm windows, rooms are ventilated automatically, thermally efficiently, and according to your personal specification.

How does this system contribute to your health?

Fresh air ensures clearer minds, better sleeping, increased concentration and generally improved performance. Allergy and hay fever sufferers can breathe clearly again by choosing the option of filters in the I-tech ventilation. This prevents fine dust and flower pollen from coming into your home. Due to the regulated I-Tec ventilation your home’s air quality will significantly improve.

Does integrating this system spoil the design?

No, only a narrow ventilation grid is visible on the outside and inside of the window. The windows look classy and modern without compromising the energy efficient,high-performance.

I-tec Ventilation

The ventilator is fitted during the installation of the windows and not after they are installed. This ensures the intactness of the design.

The I-Tec ventilator is fully concealed and integrated into the window systems KF 500, KF 410 et KV 440.

Does this system have any safety and security features?

Yes, the I-Tec ventilation system has tight security benefits. Due to the window staying closed during the air exchange and therefore, the locks remain engaged to ensure maximum protection against break in. When leaving the house there is no uncertainty as to whether the windows have been left open after airing, therefore giving ultimate peace of mind that your home is properly secure.

 What are the other comfort factors that come along with I-tec Vent?

Windows that boast integrated I-Tec ventilation give your home a constant supply of clean, fresh air. Alternatively, damp, used air, unpleasant smells and pollutants are sucked out of your home and exchanged for fresh air. The control component is fitted to the window to enabling easy usage and convenient operation when ventilating your home. I-Tec ventilation can be controlled via the Smart Window App on your tablet or smart phone for incredibly easy usage.

The optional installation of filters prevents any fine dust or flower pollen from penetrating. The fan can be easily operated via a discreet control element attached directly to the window.

Can you covert these windows into smart windows?

Of course, yes! Internorm is a smart window product line!

If you want your home to be a more comfortable place , then Internorm’s I-tec SmartWindow could be a perfect solution. With this intelligent building control technology you can conveniently operate your windows’s ventilation and shading via your smartphone, tablet or PC – whether you’re at home or away.

Convenience is at the heart of Internorm’s I-tec SmartWindow. The easy-to-install system can be hooked up via your router to give you instant control of a range of features – from I-tec ventilation (giving you fresh air with minimal heat loss) and integral blinds through to fan light opening. You can roll shades up or down at the swipe of a screen and adjust the internal temperature to suit your requirements. The setup can be fitted with weather, temperature and humidity sensors to provide intelligent ventilation, too.

Furthermore, the technology can be extended to other home automation elements, such as dimmer lighting – you can fully adjust the living environment according to how you want to use a given room. Every element is controllable individually, but you can also pre-program various modes to suit activities such as watching movies, party set up, etc. You can even set up holiday modes so the house looks lived in while you’re away.

Whether you’re considering on renovation or new home building project, Internorm’s I-tec ventilation is the way to go! This integrated SmartWindow technology provides you the ability to make quick, convenient adjustments to the climate and atmosphere in your living spaces and hence, is a great choice!

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