Windows - Standard Information

Window Functions

Windows serve a number of key roles in a building:

• Light Access: Windows provide access to natural light, which improves living comfort and helps save on artificial lighting costs.
• Ventilation: The ability to open windows allows for free airflow, which improves indoor air quality.
• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Windows with proper insulation properties help retain heat in the building, reducing heating costs. Good windows also protect against external noise.
• Security: Windows provide a physical barrier against unwanted intruders. Modern technologies enable the production of burglar-resistant windows, increasing building security.
• Aesthetics: Windows have a significant impact on a building's exterior appearance. Their shape, size, material, and opening style influence the overall aesthetics and character of the facade.

Types of Windows

There are several basic types of windows, each with its own characteristics and applications:

• Tilt Windows: This is the most commonly found window type in apartments. A tilt window opens inward or outward at an angle to the frame. These windows are easy to use and provide good ventilation, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Swing Windows: Swing windows are mounted on hinges and open to the side, usually inward. They provide excellent sealing, which is important for energy savings. Swing windows also offer better acoustic insulation.
• Sliding Windows: Commonly found in modern homes and apartments. They are very functional, especially in rooms with limited space.
• Balcony and Terrace Windows: These are larger windows that allow access to a balcony or terrace. They can take the form of doors that also function as windows. This type of window is ideal for single-family homes and apartments where spaciousness and access to natural light are key.
• Roof Windows: Roof windows are installed in sloped roofs, usually in attic spaces. They allow light into areas under the roof. Roof windows can be tilt or pivot and are available in manual and automated versions.

Window Materials

Windows can be made from various materials that affect their durability, insulation, and appearance. The most common materials are:

• Wood: Wooden windows feature a natural look and excellent thermal insulation properties. Wood is a highly aesthetic material, but wooden windows require regular maintenance to retain their properties over many years.
• PVC (Plastic): Plastic windows are one of the most commonly chosen materials in construction. They are durable, easy to maintain, and offer good thermal and acoustic insulation properties. PVC windows are also more affordable compared to wooden ones.
• Aluminum: Aluminum windows are lightweight, weather-resistant, and very durable. Aluminum allows for sleek, elegant frames, making it ideal for modern architecture. However, aluminum windows have poorer thermal insulation properties compared to wood or PVC, but modern aluminum windows feature specialized thermal insulation systems.

Thermal and Acoustic Insulation

The choice of windows significantly impacts a building’s energy efficiency. Modern windows provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to retain heat inside and reduce heating costs. High-insulation windows feature multi-layered glazing that effectively prevents heat loss. Another important feature of modern windows is acoustic insulation, which enhances comfort by protecting against external noise.