One of the choices that makes the biggest impact on an architectural project is the choice of windows and doors. Not just the size and location, which provide light, access and visual connection between inside and out, but the type and finish of the window or door. These days there are many choices and without some guidance it can feel a little overwhelming. In this blog we’d like to share with you some of the areas to consider.
1. Heat loss. Installation of external doors and windows comes under Building Regulations and these have to meet a minimum standard to reduce heat loss and provide security. Depending upon the project, at In Ex Design we sometimes find that our clients seek to exceed these minimum standards as heat loss through windows can make a considerable impact on the comfort of a building.
2. Materials. There are three main choices of frame material: timber, metal or plastic. But there are also different types of timber or metal or indeed you could choose hybrid windows that have a timber frame internally and metal externally. Each choice of frame material has different characteristics: structural capabilities, maintenance requirements, size of frame, aesthetics and cost.
3. Glazing. Double glazing is now the standard for new windows as single glazing just can’t provide the minimum level of thermal efficiency and are also prone to condensation. We are finding that as thermal efficiency requirements are improving, and our clients are more aware of the importance of reducing heat loss in their homes, there is now more interest in triple glazing. Triple glazed windows can significantly reduce heat loss of a building and provide enhanced levels of acoustic dampening.
4. Paint finishes. Modern paint finishes allow for almost any colour imagined and frame colours can be chosen to work with the palette of the room. This opens up the range of options available and it can be difficult to know what to pick as it is not so easy to recoat if you change your mind!
5. Insulation. Glass treatments are becoming more important as areas of glazing increase and levels of insulation improve, as there can be a risk of overheating. This can be worse during the UK spring and autumn seasons when we have those sunny but cold days. The sun streams through the glass and heats the room, but you don’t want to open the window and you end up with a greenhouse effect that can potentially overheat the room. This can be managed by coating the glass so that it keeps the light coming through but reduces the heat coming through.
As you can see there are many considerations, and coupled with the large expenditure of windows and doors, it can be a daunting process.
If this is something that you would need assistance with as part of your renovation or extension, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
You can contact us on 01395 233807 or email us at info@inexdesign.co.uk