Open Windows & Doors

To Repair or to Replace Your Windows?

OWD_admin — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 14:59:01 +0000

Whether you are building or renovating and want to keep your old windows or if your windows are showing signs of wear and tear, you may be faced with the dilemma of whether to repair them or undertake a complete window replacement. Sometimes, just minor repairs can make your windows as good as new, and other times they might be completely beyond repair. At Open Windows and Doors, we are the local choice for windows replacement Perth homes and businesses know and trust. Here’s our guide to when you should repair and when you must replace your windows.

When You Should Repair

If a window can open then it has moving parts which can undergo a significant amount of wear and tear over time. However, wear and tear doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace a window completely. You should consider repairs if:

The Glass is Old, Cracked or Chipped

While a cracked pane of a glass in a window may seem troublesome to fix, it certainly does not mean you need to replace your whole window. Fitting new glass is a quick and affordable repair that will make your windows flawless and looking like new again.

When You Must Replace

They Lack Energy Efficiency

Older style timber windows may not be as energy efficient as modern aluminium windows. Timber frames can rot and if they even exist, seals can easily break down. If your old windows are letting the hot or cold air out of the house, they are no longer energy efficient and will lead to rising power bills.

If You Want to Add Value to Your Home

You wish to modernise your home to add value for reselling purposes, installing new windows will make a huge difference to the visual appeal and value of your property. If potential buyers see old windows, they may assume they aren’t energy efficient and think they will have to come up with the additional money to replace them. Making your home attractive to buyers will drive up the sale price and replacement windows are a simple way to do this.

Windows that drag or stick can be a terrible inconvenience and scratched or damaged frames can look unsightly and devalue your property. If you’re looking to convert existing openings to modern windows or if you are after a whole-house windows replacement that adds that final touch to your Perth renovation, then we have the aluminium solution for you.

The Open Windows and Doors team are the experts at supplying and installing new replacement windows across Perth. Offering high quality windows and doors, we can provide solutions that will seamless integrate into your home or renovation. Get in touch with us today by completing our online contact form or call 1300 180 280 or advice or a quotation request for windows replacement in Perth.

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Why Powder Coating is the Best Finish for Your Aluminium Windows and Doors

OWD_admin — Sat, 14 Mar 2020 13:12:35 +0000

Powder coating is one of the most common and most popular types of paint application processes, especially when it comes to aluminium windows and doors. At Open Windows and Doors, we are Perth’s leading manufacturer of commercial and residential aluminium bi-fold doors, stackers, sliding and French doors as well as sliding, awning and louvre windows. Let’s look at the process of powder coating as well as the benefits a powder coated finish can bring to your doors and windows.

What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is applied as a free-flowing powder in a completely dry form, you can think of it as paint with the solvent part removed. The coating is applied electrostatically and then cured under heat. Usually powder is used to coat metals, but there are a number of other potential applications.

What Does the Process Involve?

The powder coating process on our aluminium windows and doors is a relatively simple yet effective process that involves three primary stages.

Pre-Treatment – This involves the removal of all foreign particles, dust, and grease. The goal here is to have the surface be as clean as possible so as to maximise adhesion.
Application – The powder coating finish is applied via a finely mixed collection of pigmented powder. The powder material bonds to aluminium extrusions, completing the finishing addition.
Curing – The coating will be cured by way of a high-temperature oven. The powder is melted during this process which leads it to form a hardened coating after the material cools down.

What Are the Benefits of Powder Coating?

Powder coating not only allows you to improve the look of your windows and doors, but there are other many benefits as well.

Durability – Powder coating allows your windows and doors to hold up against harsh climatic elements and the general wear and tear of day to day use. Some are also ideal for homes in coastal locations with a lot of salt in the air. Many powder coating finishes come backed with guarantees of 15, 25 or even 40 years.

Low Maintenance – Besides a regular clean, there is no sanding, staining or re-painting needed to keep the colour looking its best. A simple clean on a regular basis is all it takes.

Eco-Friendly – The powder that does not adhere to the surface is collected and reused, meaning that there is little waste. And since the coating process happens in a sealed environment, there is little to no risk of air pollution.

Design Flexibility – Modern powder coated aluminium windows are available in a huge range of colours, textures and shades. With hundreds of colours to choose from you can easily match your windows and doors to the colour scheme of your home. Many colours are also available as gloss, satin or matt finishes as well for even greater design flexibility.

Depth of Colour – powder coating provides a much deeper and richer colour, even in white.

Whether you require standard white gloss, matt black or windows and doors in the latest colours, a powder coated finish offers solutions not just in colour but also durability and weather protection.

At Open Windows and Doors, we have been manufacturing aluminium windows and doors for homes and businesses across Perth. Our experienced team can provide expert advice on products, hardware and finishes including powder coating so you get the highest quality doors and windows for your needs and budget. If you’d like to know more about the benefits of powder coating or to discuss the requirements for your aluminium doors and windows, contact us today on 1300 180 280 or send us an enquiry online.

The post Why Powder Coating is the Best Finish for Your Aluminium Windows and Doors appeared first on Open Windows & Doors.

The 4 Key Advantages of Aluminium Windows and Doors

OWD_admin — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 01:42:42 +0000

Are you building a new home or looking to upgrade your current windows and doors? With so many styles and materials available on the market it can be confusing to work out which is the best option for you. At Open Windows and Doors, we offer a complete range of architecturally-designed commercial and residential products including premium aluminium windows and doors to businesses and homes across Perth and WA. Lightweight, low-maintenance and modern in design, the new generation of aluminium windows and doors are attractive, affordable and above all, highly energy efficient. Read on to find out more about the main advantages of choosing aluminium doors for your home or building.

Durability

Aluminium is extraordinarily resistant to harsh weather conditions and has a high resistance to corrosion. Unlike many other materials, aluminium will not swell, crack, split or warp over time, ensuring a long product life. Aluminium doors are the perfect for choice for those looking for a robust, low-maintenance option that will still look as good as new in many years to come.

Design Flexibility

Due to the way aluminium is manufactured, aluminium windows and doors can easily meet your exact design specifications while maintaining the inherent strength of the material. Aluminium doors can be manufactured to almost any size and style required to meet your design brief. There is also a large variety of customisations from glazing and hardware options to finishes in a wide range of colours.

Affordability

Aluminium is an ideal, economical solution for windows and doors in any domestic or commercial application. Compared to other frame options, such as timber, aluminium is considerably more affordable.

Environmentally Friendly

Aluminium is a fully sustainable material, and it is non-toxic and 100% recyclable. Additionally, the recycling process of aluminium requires just five percent of the initial energy consumed to create it. This differentiates it from other framing materials and reinforces its sustainability rating. Aluminium is the perfect option for those looking for an eco-friendly solution for their new windows and doors.

If you are looking for aluminium windows and doors for your Perth home get in touch with Open Windows and Doors today. With over 100 years of combined industry experience, we provide a full service solution from design through to delivery and installation. Call us today on 1300 180 280 or enquire online.

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Building or Renovating – Things You Should Know About Aluminium Windows

OWD_admin — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 09:30:44 +0000

Contemporary in design and aesthetic, modern aluminium windows are cost-effective, highly functional and require minimal maintenance. Open Windows and Doors have been a leading supplier of aluminium windows in Perth since 2012. If you are building or renovating and considering installing aluminium windows, here’s a few things you should know.

They Are Incredibly Durable

Aluminium is a lightweight material yet it’s incredibly strong and robust. Capable of resisting every day wear and tear that other windows may be susceptible to, aluminium windows are corrosion resistant and weatherproof. They can last for decades and require minimal maintenance. When coated in a suitable anodised or powder-coat finish, aluminium windows and doors are resistant to corrosion from rain and weathering from heat and UV rays, making it suitable for use in our harsh Western Australian climate and extreme coastal areas.

They Maximise Views

Aluminium windows are capable of much slimmer frame members than timber or uPVC windows, meaning more light can enter rooms less obstructed views – perfect for darker houses and homes that wish to enhance views to surrounding gardens and outdoor areas.

They Can Be Easily Recycled

One of the world’s most easily recyclable materials, aluminium windows can be melted down and turned into other useful products at the end of their lifespan as windows. This makes them a great option for eco-friendly homes.

They Provide Increased Security

Aluminium itself is an incredibly strong material, however, by incorporating multi-point locking systems and additional security features such as shoot bolts and security screens, aluminium windows offer exceptional levels of safety and security. The strength of aluminium windows will make your property far more secure and far less likely to be appealing for potential thieves.

Facts About Aluminium

There’s no doubting that aluminium is one of the best materials for your windows and doors. Aside from the impressive benefits outlined above, here’s a few facts about the material itself that you may find interesting:

It is the most abundant mineral on Earth after oxygen and silicon and is present in more than 270 minerals. It is also the most abundant metal found naturally on Earth.
The process for creating commercially viable aluminium was invented in 1886 and is still used today.
Approximately 75% of all aluminium ever created, is still in use today.
Aluminium is around a third of the weight of steel or copper.
Aluminium is very ductile, and it may be shaped into everything from bicycle frames to kitchen utensils.

At Open Windows and Doors, we offer a complete range of aluminium windows in Perth, including bifold windows, sliding windows, louvre windows and more. Also complemented by a wide array of custom aluminium doors for domestic or commercial use. If you’re looking for the best windows for your new home or renovation project and would like more information, contact us for a no obligation quotation or visit our Canning Vale showroom today.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Install Bi-Fold Doors

OWD_admin — Fri, 29 Nov 2019 14:13:45 +0000

Bi-fold doors are a popular design choice for many Australian homes and it’s easy to see why. Solid in construction and easy to operate, aluminium bi-fold doors are a stylish solution for maximising space and creating the perfect indoor/outdoor living area for year round entertaining. At Open Windows and Doors, we have years of experience supplying aluminium bi-fold doors to create light, open and flexible spaces in many homes across Perth. Are you considering bi-fold doors for your home? Read on for our reasons why you should!

They Create the Perfect Indoor/Outdoor Living Area

When open, bi-fold doors remove the barrier between your outdoor alfresco area and your indoor living space, creating one big entertaining area. When closed, the huge expanse of glass also provides a panoramic view of the outdoors.

You Can Tailor Bi-fold Doors to Suit Your Style

Aluminium bi-fold doors offer a huge amount choice when it comes to style. The durable powder coated finish is available in hundreds of colours so you can customise your bi-fold doors to suit the colour scheme and décor of your home.

They Flood Your Home with Natural Light

Whether open or closed, bi-fold doors allow maximum sunlight into your home turning a normally dark room into a bright and airy space. Aluminium bi-fold doors tend to have very slim frames, which gives the added bonus of a minimal amount of shadow cast inside by the door frames.

They Create the Illusion of Space

While bi-fold doors are generally used in larger openings, they are also perfect for more compact areas. They can help to create the illusion of more space because the slim frames and large expanses of glass help to draw the eye beyond the end of the room and into the outdoor area.

They are Modern and Stylish

Sleek and contemporary, installing bi-fold doors is a great way of modernising older properties, while the simplistic and minimalistic appearance of new homes will also be enhanced by bi-fold doors.

They Take Up Little Space Around the Entrance

Bi-fold doors fold back in a concertina effect so they take up only a very small amount of space when opened. This is great for maximising living space.

You Can Install Them Inside

Bi-fold doors are a practical and stylish solution for dividing up a room. Great for large open plan living areas, use them to separate off two rooms and have the option to open up them up for maximum space when needed.

They Increase Security

Featuring multi-point locking systems, internally beaded frames and high-security hinges, bi-fold doors will keep your home safe and secure.

They’re Easy to Maintain

Aluminium bi-fold doors require minimal maintenance. Each panel comprises of a frame and a single pane of glass so they all need is a regular wipe down to keep them looking spotless.

They Provide Seamless Operation

Modern aluminium bi-fold doors are designed with superior running systems which allow the doors to slide and open smoothly. High quality bi-fold doors often also include child-safe features to prevent fingers getting trapped between leaves when the doors are folded open.

Let the light in and link your garden to your interior with stunning bi-fold doors. At Open Windows and Doors, we are the experts in high quality aluminium bi-fold doors. To find out more about our folding doors and our door installation services in Perth, get in touch today. Call us on 1300 180 280 or enquire online.

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Using Commercial Windows in Residential Properties

OWD_admin — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 04:08:39 +0000

A common misconception about commercial windows is that they’re the same, just slightly larger, than residential windows, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Commercial windows have a lot of differences when compared to residential windows, however that doesn’t mean they cannot be used in a domestic setting. At Open Windows and Doors, we are Perth’s leading supplier of residential and commercial aluminium windows, let’s take a look at the differences between the two and why you might opt for commercial windows for your home.

What Are the Differences Between Residential and Commercial Windows?

At first glance, many commercial windows may appear quite similar in appearance to residential windows, but when you take a closer look there are a few significant differences including:

Frame and sash sizes – commercial window frames are usually wider, bulkier and have a slightly more industrial look when compared with the standard residential frames.

Window opening size – residential windows are traditionally used in homes or building renovation projects where window openings are not very large. By contrast the bold, square, chunky window systems you typically see in office buildings and shopfronts can span wider openings.

Thermal insulation – commercial windows are designed to limit the amount of solar heat that enters a property this is due to commercial properties generating a lot of interior heat from crowds, lighting, computers and electrical outlets. Sunlight that enters a commercial property can cause many overheating issues if not correctly counteracted. Residential properties, on the other hand, rely on sunlight for heating, and they are not crowded nor do they create a lot of interior heat. Commercial windows require special coatings, high-performance glazing and other measures to limit the amount of solar radiation that enters the property.

Commercial windows are also required to have higher wind ratings and although not always the case, commercial windows often come complete with higher quality hardware.

Why Choose Commercial Windows for Your Home?

The reasons why you might opt for a commercial window system over a residential one for your home may include:

Aesthetics – home owners may prefer the look of bulkier, squarer looking frames which are well suited to modern, contemporary architectural designs.
Performance – larger framing can often allow for greater glass thickness whether it be single or double glazed which can help to improve overall thermal performance.
Size – The option to create bigger windows is also a major factor which influences the selection and specification of commercial systems.

Unless you have a specific requirement you must meet, choosing one over the other is a matter of personal preference and budget. Increasingly home owners are opting for wider, bolder frames and sash designs traditionally associated with commercial style windows for use in their home or domestic building project.

If you would like more advice on how commercial windows could work for your property, then contact the professionals at Open Windows and Doors. We are Perth’s leading supplier of residential and commercial windows, with many years’ experience supplying high quality, functional aluminium products to homes and businesses all over Perth we have the window solution for your requirements. Give us a call today on 1300 180 280 and book a consultation with our window experts.

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Can Double Glazing Help to Reduce Your Heating Bill?

OWD_admin — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 21:20:11 +0000

One of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient and reduce the amount of energy you use is to ensure your home is properly insulated. High quality double glazed windows are an effective solution that will help to lower your energy bills as they reduce the amount of heat can escape through your windows. All houses will lose some heat through their windows and doors but you can take measures to reduce this as much as possible. Open Windows and Doors are experts in double glazing, offering double glazed windows specifically designed to keep the maximum amount of heat in your home, providing excellent thermal protection and helping you save money during the cold winter months.

Double Glazing in Winter

Double glazing can save you money in the summer by reducing the loss of cool air generated by your air conditioning, however it is even more valuable in winter. When the temperature drops, we crank up our heating to keep those inside warm and comfortable. However, when warm air hits a single pane of glass, it is easily drawn outside into the colder air. Double glazing significantly reduces heat loss in winter, meaning your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard and that results in significant savings on heating bills.

How Does Double Glazing Reduce Heat Loss?

Up to 70% of the heat in your home can be lost through windows and doors so this is where double glazing becomes hugely beneficial. Double glazing is designed to slow heat flow, making your home more energy efficient. Using advanced technology, the inner pane of glass is specifically designed to reduce the amount of heat that is lost through the window while the outer pane still allows heat from the sun to penetrate through and into your home. Two panes of glass make the window more insulated, as the thicker the glass is, the more difficult it is for heat to pass through it. Double glazing also traps air in between the two panes of glass, creating an insulating barrier that will stop heat being lost.

How Much Will I Save by Double Glazing My Windows?

The costs and savings will be different for every home, depending on its size and the quality of the double glazing. It’s estimated that on a standard house, you can save approximately $200-300 per year, with double glazing. Cost savings are also dependant on other factors within your home including:

The climatic conditions in your location — temperature, humidity, sunshine and wind
The building design of your home — the orientation, form and layout of the building
The building materials used — the amount of mass and insulation
The size and location of windows and shading

The Long Term Benefits of Double Glazing

While double glazed windows may cost more to install initially, a lot of the insulations costs can be saved over the lifetime of double glazed windows. Double glazing should be viewed as a long-term investment. They also add to the resale value of your home, not only adding to the energy efficiency rating of your property but increasing aesthetic appeal. While the initial cost may be off putting its important to think of the long term benefits installing new double glazing will bring to your home.

If you are wanting to increase the energy efficiency of your home and see yearly savings on your heating and cooling bills, then double glazed windows and doors are the obvious choice for your home. For professional advice on double glazing Perth homes and businesses know and trust, contact the friendly team at Open Windows and Doors today.

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Signs You Should Upgrade or Replace Your Windows

OWD_admin — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 08:00:39 +0000

If you have a home that is over 20 years old with the original windows, there’s a good chance you may be in need of a window upgrade, even if they don’t show the obvious signs of age. Additionally, even if your home isn’t that old, you may still be in need of new windows so it’s a great idea to check their condition occasionally. Run down, old or damaged windows not only detract from the visual appeal of your home, they may also pose a security risk, and importantly they may seriously impact the overall comfort of your home and its energy efficiency. Let’s take a look at some tips to help identify whether your windows need to be replaced.

Rising Energy Bills

As the temperature drops during winter and rises during the summer, heating and cooling bills will do the same, however if your windows are on the older side, it’s likely that much of the warm or cool air produced by your heater and air conditioner is going to waste which means so is your money. Older windows are generally single pane and prone to leaks, so replacing them with newer windows especially with double glazing, will mean an increase in energy efficiency saving you loads on your power bills.

Difficult Window Operation

Are your windows becoming harder to open and close? If it requires a bit of force and pressure to open, it’s time to replace them. Windows that have become hard to open is a sign that tracks have worn out, hardware has seized up or timber has started to swell. Opening your windows should not be a struggle, they should open and close effortlessly.

Drafts

If you feel a breeze when standing by your window, chances are you have an air leak. You can verify this easily with a burning candle. If the smoke moves when you hold it close to your window, this is a sign of a leak. Replacing your old leaky windows with new windows will ensure a tight seal, and with the addition of double glazing your home will stay much warmer and you will have a lower power bill!

More External Noise

The best energy efficient windows will absorb sound waves before they enter your home, so if you are hearing every car, sneeze, or footstep that happens outside of your home, the seals are very possibly damaged. If you live in a particular noisy area, it might be a great idea to consider double glazing your new windows as this will dramatically increase sound proofing and help with noise cancellation.

Fading of Carpet, Furniture and Window Furnishings

Older windows may not have glazing options that keep out UV rays leading to colours of carpet blinds or furniture fading. By upgrading to laminated glass you can eliminate most of the sun’s damaging UVA rays which helps minimize the fading of your interior. Low E glass and tinted glass options will also reduce some UV as well as reducing natural sunlight which also plays a part in fading.

Advantages of Replacing Your Windows

If you have any or all of the above signs in your home, then you need to replace your windows. New, modern windows have many benefits including:

Improved energy efficiency. Modern glass, and even better, double glazed windows combined with new sealing techniques will ensure your windows can cut down on energy costs tremendously.
Improved comfort. For the same reasons, new windows can keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Increased safety and security. Older glass is weaker and tends to shatter in an unsafe way. Modern glass is stronger, keeping you and your family safer.

Windows are an investment that will boost the value of your home and significantly improve its visual appeal, they will also increase the amount of natural light in your house, help with noise cancellation and significantly increase energy efficiency. Whether you are trying to improve your home’s appearance or save money on your energy bills, a window upgrade is a great project that is sure to pay dividends.

Need to replace your old windows? Open Windows and Doors are your local aluminium door and window suppliers and installers in Perth. Our aluminium doors and windows are custom made to perfection to suit your specifications and installed by professionals so contact us for a quote today.

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BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) – A Guide to Windows & Doors in Bushfire Prone Areas

OWD_admin — Fri, 10 May 2019 14:34:31 +0000

According to latest statistics, it is estimated that nearly 1 million addresses in Australia are located less than 100 metres from bushland, putting them at the highest risk from bushfires. While many homes are lost in bushfires each year, the risk of losing your home to a bushfire isn’t just from the fire front itself, burning embers and airborne debris can cause damage and destruction kilometres away. So how can you tell if your home is at risk? And what precautions can you take with your doors and windows to help give your home the best chance of survival?

Bushfire Attack Levels (BAL): The 6 Levels of Severity

Australian Standard AS3959:2009 Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas, describes six different degrees of bushfire risk, or “Bushfire Attack Levels” (BALs):

BAL – LOW – There is insufficient risk to warrant specific construction requirements
BAL – 12.5 – Principally concerned with ember attack and radiant heat in wind conditions up to 12.5 Kw/m2 and where the site is less than 100m from the source
BAL – 19 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux between 12.5 and 19 kW m2
BAL – 29 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux between 19 and 29 kW m2
BAL – 40 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux with the increased likelihood of exposure to flames
BAL – FZ (FLAME ZONE) – Direct exposure to flames from fire front in addition to heat flux and ember attack

Each state and territory across Australia have slight differences in how BALs are assessed so if you are unsure if you live in a bushfire prone area, or to determine your home’s BAL, it is best to contact your local council or fire authority.

Window & Door Requirements for Different BALs:

For each BAL, there are specific standards you need to meet in the construction of your home.

If you’re building or renovating a home in a BAL-LOW area, you do not need to comply with any specific construction requirements. However, for any homes located in areas with a bushfire risk of BAL-12.5 or higher, they must comply with AS3959:2009 with regards to design, construction, and materials and this includes the choice of windows and doors.

It’s imperative you install windows and doors that have been developed and tested to meet the requirements for whichever BAL zone you live in. Not all aluminium windows and aluminium doors are engineered, tested and certified to withstand the conditions likely to occur in a BAL-40 zone, so look for products that are certified to help protect your home yet still deliver style, efficiency and functionality for your lifestyle.

Want to Make Sure Your Windows and Doors Comply with Your BAL?

If you are building, renovating or simply wanting to update your windows and doors to ensure the ultimate protection, contact the team at Open Windows and Doors. With a large range of aluminium windows and doors, all designed with safety in mind, we can suggest stylish and functional options for your home that have been manufactured to meet the regulatory requirements for building in designated bush fire zones. Whether you are after sliding doors, hinged doors, awning windows or louvre windows you do not need to sacrifice style to ensure safety standards are met.

Open Windows and Doors are the trusted supplier and installer of premium aluminium windows and doors in Perth. Offering a complete range of architecturally-designed commercial and residential products including options suitable for bushfire prone areas, we are sure to have the door and window solutions you need for your home. Call us today on 1300 180 280, contact us online or drop into our conveniently located Canning Vale showroom.

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Are Aluminium Windows and Doors an Energy Efficient Option for Your Home?

OWD_admin — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 23:04:00 +0000

With rising power costs and an increased awareness of the environmental impacts of generating electricity, it’s no surprise we are all conscious of investing in energy efficient solutions in every aspect of our lives, the home being number one. Windows and doors play a key role in the energy efficiency of a home so here we will take you through some of the things to consider when you’re trying to choose the most energy efficient options for your home or property.

What is Energy Efficiency?

In the home, energy efficiency refers to the power used to light, heat, and cool the house, as well as run any household electrical appliances. Energy efficient homes use minimal power to remain at an optimal temperature meaning the more easily an indoor space can be heated or cooled to a comfortable temperature the less energy it will consume, and the lower your energy bills will be. Whilst there are many contributing factors to the energy efficiency of a house, including insulation, construction materials, home orientation and the age and efficiency of the appliances, the selection and placement of windows and doors plays a very large and important part in achieving the best possible efficiency and performance for your home.

The Role of Windows and Doors in Energy Efficiency

Windows and doors play a key role in heat loss and gain in the home. It’s estimated that almost half of all heat loss during winter, and up to 90% of heat gain during summer, can come from windows and doors. So if you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home, this is where you should start. The role that windows and doors will play in energy efficiency of your home will depend on a few factors including:

Age – Generally, the older the windows, the less energy efficient they will be. This is largely due to the fact that they may not be as airtight as they once were as the seals around the windows can become worn over time. In addition, there has been significant advancement in glass and glazing technology so the glass in your old windows may be far less efficient than newer glass.
Seals – As mentioned, poorly sealed windows will really hinder your energy efficiency as they will struggle to keep the cool air inside during summer, and the warm air in during winter. If you do not want to replace your old windows then at least check and replace the seals, and if purchasing new windows check your supplier uses a premium grade all weather seal.
Glass Type – The type of glass in your windows will likely have the greatest effect on how energy efficient your windows and doors are going to be. Keep in mind that while the more efficient glass types such as tinted or double glazed may be more expense to purchase, the long term savings in your energy bills should far outweigh the higher initial costs.

Aluminium is a popular choice for window frames because it’s light, strong and requires little maintenance, so combined with the right glass and superior seals, they are sure to help boost the energy efficiency rating of your home. At Open Windows & Doors, our high performance aluminium windows and doors will improve the energy efficiency and comfort in your home, so contact our friendly team for a free quote today.

The post Are Aluminium Windows and Doors an Energy Efficient Option for Your Home? appeared first on Open Windows & Doors.