Doors & Windows: Seeing is believing
Window and doors systems not only enhance the aesthetics of the house but also its functionality. Here one must carefully choose the right material/type, based on climatic conditions prevalent in the geographic location of the house. When it comes to doors and windows, certain basic features such as heat insulation or preventing outside temperature, noise reduction, wind resistance or the ability to manage high wind loads in high-rises and fire resistance, are basic must haves. Other features include durability wherein these doors and windows should have the ability to stand the test of time with minimal maintenance requirements. They should also be UV stable, which means they should not lose colour and shape under extreme weather conditions.
Capt. Edwin Saldanha, MD, Doors and Doors, says, “For different climate condition, different parameters are applied. Window systems are undergoing much technology changes for larger panels and minimalist looks and feel. But the main parameters for air and water infiltration are not compromised on. For very heavy monsoon and cyclone areas, special needs are required for countering and draining off water in window systems. Glass also plays an important role in the combination of the final product. Right installation is also key.”
Not only must one consider the style, material, as well as the frame colour and glazing style, a decision must be made on the type of window– single glazed or double glazed windows. Atin Thacker, marketing director, Geeta Aluminium, says, “The window frame is an equally important component in any window and door system. The frame can affect the energy efficiency of any window and door – including that of double glazed systems. An efficient wall and ceiling insulation will make a bigger difference to the overall insulation of your home, office or building. Hence, optimally designed window and door system are recognized for its high acoustic and weather performances, making it the ideal solution for exterior joinery in tropical and hot climates.”
See throughWindows and doors made of different materials require different maintenance processes. For example, windows and doors made with wood require regular cleaning and re-painting, while windows and doors made of uPVC & aluminium do not require such rigorous maintenance. Periodic cleaning will suffice for their upkeep and long durability. Mahesh Choudhary, CEO, uPVC division, Aparna Enterprises, says, “Smart windows are complete with automation like remote controlled blinds for the purpose of opening and closing, changing opacity of the glass remotely to manage natural light inside a space, or having self-cleaning glass. These automations are incorporated to provide ease of use. This technology is still in its nascent stage, and it is slightly high on the cost front. For such windows to reach the masses and become more user friendly, it will take time.”
Brands are offering smarter products and designs to improve security of these entrance points while improving functionality and enabling smarter access functions to the people who own them. Praveen Das, product manager, arch hardware, glass fitting & digi locks, Hafele, says, “For a home that has large windows or facades and receives abundant sunlight, it becomes important to thermally regulate the temperature inside the house by using smart glass and window options to ensure only the required heat is absorbed while still maintaining the brightness of natural light. Similarly, for an entry door area, it becomes important to ensure only access is given to the right people and an electronic lock makes that possible while offering that added security with different modes of access to choose from.”
Capt. Saldanha says, “Windows and doors should be fitted “first time right”. Thereafter a minimum cleaning and track cleaning or with vacuum cleaners is the simple way to maintain these windows. Proper handling of large panels can prolong the life of the hardware and there is no need to change this for several years.”
Thacker avers, “Aluminium, the green metal, is widely used in building and construction, especially for exterior structures like doors and windows. For high rises, aluminium has always been the first choice due to its properties of being a lighter material to reduce the structural load on a building. Adoption of sustainable processes and materials for creating structures will help reduce the depletion of available resources and help built environment that are liveable and safe. The push for green technology – in materials as well as designs and structures will promote and motivate the industry players towards engineering more effective sustainable innovations.”
Aluminum is cost-effective because it requires less maintenance and no cost for galvanizing, coating and painting. It can be installed conveniently and quickly and the construction becomes environment –friendly, sturdy, durable, and of course, cosmetically more stylish and modern.
