| Technology |
Window Frames
|
Window frames are available in many styles, and are made of different materials. When purchasing energy-efficient windows, the thermal performance of the window frame has to be considered. Inefficient window frames should be avoided because they cause significant loss of heat and are a prime cause of condensation on the glazing.
|
 Although window frames comprise only 10% to 25% of the window area in commercial buildings, they can account for up to half of the window heat loss. The selected frame also bears on the final price of the window. In this article we are featuring three different materials: PVC, aluminium and wood frames.
Wood frames
Wood frames are still very popular especially with "traditionists". Different types of timber are used and these include most types of hardwood, pine and cedar. The major benefits of the wooden frames are the following: easy to produce any desirable design; available in any color; can accept double-glazing. However, the wood frame also has some disadvantages: it requires maintenance; in comparison to other frames, it is relatively expensive and has lower life expectancy.
Aluminium frames
When double glazed windows first became popular in the late 1960's, aluminium was one of the materials most often used. Aluminium window frames are light, strong, durable. In the last decade aluminium windows have decreased in popularity and have largely been replaced by PVC. One of the reasons is the price, aluminium in comparison with PVC is much more expensive. Another factor is high thermal conductance, which in some cases result in thermal break.
PVC frames
PVC or Vinyl frames are primarily made from polyvinyl chloride. It is a highly insulating material, frames are available in many styles and generally considered low maintenance since they never need painting. PVC usually represents the lowest cost option of all three materials. As PVC frames are not very rigid, windows with large openings usually require an internal metal extrusion to make the frame stiffer. This can lower the frame U-value.
|
Photos: Advancedbuilding.com
Last review: June, 2005 |
Add a Comment
|
You have to be registered in order to add your comment.
If you already have an account, please sign-in to comment.
|
|
|
|
