How to improve windows at the design and pricing stage

For those who are undecided, we have prepared the ranges in which we can operate to improve the performance of the windows or add more functionality to them. We assume that we are starting from the most popular and cheapest option, i.e. simple white PVC windows without accessories. Such a basic version can be fully sufficient in terms of performance and convenience.

Remember that you can count on advice from the salesperson. You do not need to know variants, properties and parameters. However, it is useful to have a general idea of the options available.

Material

If the budget allows, it is worth considering upgrading from plastic to aluminium windows. The higher rigidity of aluminium guarantees better mechanical properties, weather resistance, greater reliability, and scratch resistance, both during installation and over many years of use. If you are planning a cosy rustic-style home, you may want to think about wooden windows; they are more expensive but definitely add atmosphere to the interior. You can also use an aluminium cover on the outside to protect the windows from the weather and improve performance.

Our recommendation: The use of aluminium instead of PVC.

Profile

Whether you choose PVC or aluminium, these groups comprise a whole range of different window systems that vary in parameters. This is not only about the width of the profile and the embedding depth but also the number of air chambers, the presence of steel reinforcements or insulating inserts, and the dimensions of the glazing sealed units. Depending on the profile chosen, there are various additional solutions, such as concealed hinges or a window sash flush with the frame.

Our recommendation: A profile with a higher thermal insulation coefficient.

Colour

Do white windows fit into any building? Yes and no. As white PVC windows are cheapest, they are used so widely that it seems natural to us that they can be used anytime and anywhere, regardless of the appearance of the interior or the building facade. Of course, this is possible, but there are so many different finishes – be it paint or wood-like laminate – that it would be a pity not to take advantage of such possibilities. Thanks to this, windows can blend better into the whole, or maybe even become a decoration. For both painting and applying laminates, standard colors and others are available - usually involving an additional fee and a slightly longer waiting time.

Our recommendation: The colour outside matches the façade, and the colour inside matches the style of the interior.

Glass

The larger the window, the larger the share of glass in its total Surface. In an age of ever-increasing glazing, the parameters of the glazing sealed unit are becoming absolutely crucial for thermal and acoustic insulation. The important parameters include the number of panes in the sealed unit, the thickness of the individual panes, the coatings used, the gas filling the space between the panes, and the type of spacer between the panes. The use of safety glass (toughened or laminated glass) is also popular. Toughened glass does not form sharp shards when broken but instead shatters into small rounded pieces (like side windows in a car). Laminated (bonded) glass consists of several panes bonded together with a transparent film so that the glass does not break in the event of damage.

The spacer, as part of the double glazing unit, is often the weak link in terms of thermal insulation. An alternative to the standard aluminium spacer is the plastic warm spacer with a lower thermal conductivity than aluminium. The colour of the spacer can be matched to the colour of the profile or accessories. A warm spacer also prevents condensation on the glazing.

Glazing with functional coatings is a way to improve living standards by increasing the energy efficiency of the house, improving thermal comfort, and reducing the need for frequent window cleaning. Thanks to these technologies, windows not only become more functional but also contribute to environmental protection by reducing energy consumption. Consequently, choosing glazing with the right coatings can bring long-term benefits for both users and the environment. Uniform glazing thickness can cause resonance, i.e. vibrations that transmit sound and reduce sound insulation. Glazing that is too thin does not provide an effective barrier against outside sounds. To achieve the best sound insulation, it is advisable to use glazing of an appropriate thickness but positioned asymmetrically in the double-glazing unit. You do not need to know all this – our consultants are available to help you.

Our recommendation: A triple-glazing sealed unit with a warm spacer.

Burglar resistance - fittings and handle

There are no windows that are 100% burglary-proof. However, there are burglary resistance classes, which determine how long it takes a burglar to force a window. The use of special fittings (for selected window systems) makes it possible to achieve the RC1 or RC2 class, which not only significantly prolongs the potential burglary time giving us time to react but can also effectively deter a thief.

Our recommendation: RC2 fittings and push-button or key-operated handle.

Ventilator

Window ventilators are devices that allow fresh air to flow in without opening the windows. They are divided into natural ventilators that work through a pressure differential, and mechanical ventilators that are based on forced airflow. Their main purpose is to provide a constant exchange of air and thus improve the quality of the indoor climate and help to combat dampness and mould. The advantages of ventilators include improved air quality and energy savings by reducing the need to open windows. Disadvantages include potential draughts as well as installation and maintenance costs, especially for mechanical models. Nevertheless, investing in ventilators can bring long-term benefits, such as increased home comfort and reduced heating bills. Therefore, if you have enough budget, you should consider installing them.

Our recommendation: The use of ventilators.

Mullions

Window mullions are decorative elements that divide the surface of a window into smaller sections, adding character and style to a building’s facade and interiors. The main types of mullions include stick-on mullions, fitted to the glass from the outside and inside, and inter-pane mullions, placed between the panes in double or triple-glazed windows. Mullions are not only intended to beautify windows but can also imitate the look of traditional divisions, matching a variety of architectural styles – from classic to modern. The advantage of mullions is their aesthetic design that can completely change the appearance of a building, adding a unique character to it. In addition, the inter-pane mullions are easy to care for and do not require additional maintenance. However, they can also somewhat limit the flow of light into the rooms and thus will not work well in developments with large glazing and maximum natural daylight.

Our recommendation: For classic buildings and rustic interiors, the use of stick-on or inter-pane mullions.

Sun protection systems

Sun protection systems, such as roller-shutters, venetian blinds, and refleksol systems (fabric roller blinds) – in both external and internal variants – are essential window furnishings that protect against excessive sunlight, providing thermal and visual comfort indoors. Roller shutters offer effective, up to 100% protection from light, shutters precisely regulate the amount of incoming light, and refleksol systems – thanks to their wide range of colours, materials, and degrees of translucency – reduce the amount of soft and evenly diffused light. The choice between external and internal options depends on individual needs and the aesthetic design of the building. However, external systems are usually more effective at blocking heat as they stop the sun’s rays before they reach the glass. Appropriately selected sun protection systems not only increase the comfort of the rooms but can also contribute to lower air conditioning costs by protecting the interiors from overheating on warm days.

Our recommendation: Roller shutter or refleksol system fitted on the outside with electric control

Mosquito net

Mosquito nets are a practical solution for providing protection from insects when windows and doors are open, while allowing air to flow freely. There are different types of mosquito nets, including frame mosquito nets, fixed and mounted directly on the window frame, pleated mosquito nets, offering easy folding and unfolding of the fabric, roller mosquito nets, designed to be rolled upwards, and sliding mosquito nets, perfect for balcony or terrace doors as they can be moved sideways. The main advantage of mosquito nets is their effectiveness in protecting interiors from insects so that you can enjoy the fresh air without worrying about unwanted visitors. Mosquito nets are also aesthetically pleasing to most windows and doors so they do not disrupt the appearance of the facade. In addition, with the variety of types, it’s possible to find the perfect solution, from simple and fixed options to those that are more advanced and flexible in use, to suit users’ specific needs and preferences. Therefore, mosquito nets are not only about the protection against insects, but also how to make domestic spaces more comfortable. You can enjoy summer evenings and nights without nuisance mosquitoes, while maintaining the aesthetic appearance and functionality of your windows and doors. Therefore, choosing the right mosquito nets can make a significant difference to the quality of life in the home, especially in the warmer months.