Are you building a new home or replacing your current windows, and not sure which type is the best fit? That depends on several factors including style, aesthetics and energy efficiency requirements.
European-style windows are becoming increasingly popular in North America and Canada due to their numerous advantages, such as superior energy efficiency, ease of use, and double functionality.
Tilt & Turn
Tilt and Turn windows have been a staple in Europe for years, but are now finding their way into North American homes as well. These windows provide many advantages to homeowners such as ease of cleaning, optimal security, and high energy efficiency.
Tilt & Turn windows come in an array of styles that can be tailored to fit any building type. Made from uPVC (vinyl) frames, they come in over 60 colors to match any home design.
uPVC is a durable and weather-resistant material. It can withstand elements like rain, snow, and strong wind without succumbing. Furthermore, uPVC resists mold and mildew growth.
Additionally, uPVC is a durable material that won’t fade or chip with age – meaning you can enjoy your new windows for decades to come. Making them an excellent choice for homeowners.
These windows can be used in a variety of situations and applications, but are especially beneficial in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Not only are they easy to maintain and ventilate but they provide breathtaking views into the outdoors as well.
European tilt and turn windows are constructed with quality materials to withstand the elements. Their steel-reinforced frames and sashes make them a sturdy choice for your home, while their multi-point locking system and heavy-duty hardware guarantee maximum security.
They can also be tailored to suit specific requirements, including venting and opening fully. Not only do these provide a quick exit in case of fire or other emergencies, but they are often seen as being safer alternatives to traditional American windows.
Tilt and Turn windows are one of the most energy-efficient window types on the market, providing better thermal performance than other window types. Their design prevents cold air from transferring to their inner chamber, keeping your home warmer in wintertime and cooler during summertime.
These windows are an ideal choice for homeowners, as they can be tailored to fit any need. Plus, they’re an affordable option when building or renovating a new home or renovation project and come in either uPVC or aluminum construction.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass windows offer many advantages, such as energy efficiency, comfort and aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, they can protect your home against harmful ultraviolet rays and enhance indoor air quality.
These coatings are composed of an ultra-thin layer of metallic particles. These materials are applied to the surface of pre-cut panes of glass through pyrolytic or sputter deposition processes.
Pyrolytic process: Melting molten metal onto glass sheets during production creates an indestructible “hard” coating that’s incredibly durable and long-lasting.
At Guardian Glass production plants, the sputter deposition method is employed – separate from the float glass production process. Once formed, the glass travels along a conveyor system through an enormous magnetron sputter vacuum deposition machine.
Coatings are applied to glass panes to reduce solar heat transfer and enhance insulation properties in both new construction and replacement glazing applications. These coatings come in various strength levels to meet different demands and needs.
These coatings can either be passive (allowing sunlight to pass through the glass when desired) or solar control (blocking sunlight from entering the building). Both types of coatings can be applied with both single and double glazing, meeting ENERGY STAR(r) program requirements as well as other energy code specifications.
The energy performance of these coatings is determined by the U-Value, solar heat gain coefficient and visible transmittance ratings of each window. These ratings can be found on their product descriptions and serve as a helpful guide when selecting low-e glass for your home.
For instance, soft-coated windows typically have lower U-values than hard-coated ones due to the increased heat loss they cause in your home, leading to uncomfortable temperatures inside and higher utility bills.
In Canada, there are various low-e glass products suitable for various climates. In warmer regions with east or west-facing windows, a balanced low-e formula such as ClimaGuard 70/36 offers the optimal combination of thermal performance and aesthetics. Conversely, in colder regions where solar control is more critical, Sunguard 62/27 may be more suitable.
Glass Options
European windows offer a selection of glass options, such as tinted and tempered glasses, quadruple glazing, and low-E glass. These features are intended to boost energy efficiency and reduce glare in the home.
Utilizing the correct glass can make all the difference when it comes to cutting your energy bills and maintaining comfortable temperatures inside your home. A well-made unit with a high-tech coating will keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer, but make sure you choose the correct glass for your location.
If you live in Canada, a recommended option would be to go for glass units that are 40mm or greater in thickness. This will provide more air space inside the window and help prevent condensation.
When selecting glass for your home, the color should be taken into consideration. Select a hue that complements the style of your house so it blends in seamlessly.
Another way to enhance the energy efficiency of your windows is by installing a high-tech coating that blocks UV rays from entering the building and reduces glare inside your home. This feature is especially helpful for those living in sunny climates like Florida or California.
Finally, European windows should be made from energy-saving materials to not only save you money in the long run but also boost the value of your home.
For the finest European windows, it’s not just about selecting the ideal product; it’s also about selecting appropriate materials and ensuring that installation goes smoothly. Doing this will yield a seamless and professional-looking installation that will be well worth all of the effort put in.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an essential element of sustainable development, helping to conserve resources and reduce pollution. It also eases energy burdens on families. Investing in energy-saving products and equipment can lower monthly bills for homes, businesses, and the public sector alike.
Energy efficient windows can save buildings money on energy costs and enhance indoor air quality, making them more comfortable places to live. By using less power to maintain temperatures consistently, energy-saving windows may even eliminate the need for air conditioning on hot days.
Additionally, energy efficient windows can boost a home’s value. A higher-valued property is more likely to be sold when its owner decides to move on.
European windows are an excellent option for homeowners seeking a superior window system. These windows boast numerous energy-saving features, like multiple glazing and steel core tubing.
One of the key features is the double-action in-swing system, which opens and closes the sash in mere seconds. This provides faster ventilation and convenient cleaning time.
Another notable feature is the dual-action tilt and turn mode. This feature is especially beneficial for European windows as it can tilt inwards to promote healthy air circulation inside the house.
If your window has this feature, you can set it to tilt inwards by turning the handle. The sash will tilt at a vertical angle for better air circulation and helps prevent mold or mildew growth.
European windows not only feature automatic opening mechanisms, but they also include a mini-ventilation mode for efficient air exchange. This setting can be tilted inward to provide slow but steady ventilation.
Furthermore, European windows boast a robust design. Made with sturdy vinyl frames and steel core tubing, they can withstand heavy loads and resist water damage.
Additionally, these windows come in an array of styles and colors so homeowners can find the ideal match for their home.
