How to choose windows? Practical tips

Choosing windows in 2023

Are you planning to build a new home or renovate your current one? Choosing the right windows is one of the key tasks you should undertake. Windows affect both the aesthetics of your home and its energy efficiency. In this article, we will provide you with practical tips to help you make the right choice. We will analyze the key factors you should pay attention to. We invite you to read on!

From which company to choose good windows?

Choosing the right window manufacturer is of great importance for the quality and durability of the product. There are many reputable companies on the market that offer high-quality windows for both private, institutional and industrial use. One of them, for example, is VELUX, which has long been recognized by customers for its innovative solutions and solid workmanship. It is also worth considering the offer of companies such as FAKRO, OKNOPLAST, WIŚNIOWSKI, which also offer very energy-efficient windows with excellent thermal insulation parameters. Before making a decision, it is worth reading the opinions of other customers and consulting a professional and the full list of recommended manufacturers can be found in the search engine of the portal Home Products under the keyword "windows".

How to choose the right windows for a new or renovated house? Practical tips

What to pay attention to when buying windows?

When buying windows, there are several key factors to pay attention to.

Material

Windows can be made of various materials, such as wood, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or aluminum. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages. Wooden windows have natural beauty and good thermal insulation, but require regular maintenance. PVC windows are durable, easy to maintain and come in a variety of colors, but some consider them less aesthetically pleasing. Aluminum windows are lightweight, weatherproof and require minimal maintenance, but can conduct heat and cold.

Thermal performance

Pay attention to the heat transfer coefficient (a value denoted by the letter "U"), which tells you how insulating a window is. The lower the "U" value, the better the thermal insulation. In addition, it is worth checking the solar energy transfer coefficient (the value denoted by the letter "g"), which affects the amount of solar energy passing through the window.

Security

Make sure the windows you choose have adequate security systems, such as multi-point locks or laminated glass to make it harder to break in.

Aesthetics and design

Choose windows that match the style of your home and meet your aesthetic expectations. There are many different designs, shapes and colors to choose from.

How do you choose the right windows for your new or renovated home? Practical tips

Which windows to choose: 2-pane or 3-pane?

Thechoice of the number of panes of glass in windows depends on several factors, such as the location of the house, weather conditions and expectations for sound and thermal insulation. Double-pane windows are popular and work well in many situations. They provide good thermal insulation and are also more economical. However, if you live in an area with large temperature amplitudes or near a busy street, triple-pane windows are worth considering. They have even better insulating properties, which translates into energy savings and greater comfort in your home.

What do triple-pane windows offer?

Triple-pane windows offer a number of advantages over double-pane windows. Here are some of the main advantages:

Better thermal insulation

The extra glass in triple-pane windows contributes to even better thermal insulation. This reduces heat loss in winter and keeps your home pleasantly cool in summer. As a result, you save on heating and air conditioning costs.

Higher sound insulation

An extra layer of glass in triple-pane windows reduces outside noise more effectively, ensuring peace and quiet inside the house. This is especially important if you live near a busy street, airport or other noise-generating area.

Greater protection from the weather

Triple-glazed windows provide better insulation against cold, wind and rain. This keeps the interior of your home warmer and drier even in harsh weather conditions.

Improved energy efficiency

Thanks to better thermal insulation, triple-pane windows contribute to the energy efficiency of a building. This means less energy consumption and lower heating and cooling bills.

How much do triple-pane windows cost?

The price of triple-pane windows depends on a number of factors, such as size, type of material, additional features and the manufacturer's reputation. In general, triple-glazed windows are more expensive than double-glazed windows due to more materials and more complex construction. When choosing triple-pane windows, it is important to pay attention to the quality and reputation of the manufacturer to make sure you are getting a high-quality product.

The price of triple-glazed windows can vary depending on location and the specific offerings of manufacturers and distributors. For example, standard triple-glazed windows can cost from 2,000 zlotys per square meter, while windows with additional features, such as smart climate control or energy-efficient frames, will generally be much more expensive.

However, it is worth remembering that investing in triple-pane windows can save money in the long run. Thanks to better thermal insulation, they reduce heat loss, which leads to lower heating costs. In addition, higher sound insulation can help improve your quality of life, especially if you live in a noisy environment.

Is it worth replacing double-pane windows with triple-pane windows?

The decision to replace double-pane windows with triple-pane windows depends on a number of factors. If your current double-pane windows are in good condition and the current economic factor is important, then there is no need to replace them. However, if your main goal is to improve comfort by increasing sound insulation and to save money in the long term by increasing thermal insulation, then you should definitely consider choosing triple-pane windows. For homes located in areas with extreme weather conditions - such as areas with severe cold in winter or high temperatures in summer, or in the vicinity of high acoustic pollution caused by transportation, for example - triple-pane windows can be a particularly beneficial choice.

In summary, triple-pane windows are an excellent choice for those looking for better thermal and acoustic insulation and greater comfort inside the home. Although they are more expensive than double-pane windows, their benefits outweigh the additional cost. When choosing triple-pane windows, it is worth paying attention to the quality of the manufacturer and the exact technical parameters to ensure a quality product.

How to choose the right windows for a new or renovated house? Practical tips

Choosing roof windows

For houses with attics or attic rooms, roof windows are an important design and functional element. When choosing the right roof window, there are several important factors to consider.

Size and shape

Roof windows are available in different sizes and shapes, such as rectangular, square, trapezoidal or round. Choosing the right size depends on the size of the room and aesthetic preferences.

Material and workmanship

As with wall windows, roof windows can be made of different materials, such as wood, PVC or aluminum roof windows. It is advisable to choose a high-quality material that will ensure durability and weather resistance.

Thermal and acoustic insulation

Roof windows should provide adequate thermal and acoustic insulation, especially in areas exposed to changing weather conditions and outside noise. It is worth paying attention to the technical parameters mentioned earlier, such as the heat transfer coefficient and sound attenuation coefficient, in order to choose a window with adequate insulation properties.

Additional features and equipment

Some roof windows are equipped with additional features, such as ventilation systems, interior or exterior blinds, electric controls or automatic rain and wind sensors. Depending on your individual needs and preferences, you can choose a roof window with the right features to enhance your comfort.

Installation and service

It is important that roof windows are installed by experienced professionals to ensure proper fit, tightness and safety. In addition, it is worth checking whether the manufacturer offers adequate service and product warranty. It is worth mentioning that sometimes a requirement of the warranty offered by the manufacturer is that the installation be carried out by authorized installers.

How to choose the right windows for a new or renovated house? Practical tips

What windows for a 2023 home?

Windows for a home in 2023 should, above all, be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Trends in energy efficiency point to the development of technologies that minimize heat loss and increase energy efficiency. Windows with thermally insulated frames, intelligent climate control systems or photovoltaics embedded in the glass are becoming increasingly popular. It's also worth looking at windows with minimal environmental impact, made from recycled materials or with a low carbon footprint.

***

Choosing the right windows for a new home or during a renovation is an important process and is crucial to the comfort, energy efficiency and aesthetics of the home. Choosing a reputable manufacturer, the right number of panes, considering important factors during the purchase and being aware of the latest trends are all elements to consider. Remember that good windows will not only add to the beauty of your home, but also improve its energy efficiency and living comfort. Windows are an investment for many years, so take the time to plan carefully and choose the right solutions. Before making a final decision, we recommend that you consult with professionals from companies offering complete window solutions and systems or an architect who can help tailor the choice of windows to your home's specific needs.