When building a house, it's easy to fall into the trap of looking for savings where at first glance the differences seem small. This is a mistake that can cost a lot of money and... nerves. Why? We explain.
Why is it not worth saving on windows?
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apparent savings
On the scale of the entire investment, windows account for a small percentage of the cost - on average about 4% of the value of the house construction. This is really not much, considering their impact on the energy balance of the building, thermal and acoustic comfort, aesthetics of the facade and interiors, and trouble-free use for many years. By saving on windows, you risk problems that will come back every day, and this is definitely not a good investment.
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THE EYE OF AN EXPERT
Michał Luraniec, WIŚNIOWSKI PVC Joinery Product Group Manager
Windows are one of the key elements of a house, it is through them that up to 25-30% of heat and energy needed for heating and cooling can escape, which directly translates into higher bills. Well-chosen, modern energy-efficient windows not only improve thermal and acoustic comfort and the appearance of the building, but also affect its safety and market value. Investing in such windows means real savings and a higher quality of life.
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Windows stay for decades - and that's what makes the difference
You can change the floors, repaint the walls, and replace the furniture. Windows are a completely different story. They stay with you for decades. They are an element of the house that is installed once every dozen or even several decades. Their replacement is expensive, cumbersome and usually involves interference with the facade and interior of the house. Choosing low-quality solutions means the risk of leaks, deformation, problems with adjustment or gradual loss of insulation parameters. And this is often after just a few seasons. In practice, this means discomfort and higher bills for heating in winter or air conditioning in summer.
A good window is more than just the frame and glass
High-quality windows are not just about aesthetic appeal. It is, above all, a well-thought-out structure, properly designed profiles, properly selected glazing packages and refined technical details. These are the elements that determine the tightness, durability and comfort of use for many years.
High-end products, such as windows from reputable Polish manufacturers such as WIŚNIOWSKI, undergo research, tests for airtightness, weather resistance and many years of use. As a result, you won't worry about adjustments after the first winter or wind gusts with large glazing.
Why similar windows can differ in quality
When choosing windows, you should pay attention not only to the materials they are made of. Two windows can be made of the same components and yet differ in quality. Why does this happen? The quality of the windows is determined by the way they are manufactured, the accuracy of the workmanship, the quality of the welds and seals, as well as proper control at each stage of production. Good windows operate quietly, lightly and predictably. They don't require constant adjustments, they don't creak or cause surprises.
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What window parameters are worth paying attention to?
Uw (thermal insulation) - informs how much heat escapes through the entire window. The lower the coefficient (necessarily below 0.9 W/m²K), the better the energy efficiency.
Rw (acoustics) - determines the level of noise attenuation. The higher the value (e.g. 38 dB as in the case of WIŚNIOWSKI windows), the quieter the home.
g (protection against overheating) - tells how much solar energy penetrates the interior. Lower g = less overheating in summer.
Lt (light transmittance) - determines how much daylight enters a room. Higher percentage = brighter interiors.
RC (burglar resistance) - the class of resistance to burglary. RC1-RC2 are most commonly used in homes.
Profile class (A/B/C) - affects durability, rigidity and insulation performance. Class A ensures the highest quality and stability of construction.
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Windows tailored to you and your home
Quality, custom-made windows mean not only durability, but also the ability to fit you and your home. You have a choice of colors and textures, different hardware variants, and the ability to match the style of your home. It's also a choice of solutions to enhance security and comfort.
An investment that will pay off
Saving on windows is an apparent advantage. A small difference in the budget at the construction stage translates into real savings, peace of mind and comfort for decades to come. If somewhere it is worth making a conscious, long-term decision already at the start of house construction - it is in the choice of windows.
For more information, visit the company's WIŚNIOWSKI page on the A&B portal
