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Design Considerations - Windows & Doors
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Being aware of exactly which window designs best suit a particular building is a critical part of the design and construction process.
When selecting a window or door design, following a few basic rules will deliver better heat / cold transfer performance and enhance the livability of the new structure.
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Daylight hours
When choosing windows, allowing natural light into rooms should be an important consideration. During daylight hours, an abundance of natural light helps to reduce energy costs by eliminating the need for electric lighting.
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Ventilation and fresh air
Different window configurations allow different amounts of natural airflow. Natural ventilation is an excellent way of controlling internal temperature. It is important to match window type to prevailing or local weather conditions. That way, environmental conditions, such as afternoon or evening breezes, can be utilised for cooling or to create airflow through a dwelling.
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Energy efficiency
Choosing the correct window design and framing material is important in reducing your energy costs. The type of glass, including double glazing, plays a crucial role in reducing energy costs, as does air infiltration through frames and around window hardware.
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Framing materials
Consumers should look carefully at the profiles of the window and door products. It is essential to be certain that all materials utilised are heavy duty, provide strength, durability and superior thermal insulation.
From an environmental perspective,
timber offers the best material for the manufacture of windows and doors
and Western Red Cedar is the timber of choice.
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