Designing with Thermal Insulation in Mind – How to Ensure Optimal Thermal Comfort with Facade Glazing?
The National Robotarium, Edinburgh, United Kingdom. Systems used: MB-86ST, MB-SR50N, MB-SR50M EFEKT
Optimizing the energy efficiency of buildings is one of the main goals of modern construction. The search for the most effective and impressive solutions in building thermal insulation encourages investors to opt for advanced technological products that offer high levels of thermal insulation combined with modern design. Facade glazings are an example of such solutions that can deliver the desired insulation parameters.
The drive among investors to optimize the energy efficiency of buildings is largely a result of legal requirements. According to the European Green Deal strategy, starting in 2028, all new buildings must be zero-energy structures. Given the impending nature of these regulations, it is crucial for investors to consider energy optimization from the design phase of a building project.
Glazed Facades and Energy Efficiency
The extensive use of glazing in buildings, not only in windows but also in facades, might suggest a high level of energy consumption for the investment. It is important to note that the energy efficiency of a glazed building is influenced by numerous factors, including the specifics of the investment itself, such as location, building volume, and the orientation of glazing relative to cardinal directions, as well as the technological solutions employed. While it is often said that energy usage for buildings with extensive glazing can vary more than for those with traditional facades (due to the distinct sensitivity of glass facades to external conditions), utilizing facades with aluminum systems that possess high thermal insulation properties ensures appropriate thermal conditions for the building.
60 Dawson St. (Project Kells), Dublin, Ireland. Systems used: MB-SR50N, MB-SR50N EFEKT
An example of products meeting high thermal insulation requirements are the aluminum facades in Aluprof systems – a leading manufacturer of aluminum systems in Europe.
– Aluminum is characterized by excellent load-bearing capacity and resistance to mechanical forces, making it ideal for constructing load-bearing elements subjected to heavy loads. Using aluminum systems for creating windows or glass facades allows for large glass panels, achieving a designer glass wall effect and optimal illumination of interiors with natural light, says Rafael Altheim, at Aluprof, an international manufacturer of aluminum systems in Europe.
Glass Buildings Full of Challenges
The construction of projects with large-scale glazed facades is a challenge both for designers and investors. However, incorporating appropriate facade solutions in the design phase can ensure suitable thermal parameters for the investment.
A significant aid in overcoming this challenge is the wide range of facade systems with excellent technical parameters. One such system is the MB-SR50N HI, a facade with enhanced thermal insulation, designed for constructing and assembling lightweight curtain walls.
– Noteworthy is the unique thermal insulation zone in the MB-SR50N HI system. It features special bi-component insulators based on an HPVC insulator (or a set of insulators of appropriate width). This ensures precise screw guidance during on-site installation, explains Rafael Altheim. – Additional elements made from flexible material glued to its side surfaces enhance thermal insulation and reduce air movement within the space separating facade fillings, he adds.
The thermal insulation of the system is complemented by high impact resistance and water tightness while also ensuring air permeability.
Viacom International Media Network Headquarters, London, United Kingdom. Systems used: MB-70HI, MB-SR50N, MB-SR50N EFEKT
Modern Design…
The use of glazed aluminum facades offers numerous design possibilities. The wide selection of products allows these systems to be tailored to the architectural requirements of the building. A prime example is the MB-SR50N EFEKT semi-structural facade, designed for creating lightweight curtain walls as well as roofs, skylights, and other spatial structures. A key advantage of this solution is its extensive glazing range, which includes single or double-chamber glass and opaque panels based on insulated glass units. This is highly appreciated by designers and investors working on both private and commercial projects.
E1 Dublin Landings, Ireland. Systems used: MB-77HS, MB-Slide, MB-SR50N, MB-SR50N EFEKT, MB-SR50N IW
…Aligned with Sustainable Construction
Market demands for the insulation capabilities of glazed facade systems are constantly increasing, prompting manufacturers to develop ever more advanced solutions. Aluprof addresses these needs with its recent offerings. The MB-TT50N facade not only delivers high thermal performance but also meets the requirements of sustainable construction and the principles of a circular economy, as evidenced by its design based on Cradle to Cradle certification.
1State Music School of First and Second Degree, Jastrzębie-Zdrój, Poland. Systems used: MB-78EI, MB-45, MB-70HI, MB-SR50N EI, MB-SR50N HI+, MB-70 Casement, MB-60E EI
A distinguishing feature of Aluprof facades is their high level of safety. The curtain wall systems like MB-SR50N and related systems are the only ones on the market to have received a positive technical opinion from the Building Research Institute regarding compliance with facade element requirements during a fire.
Let’s Build a Better Future!
Glazed facades, which seem to be an architectural trend for the coming years, do not eliminate the possibility of optimizing a building's energy efficiency or safety. The key is to incorporate solutions with the highest technical parameters right from the design phase of the investment. Aluprof’s extensive range of aluminum systems caters not only to the individual needs of designers and investors but also meets the demands of the modern market, where sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and modern design align with the responsibility for investment decisions and the future of upcoming generations.