What to Consider When Choosing Windows and Doors – The Concept of Socially Responsible Investment in Construction
Careful selection of windows and doors in construction projects is also dictated by legal regulations. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is the main goal of the proposed revisions to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in the European Union, which ultimately aims for the standardization of zero-emission buildings in the coming years. These requirements place an obligation on architects and investors to seek solutions that minimize building energy consumption. Selecting the best window and door solutions plays a significant role in these efforts.
4 Wellington Place, Leeds, United Kingdom. Applied systems: MB-77HS, MB-86 Fold Line HD, MB-SR60N, MB-SR60N HI.
Firstly: Energy Efficiency
One of the most crucial aspects when selecting doors and windows is their energy efficiency. While window openings typically account for about 10% of a building’s surface area, in winter, heat loss through them can reach up to 45%. Therefore, an important indicator of window systems is thermal insulation. An example of a product with a low thermal transmittance (Uf>0.83 W/(m2K)) is the aluminum windows and doors in the MB-79N system.
– MB-79N is Aluprof's most advanced economic window and door system, introduced to meet enhanced thermal insulation requirements – explains Tomáš Buček, project business manager at Aluprof System Czech s.r.o. – Aside from the economical MB-79N E version (with a single-component central gasket in windows) and the MB-79N ST version (with a dual-component central gasket), the product includes the MB-79N SI variant with the best thermal insulation, featuring profiles equipped with insulating inserts and a dual-component central gasket – he adds.
The Forge, London, United Kingdom. Applied systems: MB-SE 120 SUM, MB-104 Passive
High thermal insulation is a hallmark of Aluprof aluminum solutions. As a leading manufacturer of aluminum systems, the company continuously works, with resources such as its own Research and Innovation Center, to optimize offered solutions. This is evidenced not only by innovative systems introduced in recent months but also by numerous certifications confirming high product parameters. One of these is the Passive House Institute Darmstadt certification, confirming excellent thermal insulation of aluminum windows and doors in the MB-104 Passive system.
– This system with high insulation indicators is intended for passive construction, where the key issue is not only minimizing energy loss through windows and doors but, above all, optimizing the use of solar energy in the building – explains Tomáš Buček.
A noteworthy advantage of aluminum windows and doors in the MB-104 Passive system is their excellent water and air tightness while maintaining high structural strength. The system is applicable in both private and commercial construction. One of the projects utilizing aluminum windows and doors in the MB-104 Passive system is The Forge in London, where key importance was placed not only on the building’s energy efficiency but also on reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Secondly: Functionality
Windows and doors should also be functional and tailored to the individual requirements of both the users and the project. Aluprof aluminum system products offer such a wide range that imagination is the only limit.
Vinařství Lahofer, Vinice, Czech Republic. Applied systems: MB-78EI, MB-SR50N, MB-104 Passive.
Solutions combining functionality with originality include aluminum windows in the MB-79N CASEMENT and MB-86 CASEMENT systems. Their characteristic feature is outward opening while maintaining excellent thermal, acoustic insulation, as well as water and air tightness. An undeniable advantage is the ability to build large-scale constructions with sash weights up to 180 kg.
– Both systems are intended for making architectural exterior elements such as various types of fixed windows, outward opening windows, entrances, shop windows, and spatial structures subjected to high insulation requirements – notes Tomáš Buček. – Both meet energy-saving and environmental protection requirements, and the parameters of windows made from the MB-86 Casement system elements even exceed the most stringent existing regulations and standards – he emphasizes.
Thirdly: Innovation
Innovation in Aluprof aluminum window and door systems is also evident in unconventional solutions. Even the most demanding investor will find a solution in the offer that meets their expectations.
Such products certainly include aluminum doors in the MB-86 FOLD LINE HD system. These aluminum folding doors are a solution that is not only impressive but also very convenient to use. Depending on the requirements of the investor or user, the doors can open inwards or outwards. It is also possible to fold the construction with up to 8 sashes.
– The attractiveness of aluminum doors in the MB-86 FOLD LINE HD system is heightened by the availability of corner and panoramic solutions. Such doors are perfect for wide transitions from the house to the patio or connecting a café or restaurant with its outdoor area, used seasonally – suggests Tomáš Buček.
Nowy Targ, Wrocław, Poland. Applied systems: MB-78EI, MB-SR50N HI, MB-86 SI, MB-86 ST, MB-SR50N EFEKT, MB-SR50N EI
Let’s Build a Better Future!
Modern construction demands much more from windows and doors than merely ensuring the right energy parameters or meeting functional needs. The impact of systems on a building’s energy efficiency and the technologies used in their production have direct implications for the natural environment. Considering that residential buildings in the EU are responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions, the implementation of sustainable construction principles takes on particular importance. Aluprof, as a leading manufacturer of aluminum systems in Europe, is aware of this and consistently works on eco-friendly solutions. One of them is the use of recycled aluminum scrap in its products, which amounted to 65% in 2022. Furthermore, the company places critical importance on social responsibility for the natural environment.
– Our aluminum systems for windows and doors, as well as facades, hold Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certificates. This independent, globally recognized certification is awarded based on a product's Lifecycle Assessment, which should reduce the product's negative impact on the natural environment – explains Tomáš Buček. –The innovative systems our company offers respond to the needs of the construction market for environmentally friendly, structurally light, and highly energy-efficient solutions – he adds.