When choosing windows for your home you need to think not just about size, but also glazing, security and energy efficiency. Jenny Ringland reports
1. Expert advice
You may like to consult the following professionals to help you with your window selection and installation: builder, architect, interior designer and security company. Check that the professionals you hire are industry qualified, licensed and insured. Make sure you are both clear on what is expected of them. By planning ahead and seeking advice you will avoid common pitfalls, such as placing windows in awkward places, without an adequate opening device; choosing a window based on its appearance, without considering ventilation, security or light; and positioning windows in the wrong direction.
2. Size and shape
To check that you have sufficient window space in your home, first determine the floor dimensions of each room. The area covered by all windows in a room should equal at least 10 percent of the floor area. Many manufacturers recommend 20 percent. Note too that differently shaped windows provide varying distributions of light. Short, wide windows allow for a wide but shallow distribution of light, while tall and narrow windows will let in a thin but deep distribution of light.
3. Orientation
You need to select the most suitably sized windows for the direction they are facing. For example, east-facing windows will catch morning light, west-facing windows will catch afternoon light, and north-facing windows will receive the most light, all day long. In most climates, north-facing windows are the main, large windows and west-facing windows will be smaller in size, to let in less of the fierce afternoon sun. Consider that here in Hong Kong, if you locate a main window facing west, your home will be a heat-box in the summer. South-facing windows won’t get much light at all, but they are often useful for ventilation purposes, so don’t discount them.
4. Ventilation
Each room in the house needs to have a minimum of 5 percent openings. When considering ventilation, you can’t focus on just one window; you need to think about the whole room. The number of windows, their size and placement, and how far they can open all influence the level of ventilation in your home. It’s a good idea to locate prevailing wind directions so you can make the most of them. Note that fixed-pane windows don’t open so they provide no ventilation. Sash or double-hung windows open right up so they let in plenty of air.
5. Glazing
Consider your personal circumstances. If you live on a busy road or under a flight path you will require double-glazed windows to provide a sound barrier. If you live on street level, in a high-traffic area, it’s a good idea to choose laminated or toughened glass. This will prevent the glass from breaking off in shards should an accident occur. If you are installing new windows in a flat that enjoys a lot of natural light, choose glass with a high solar-reflection index.
6. Energy efficiency
Windows play an integral role in creating an energyefficient home. Situated in the right spot, they will help maintain a comfortable home, all year round. However, misplaced windows can increase your energy use exponentially. For example, if your windows are predominantly facing west, your home will receive too much natural light during the afternoon and your air-conditioning bills will be high..
7. Security
If your home can be accessed from the street, burglars could gain entry through a window. So it’s important for you to select windows with adequate locking devices, and even more importantly, you need to actually use them. Choose windows with key-operated locks if you can. you also need to think about the window itself – the frame must be of a high quality and able to withstand hard knocks.
8. Awning or louvre
Awning windows are hinged on top and open outwards with a chain winder. These chains hold the window in place. Usually rectangular and wider than they are long, they are often used in hard to reach spots, or when furniture obstructs access. The chain winder holds the window firmly ajar to prevent slamming, and these windows can remain open during rainy weather. Louvre windows, on the other hand, come in panels of slatted glazing. Popular throughout Hong Kong, they seal tightly and allow maximum ventilation when open.
9. Sash or sliding
Sash windows feature two sliding sashes that move independently of each other, in an upand- down motion. They are key-lockable, can be adjusted to let in as much or as little air as you like, and allow for most types of window covering. On the downside they can start to stick as they get older. Sliding windows, as the name suggests, slide horizontally along a runner. They are suited to most architectural styles and are usually chosen for their versatility. They are inexpensive, key-lockable and, due to their simple design, take up little space.
10. Bi-fold or casement
Bi-fold windows open either inwards or outwards, in a concertina fashion. Their purpose is to let in as much air and daylight as possible. They are used to connect indoor and outdoor areas, and are key-lockable. Casement windows, meanwhile, open out at a 90-degree angle. A metal rod is used to hold the window in place. Providing a fantastic form of ventilation, they are used singly or in pairs with a common frame, and match colonialstyle homes.
Related Links on Squarefoot.com.hk
Home and Property Stories via our International Network
|
