Beyond the increased comfort achieved when a building’s temperature remains constant, without sudden changes from one room to another, it’s also important to emphasize the reduced use of cooling systems (such as air conditioners and climate control) and heating systems . This not only reduces the overall cost of energy bills (savings on electricity and gas consumption), but also significantly reduces environmental impact thanks to lower emissions.
As we will see, when talking about insulation, the so-called thermal coefficient of the window frames (also known as thermal transmittance of the window frames ) plays a significant role .
Latest-generation PVC window frames: a forward-thinking choice
Among the window frames that guarantee a high degree of thermal insulation, those made with latest-generation PVC should be highlighted .
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a particularly versatile material that has long been used in the construction industry, particularly for windows, doors, and interior and exterior flooring. PVC’s use is justified by several of its attractive characteristics :
- it is a decidedly economical solution ;
- guarantees considerable durability over time ;
- requires minimal maintenance ;
- it is easy to clean ;
- it is a light and very easy to handle material ;
- it is available in a variety of effects and colors (suits classic and modern styles);
- it is an excellent sound insulator ;
- It is an excellent thermal insulator .
It should also be noted that in the latest generation of PVC window frames, the traditional metal reinforcement inside the sash profile has been replaced with fiberglass bundles . This has led to the creation of lighter and more efficient windows and doors , also in terms of thermal insulation. Furthermore, these frames are 100% recyclable , and the materials used can be reused up to 10 times without losing their original characteristics.
PVC window frames are therefore a choice that not only allows for absolute savings, but is also far-sighted in terms of environmental sustainability.
Windows: the thermal coefficient
In the construction industry, when aiming to maximize energy savings, it is crucial to use materials with low thermal transmittance values (i.e., a low thermal coefficient). This applies both to the building as a whole and to individual window and door frames.
The unit of measurement for transmittance, which is indicated by the symbol U, is W/(m 2 K) where W stands for Watt, m 2 stands for square metres and K stands for degrees Kelvin.
As regards windows, there are various types of thermal transmittance : Uw for the window as a whole, Ug for the glass, Psi for the glass spacer and Uf for the frames.
Without going into further technical details, suffice it to say that the lower the Uf value, the greater the thermal insulation of the window frames . This is therefore a parameter to consider carefully when choosing window frames for a home or office.
Generally speaking, when it comes to any building element, the lower the U-value (thermal transmittance), the less energy it will dissipate. This results in better thermal insulation. For example, considering two windows, if the first has a Uw thermal transmittance of 1.00 W/(m2K ) and the second of 1.30 W/(m2K ) , the first will ensure greater thermal insulation.
Keep in mind that windows and doors made with latest-generation PVC can allow for energy savings of up to 70% because they prevent temperature dispersion.
It is worth emphasizing that the choice to install highly thermally insulated windows and doors should be combined , wherever possible, with other measures such as insulating walls and roller shutter boxes.
