There are multiple considerations when it comes to choosing sustainable materials for design and construction. Aspects such as embodied carbon and the longevity of the material should be top of mind. However, one of the most crucial functions of sustainable windows is their ability to enhance energy efficiency, through both materials and design.
With the right design features, sustainable windows can slash both the carbon footprint of a building, and the cost of utility bills. A win-win outcome for both homeowners’ pockets and the environment.
Let’s take a look at six reasons to install sustainable windows like the ones manufactured in Melbourne by Thermotek, to enhance the overall energy efficiency of an Australian home or commercial building.
1. Energy Efficient Windows Are Not Just a ‘Nice to Have’
Sustainable windows help achieve compliance with the latest building codes. Energy efficiency requirements are now embedded into the Australian National Construction Code (NCC). Since the 2022 updates, it is now mandated that new residences reach a 7-star NatHERS energy rating, plus achieve a Whole-of-Home rating.
While the NCC applies to new buildings, it can also apply to major renovations. Sustainable windows can also be retrofitted to upgrade the overall energy efficiency, as well as thermal comfort for residents.
In addition, as Australia works towards Net Zero by 2050, every home that enhances energy efficiency is helping to future proof the planet, through lowering the carbon footprint and the damage caused be greenhouse gases.
Sustainable windows that are made from environmentally conscious materials, and are also designed for energy efficiency, mean high performance and low utility bills.
2. Sustainable Materials Like uPVC Have a Lower Carbon Footprint
‘Embodied carbon’ refers to the amount of energy used in creating a product. The production of uPVC involves lower energy consumption, meaning it is more sustainable.
Thermotek manufactures our sustainable window and door systems in Melbourne, using world-class uPVC profiles by Aluplast.
uPVC differs from traditional PVC in that it is unplasticised, i.e., made without chemical plasticisers, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It is made with robust impact modifiers and fillers, along with long, spaghetti-like polymer strands. They bind together to make uPVC an exceptionally tough and suitable for construction and perfect for energy efficient window profiles.
Another advantage of uPVC is the fact that it gets stronger the next 5 or 6 times it is recycled.
This unique combination of durability, recyclability, and energy efficiency makes uPVC a highly sustainable material that’s able to be harnessed in diverse construction projects.
3. uPVC Enhances Energy Efficiency Within a Home
UPVC is also a great insulator; meaning that it is highly effective in maintaining temperature control within buildings.
As a sustainable material, it is more effective than aluminium, which needs to be ‘thermally broken’ to maintain energy efficiency. This is costly and can lead to project costs rocketing.
Once it is is installed, the thermal efficiency of uPVC is high. It reduces the need for heating and cooling, drastically cutting energy consumption.
Double or triple glazed uPVC windows can provide exceptional insulation, keeping a home comfortable all year round and further reducing the need to switch on the heating or cooling.
4. Double or Triple Glazing Regulates Heat for Energy Efficiency
Double-glazed windows feature two panes of glass instead of one, creating an insulating barrier. The gap between these panes is typically filled with air or inert gases like argon or krypton, which are poor heat conductors, thus significantly reducing heat transfer through the window.
In addition, double glazing reduces the risk of condensation forming on the inner pane, maintaining a consistent temperature and reducing dampness-related heating inefficiencies or health hazards like mould.
An extra benefit of double or triple glazing is noise insulation. The two layers of glass and the gap filled with inert gas provide soundproofing. Sound waves lose energy as they pass through different mediums, so transitioning from glass to gas and back to glass diminishes the sound’s intensity. The thick structure also makes them less prone to vibration in response to sound waves.
5. Advanced Sealing Systems Give Outstanding Airtightness
Tight sealing systems in sustainable windows play an important role in minimising air leaks, preventing drafts, and maintaining a controlled internal environment in the home. All of these elements are essential for energy efficiency.
Thermotek’s range of window and door systems, such as our Sliding Systems, come equipped with innovative locking mechanisms and high-quality sealing with no brushes or visible hardware. This sealing means a reduced need for heating in winter and less need for air conditioning in summer. The result? Boosted energy efficiency and significant savings.
6. Durability and Design Versatility for Sustainability
A fundamental facet of sustainable windows is the longevity of the materials used in composition. It means harnessing products that will stand the test of time.
uPVC is known for its durability. The strong composition of the uPVC used in Thermotek window and door systems gives it tough resistance against all weather conditions, significantly extending its lifespan.
Thermotek also combines world-class German engineering with local manufacturing in Melbourne, tailoring the uPVC window and door profiles to Australian conditions.
Our window profiles have passed rigorous tests. We are a member of the uPVC Windows Alliance, an initiative of the Vinyl Council of Australia. Its aim is to advocate for the use of uPVC as a sustainable choice for window and door systems, plus act as an authority on its deployment in Australia.
The uPVC Windows Alliance has developed the Industry Code of Practice (ICP) accreditation scheme to test and certify that specified uPVC window and door profiles are suitable for Australian conditions. Our uPVC profiles have been especially designed to weather the higher temperatures we experience in Australia compared to the Northern hemisphere. They have received ICP accreditation that they can withstand high temperatures, intense sunlight and coastal air without deteriorating.
The inherent strength of uPVC reduces the need for frequent maintenance or replacements. Another sustainable attribute of uPVC is that the more it is recycled, the stronger it becomes. This characteristic not only enhances its durability but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for new raw materials over time.
Thermotek Combines Sustainability With Design Versatility
Sustainable design is no longer limited in terms of aesthetics. Thermotek uPVC windows offer a beautiful range of design options, including various colours and finishes that can mimic traditional materials like timber.
Thermotek’s Boutique Series window and door systems combine superior energy efficiency with visual styling and design flexibility. It is available in a selection of Architectural and Woodgrain colours that can be harnessed for both contemporary and classic aesthetics.
Affordable, Energy Efficient Windows for a Range of Building Projects
With their high-performance features, Thermotek uPVC double-glazed windows are a sustainable solution for projects big and small.
While there may be a slightly higher initial investment than less sustainable options, installing energy efficient windows has a long-term positive impact on financials. It will reduce bills for homeowners, plus increase the overall value of the property.
Enhance Property Value with Thermotek’s Energy Efficient Windows
Properties with sustainable materials and overall energy efficiency now hold a great deal of appeal for purchasers. Buildings with uPVC double or triple glazed windows are more modern and sustainable, appealing to a broad range of potential buyers and investors in the Australian market.
Find out more about how Thermotek’s sustainable window and door systems can seriously enhance energy efficiency in your building project. Contact us today.
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