How do I choose my new window frames and panes?

You've made the decision to replace the windows in your home. Now you not only need to choose someone to do the work, but also the type of panes and/or frames you want them to put in.

Let's take a look at the options available.

How do I choose my new panes?

To compare window panes, we use the value U. It corresponds to the thermal transmittance coefficient. The smaller the number, the more insulating the material is.

	value U	Temperature inside part
Simple glazing	5,8 to 7,0	-1,8°C
Double glazing (old style)	2,8 to 3,0	9,5°C
Highly insulating double glazing	1,0 to 1,1	15,9°C
Triple glazing	0,6	18°C

_{* for an outside temperature of -10°C and inside of 20°C.}

Did you know? High-insulation glazing, or high-performance glazing, is replacing the old style of double glazing (dating from before 2000). It insulates 2 to 3 times better, thanks to a layer of gas between the 2 panes and an iron oxide coating.

How do I choose my new window frames?

For the frame, in addition to performance criteria (U coefficient, as for panes), both appearance and maintenance must be considered.

Wood: attractive but high maintenance

In terms of appearance, wood has the edge. It is also environmentally, technically and financially competitive. It does, however, require rigorous care for its entire service life, although pre-painted wood is maintenance-free for 10 years.

PVC: the king of imitation

This is the most popular solution currently on the market.

Nowadays, PVC frames can do a very good impression of wood. They require less maintenance, but must nevertheless be washed regularly to prevent staining.

Aluminium: sturdy and easy to maintain

You should also consider aluminium, in particular because it requires little maintenance and is very durable.

There are aluminium frames available that combine a pre-painted side on the outside with a non-treated wooden side on the inside of the dwelling.

Note: current aluminium frames include insulation that separates the inside and outside parts to prevent heat being lost.

Several ways to make your windows more efficient

Add a reflective layer to your panes to stop heat entering in summer, without any significant impact on light levels. This will stop your home overheating in summer, and keep heat inside in winter!
To make your home more secure, opt for laminated safety glass and frames that can't be dismantled.