Windows are an essential feature of any living space – for lighting, ventilation, and aesthetics. While wooden window frames have been the conventional approach in Sri Lanka for centuries, architects and designers are now incorporating various types of aluminium windows into their designs. So, why is aluminium used in window frames increasingly frequently? Here are a few reasons:
- Being naturally corrosion-resistant, aluminium has high durability and can be used in environments with exposure to harsh conditions (e.g. sea spray, humidity).
- Being malleable, aluminium can easily be moulded into different forms with different finishes, to match the aesthetic of the surroundings.
- Aluminium can be fortified to acquire high tensile strength.
- Having a low density, aluminium can easily be incorporated into large designs.
- The ability of aluminium to provide good insulation allows better energy efficiency.
- Aluminium is a low-maintenance material, with a simple wipe-down usually sufficing for regular maintenance.
- In the long run, all these advantages make aluminium windows great value for money.
In this article, we look at:
different types of aluminium windows.
how to choose the right aluminium window type.
Main Types of Aluminium Windows
There are different types of aluminium window designs for homes, offices, industrial buildings, and more. Some of the most common types are:
- Casement windows: Aluminium casement windows are typically hinged on the side and open outward. Multi-point locking can be used for increased security. Swisstek Aluminium offers C-Groove SA 1000 (Premium Class), C-Groove SA 46a (Superior Class), and S70 Lapped Casement (Superior Class) type casement windows in an array of powder colours. All of these provide excellent weather sealing with the Premium Class option ensuring optimal energy efficiency. These windows work well for living and bedroom spaces, and offices.
- Sliding windows: These windows have horizontal panels that slide past each other, and are an ideal option where space constraints might restrict swinging doors. Swisstek Aluminium offers C-Groove SA 2000 (Premium Class), and S80 Lite (Superior Class) sliding window options, also in a range of powder colours. Both types work well in modern residential units, as well as in offices and other work spaces, with the former also providing effective sound insulation.
- Tilt-and-turn windows: These windows offer versatile operation, and can be swung or tilted open. Swisstek Aluminium offers C-Groove SA 1000 (Premium Class), and C-Groove S46 (Superior Class) options, in a selection of powder colours. While offering greater security, the Premium Class option provides airtight locking, which allows maximum energy efficiency. These windows are a sensible option for hotels, and high-rise apartments or offices.
- Bi-fold windows: These windows have multiple panels that fold on one another to open up completely. They may swing open, or may be folded to one or both sides, and offer greater convenience in terms of cleaning. Swisstek Aluminium’s S60 Folding window can be manufactured in a range of powder colours, and are great in terms of aesthetics and functionality for both home and commercial spaces.
- Louver windows: Louver aluminium windows are designed for ventilation, rather than for light, and generally do not seal off the space in which they are installed. Swisstek Aluminium offers C-Groove S31 louver windows in a range of powder colours, with high weather resistance and optimal air flow. These windows are ideal for bathrooms, and industrial spaces such as (non-temperature controlled) warehouses.
How to Choose the Right Aluminium Window Type
The type of aluminium window that you choose depends on several factors:
- Location: This includes the type of building or space (residence, office, industrial setup), as well as the location within the space (living or work space, bedroom, bathroom, warehouse, and even aspects such as elevation above ground level, for safety), in which the window is being installed. Casement windows and sliding windows are popular choices for home and office spaces, while tilt-and-turn windows are particularly popular in high-risers. Industrial spaces and bathrooms often use louver windows.
- Purpose: Are the windows installed principally for lighting/the view, or for ventilation purposes? Casement windows, sliding windows, and bi-fold windows are the best option to let in natural light, as well as to allow good views. However, if ventilation is the main target, tilt-and-turn windows and louver windows are ideal options – again, depending on requirement for lighting/view as well.
- Space: Sliding windows are the best option if there is a limited amount of space to open windows on a hinge. If there are no space constraints, any of the other window types that match your other requirements would work.
- Climate: If the geographical location is one where there are significant seasonal changes, louver windows would be inappropriate. Instead, Premium Class casement or tilt-and-turn windows, that provide good sealing, would be the better and safer option.
- Aesthetics: Your or your designer’s choice of window type might also depend on the aesthetics of the space in which the windows are being installed, considering practicality as well.
- Budget: Swisstek Aluminium offers Premium Class and Superior Class options for these different types of aluminium windows that vary in costing according to their category, based on raw material, design, and installation.
Contact our knowledgeable team for more information on the different categories and types of aluminium windows that Swisstek Aluminium offers, and for further guidance on how to make the best choice of aluminium window to suit your requirement.
