Stay Cool

Why windows matter ?

There is little point in creating a well-insulated building then installing
windows with inappropriate glazing. Windows with ordinary clear glass are the path of least resistance for powerful summer heat. With ordinary glazing, 87% of the heat enters a building through the window areas.

Conversely, of the heat lost from a building in cooler climates, (in all climates!) with ordinary glazing, 49% is lost through the windows. As a consequence residential buildings are using 60% more energy to heat and cool than is necessary. †With close to 70% of new homes in Australia now installing air-conditioning, the increased energy consumption and costs to operate these cooling systems is soaring. In all climates the installation of energy efficient glazing will reduce or negate the need to install any artificial cooling systems returning an environmental and economic advantage for the life of the building.

Installation of energy efficient glazing in warmer and tropical climates can reduce the energy cost to cool the building by up to 40 percent.

Developments in building technology and the increased use of glass in contemporary architecture, mean it is more important than ever to carefully consider your choice of glazing when building or renovating. A wall of windows to let an abundance of natural light into residential and commercial buildings, to integrate the indoor and outdoor areas, and to create a healthier and improved environment is a popular choice for homeowners, builders and architects.

East and west facing windows will receive the largest amount of summer sun, and so the installation of energy efficient glazing will add enormously to the improved level of comfort, reducing significantly the summer heat gain.

Effective use of energy efficient glass allows for the creation of buildings with exemplary design that also work for the environment by minimising heat loss and heat gain, and save you money.

† Ministerial Council on Energy, June 2004

Stay Warm

Why we need to change our ways?

While Australia may be world leaders in science, research and sporting achievement, when it comes to energy efficiency, our residential windows are the worst performing in the western world.

New energy building legislation is being introduced Australia-wide, as governments recognise the economic and environmental benefits. The need to improve the thermal performance and especially the glazing performance for all new buildings has been identified.

This means that buildings will be easier to keep cool in warmer climates and to retain heat in cooler more temperate climates.

Appropriate building design

Australians are renowned for their love of the great outdoors, and that also extends to the way we live, with indoor areas being designed to maximise natural light and to open up and enhance living areas.

Glass is a major component in contemporary design in both commercial and residential buildings. Advanced engineering has allowed for large walls of glass to be incorporated into modern designs, merging the garden, and the view with the interior of a home.

An increased level of comfort and lifestyle is gained with improved natural light and inviting sun-filled living areas. Performance glazing will allow for complete design freedom.

• As most building blocks do not allow for optimum orientation, the installation
  of energy efficient glazing allows for sound thermal performance.
• Energy efficient glazing also allows for greater design freedom, as it enables
  more and bigger windows without restricting your ability to meet energy rating
  requirements.
• It will allow for the installation of significantly reduced sized cooling systems,
  providing further cost savings.
• Energy efficient glazing can also minimise glare, enabling views to be fully
  appreciated and protect interior furnishings from harmful UV rays and
  inevitable fading.

To learn more, download the following PDF brochures by clicking on the images below:

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