Windows are the primary source of natural light in a home, and selecting the right ones allows you to maximise daylight while reducing the reliance on artificial lighting, heating, and cooling.
Beyond light, windows play a significant role in sustainable home design, often more than many people realise. Choosing the right materials and implementing double glazing can address a building’s carbon footprint and utility costs effectively, both now and in the future.
Let’s dive more into the importance of sustainable windows below.
What are sustainable windows?
At first glance, sustainable windows may look similar to traditional ones, but their innovative, environmentally friendly construction methods set them apart. These eco-friendly windows are specifically designed to enhance thermal performance while utilising sustainable materials, making them a smart choice for energy-efficient and environmentally conscious homes. It is very important that the materials don’t burden the earth at the end of their life, and can instead be recycled with a small carbon output. Therefore, sustainable windows are designed with high quality products to last a long time, with little need for replacement.
What are sustainable windows made of compared to traditional windows?
Sustainable windows are made of a variety of eco-friendly products such as recycled aluminium, sustainably sourced timber, or fibreglass that can be easily recycled for future use. The centre of the window consists of double-pane glass and frames that include thermal breaks or insulating layers to prevent heat and cold transfer.
Most modern window frames are made from either uPVC or full aluminium without thermal breaks. While uPVC offers some energy efficiency, it is difficult to recycle and does not naturally decompose. In fact, improperly disposed uPVC products can remain in landfills for decades since they’re a short-term solution.
In comparison, traditional windows are typically made of materials and methods that prioritise functionality and affordability but lack modern sustainability considerations. Traditional windows mostly use single-pane glass, which offers poor insulation and leads to higher energy loss.
Traditional wooden windows are often framed with untreated wood or coated with paints and finishes that contain harmful chemicals. Living in homes with untreated wood may require frequent replacement and maintenance if it begins to rot. Builders may use aluminum as an alternative because it's lightweight and durable but it's a poor insulator and contributes to a higher initial carbon footprint, until it is recycled.
Knowing this, our sustainable windows use recycled aluminium and timber, which lowers the environmental impact of production and reduces carbon output. In turn, this combination ensures a more responsible approach to the product life cycle and helps the construction industry to cut down on unnecessary resources. That’s why all Miglas Windows are designed with a combination of the two resources to create the longest lifespan compared to any other frame material.
Why install sustainable windows?
Opting for green, energy-efficient windows not only improves the future of the environment but also provides long-term advantages for homeowners through energy savings, health and more.
Save money with energy-efficient windows
Double-glazed and low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are specifically engineered to improve energy efficiency and thermal performance. Featuring two panes of glass separated by insulating gas, such as argon, these windows provide superior insulation by reducing heat transfer between your home's interior and exterior. The low-E glass coating further improves performance by reflecting heat back into the room during winter and keeping it out during summer.
These window features help maintain a consistent indoor temperature year-round and reduce the need for heating and cooling, leading to lower energy bills. For homeowners seeking a cost-effective and sustainable solution, investing in eco-friendly windows offers long-term savings.
Enjoy more quiet time
As mentioned earlier, sustainable windows are mostly double-glazed, with two panes of glass helping to provide soundproofing. Since sound waves lose energy as they pass through different mediums, sounds and vibrations are immediately lowered with these windows, leading to a quieter home environment.
Improve living conditions
Sustainable windows with a laminated low-E glass coating block most of the sun’s harmful UV rays. By reducing the UV levels, these windows protect your health, preserve your furniture, and prevent damage to your home’s interior over time. Installing well-designed tightly-sealed windows also prevents drafts, condensation and mould, keeping your home controlled, clean and healthy.
Durable windows like these will also last longer and cut down on potential repair prices. By keeping your home in excellent condition for an extended period, they can enhance overall property value and contribute to a more sustainable living environment.
Comply with energy regulations
As of May 2024, it’s now mandated that new residences achieve a minimum of 7-stars out of 10 and a whole-of-home rating of no less than 60 under NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme).
The 10-star rating is based on a variety of factors such as the home’s construction, local climate, and orientation on the block.
The whole-of-home rating considers energy use across hot water, heating, cooling, lighting, cooking, plug-in appliances, and pool equipment. It then subtracts the energy generated by solar panels to provide an overview of energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
NatHERS standards directly correlate with global energy-saving initiatives set to help Australia reach Net Zero by 2050. Whether it’s a new build or a renovation, there are a variety of factors that can influence the energy used and emissions released. A great way to achieve these standards is to implement double-glazed windows, solar panels, or energy-efficient appliances as they help to cut costs and contribute to a healthier future for all Australians.
Connect with the best window manufacturer
Ultimately, the choice of how to design your home is yours. However, choosing windows that meet energy regulations, support your health, and benefit the environment is a thoughtful and smart decision.
If you’re considering upgrading your home or building a new one with new double-glazed windows, Miglas is here to help. We offer an extensive range of state-of-the-art windows designed to meet every need, including:
Minimising heat gain or loss
Reducing noise
Enhancing bushfire safety
Achieving low U-values
Improving security and safety
Shading and solar control
Optimising solar heat gain
Whatever your priorities, our expert team is ready to guide you in finding the perfect solution for your home. Connect with us here and learn more about our sustainable window options today.
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