| |
| |
|
Home Improvement Information |
|
|
|
Aluminium Window Frames
When double glazing first became a popular window choice in the 1960s, most frames were made of aluminum. Aluminum remained the most popular choice for framing double glazing windows through the mid-1980s, when it held over 60% of the market. Since the introduction of PVC window framing, the market share of aluminum framed windows has dropped steadily. As of 2003, less than 17% of windows sold were aluminum framed. There are many reasons for the drop in popularity - and still some good reasons for choosing aluminum over PVC or wood frames. The early popularity of aluminum was based on price and convenience. Aluminum was far less expensive than wood, the only other choice for window framing in the early years of double glazing. In addition, aluminum is easily extruded in the shapes and lengths needed to frame windows of any shape or size. It's strong, durable and very close to maintenance free. Aluminum frames do have one significant drawback, however. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat and cold. It's such a good conductor, in fact, that in colder temperatures, frost often forms on interior surfaces of the windows close to the aluminum joints. The end result is windows that are significantly less able to conserve heat and energy than those framed in other materials. PVCu was introduced in the mid-80s as a choice for framing double glazing windows, and immediately began to climb in popularity. When compared with aluminum frames, PVCu was less expensive, and more energy conservative. It can't match the strength of aluminum, however, and there are security concerns with its use. In addition, the introduction of 'thermal breaks' reduces the heat conductivity (measured in U values) of aluminum framed windows significantly. By fitting a less conductive material between the panes of the window as a sort of 'bridge' between the glass, manufacturers can bring the U value of aluminum framed double glazed windows within conservation standards. The main selling points for aluminum window frames, then, were: 1. Strength - aluminum framed windows are far less prone to warping. The aluminum withstands weather well, needs no painting and forms strong, rigid window frames that will fit for far longer than wood frames. 2. Cost - aluminum frames are far less expensive than wood frames. They are easier to manufacture, and the material is less expensive to begin with. On the other hand, the introduction of PVC has largely negated the advantage of cost. Far lower in price, and with more efficient heating, PVC has become the material of choice for framing double glazing windows. 3. Ease of maintenance - As opposed to wood, which is subject to warping and decay and needs repainting every 3-5 years, aluminum is virtually maintenance free. It never needs painting, doesn't rot or warp, and is rigid and strong enough to bear the load of window lintels with minimal reinforcement. 4. Security - Because of the tight fit possible with aluminum framed double glazed windows, they were - and still are - the choice where security is a paramount concern. It's very difficult to 'pop' an aluminum framed window from its frame if it's properly fitted. For further details on double glazing please visit http://www.double-glazing-centre.co.uk
MORE RESOURCES: Warning: set_time_limit() [function.set-time-limit]: Cannot set time limit in safe mode in /home/ayispaxm/public_html/homes/inc/rss.inc on line 8
Google News |
|
|
|
RELATED ARTICLES
Inspecting your Swimming Pool With the varied availability of swimming pool equipment and designs, you have a lot to think about when it comes to safety. Whether you use different types of swimming pool liners, or think about purchasing a new swimming pool toy, there are a lot of pool inspection tips you should consider. Hardwood Floor Care Will Keep Your Hardwood Looking Fantastic Hardwood is still the homeowner's favorite choice of flooring and caring for it takes minimal effort. Unlike laminate or engineered wood, hardwood can be refinished many times, and will add years of beauty and warmth to your home, as well as increase its value and speed its resale. What To Look For In Persian Rugs Selecting a Persian rug can be a daunting task for most people. There is a lot of misinformation out there as to what to look for. Easy Renovations for Your Home Renovating should be a fun and exciting process (really!). The key is to plan the project out in advance, hire the right people, allot the appropriate amount of time, and make provisions for delays. Bathroom Vanity Cabinets - Considerations Before Buying Bathroom Vanities Online Bathroom vanity cabinets are an essential component of any bathroom and can add drama to your design and decor. Bathroom sink cabinets provide countertop space, a place for the sink and faucets and great storage below. How to Finance a New Extension? Want to improve the look of your property? Want to add value to your property?The extension plans are ready but the finances are not.Rather than waiting another year why not consider a Home Improvement Loan. Kitchen Design - No Need to Do It Alone You can't opt out of the process altogether, though, because you need to decide what equipment you want in the kitchen, the type of units, fitted or freestanding, the flooring, lighting ? the list goes on.The size and shape of your kitchen will, to some extent, dictate the equipment you have and where you put it. The Benefits Of Wooden Flooring They're affordable and come in a wide variety of styles and colors. They're easy to install and maintain. The Smart Way To Look At Home Improvements What home improvements really pay off when the time comes to sell your house?That's an important question for any homeowner contemplating moving or remodeling. And the only possible answer is a somewhat complicated one. FAQs About Using Stone In Your Home 1. Q. Enjoy The Beauty Of Hardwood With The Endurance Of Laminate Flooring Everyone likes the beautiful, timeless look of hardwood floors. Elegant, yet simple, hardwood is stunning. Designing Your Log Home: Tips To Keep You Out of Trouble Nearly every log home is a custom design, whether you are altering a stock plan or starting from scratch. By their very nature, custom floor plans open up a large number of untested challenges - especially if you are trying to design the house yourself. Feng Shui Tips For Your Home Office Did you know that over 50% of women now run their own home business or work from home? Get your compass out and find the following directions because we are going to try and make things run a little smoother for you using the ancient art of object placement - Feng Shui.The most ideal locations to situate a home office, in order of best to second, third ad fourth best are the North (the Career Sector), the Southwest (the Wealth sector), the Northeast (Skills and Talents sector) or the South (the fame and recognition sector. Luxury Bedding is More Than Just Thread Count Thread count is the most widely referred to term when searching for those "perfect sheets." Generally, the higher the thread count, the more costly you'll find the sheets. Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters Here are five important things to remember.1. An Overview of Aluminium, Plastic and Timber Conservatories Conservatories remain a popular accoutrement and attachment to homes throughout the United Kingdom and the world in the 21st century. Around for over three hundred years, conservatories work to provide a lovely transition between the main residence and the natural surroundings abutting the home. Ladder Safety Tips One of the many tools that home owners use regularly is a ladder. Whether you need to change the porch light bulb, clean the gutters or put something in the top of the closet. Laminate Flooring Advantages DurabilityBecause it's designed with a tough and durable wear layer, laminate flooring is much stronger than most installed solid hardwood flooring, carpets and vinyls, it's more resistant to scratches than softer surfaces (solid hardwood floors for eg.) and is one of the best choices for households with heavy foot traffic, kids, or pets. Which Water Purification Systems Are Best? - A Comparison of the Three Most Common Technologies Fresh water is essential to our health and comfort. Not only do we rely on it to stay hydrated, we use it in many other ways including bathing, cleaning and cooking food, and laundering our clothes. Worktops and Countertops for Kitchens - Buyers Guide to Materials Worktops and Countertops for Kitchens - Buyers Guide to MaterialsThe worktop or countertop is not only necessary for a kitchen it is also an integral part of its design. Food preparation can deliver a large amount of wear and tear to the surfaces in the kitchen.
|
| home | site map |
| © 2006 |
