Smart Shopper
Windows and doors.
“Energy-efficient windows improve a home’s comfort by as much as 60 per cent. There’s less need for artificial heating and cooling, so energy costs are reduced.” Gary Smith, Australian Glass and Window Association
“Windows are central to good design,” says architect Nicola Dovey. “They connect the home to its surroundings, drawing in light, fresh air, fragrance and birdsong – all the good things.” Doors play an important role too, says architect Lisa Breeze. “The right front door helps make a great first impression, while doors in general can assist with noise, security and thermal control.”
Energy efficiency is a key consideration when choosing windows. “One of the shortcomings of standard glass is that it’s a relatively poor insulator. Although windows typically representlessthan10percentofahome’ssurfacearea,poorly performing windows can contribute to as much as 49 per cent of heat loss in winter and 87 per cent of heat gain in summer,” says Gary Smith, marketing and communications manager at the Australian Glass and Window Association.
AccordingtoEdithPaarhammer,manageratPaarhammer Windows and Doors, an energy-efficient window is the sum of five parts: frame, glass, seals, hardware and installation. “Materials with high conductivity, such as aluminium, aren’t good for window frames as the temperature on one side quickly travels to the other. Timber, however, is a poor conductorofheat,makingitidealforwindowframes.Doubleor triple-glazing, together with sealing and locking points to eliminate draughts, improve energy efficiency further.”
All windows in Australia are rated under WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme). Energy efficiency is rated from one to 10, with 10 indicating the best performer. But highperforming glass does more than just optimise temperature. Different types of glazing can improve privacy and noise insulation, protect furnishings, and even self-tint (or selfclean!). Viridian’s double-glazed PyroGuard40 windows are engineered to maintain integrity during bushfires.
When it comes to size and shape, the options are virtually endless. There are glass panels – up to 6x4.5 metres – >
that disappear into a floor or ceiling cavity are gaining traction too, says Michael Canturi, director at Vitrocsa. “Round windows, half-moon and arched windows are also coming through,” adds Dovey. Tilt-and-turn windows, which open inwards either from the top or side, are drawing attention for their versatility and ventilation potential.
And for framing? Slim is in, says Christine Evans, director of marketing at Stegbar. Striking steel-framed windows and doors are another option. “These are the Rolls Royce of windows – they’re amazing but probably three times the cost of timber,” says Dovey. To keep the budget in check, consider installing one steel-framed feature window in a spot where everyone can enjoy it.
With front doors, it’s all about making a statement. “Oversized pivot doors deliver standout street appeal and help make your interior entrance area feel more spacious,” says Amy Ryan, marketing manager for Corinthian Doors. “Feature front doors are increasingly sharing top billing with statement garage doors,” adds Kris Torma, managing director at Axolotl.
According to Torma, aged nickel, black steel and concrete are the finishes to watch, and often carried through to kitchen splashbacks and feature walls for a cohesive look.
As with front doors, interior doors have evolved. “Hinged, cavity sliders, surface-mounted sliders and pivot doors can all provide interesting details,” says Breeze. Large sliding doors are great for small homes, she says, as they can open up a space without protruding into the room and if made from a material such as timber, can be closed off to create privacy when you need it.
“If budget allows, opt for solid core or semi-solid core doors. They’re aesthetically the same, but you’ll really feel the difference when opening and closing the door. Also, the more solid the door, the better for noise control,” says Breeze.
There’s no getting around it: decent doors and windows don’t come cheap. You should allocate about 25-30 per cent of your build budget to them, says Davey. And be smart about how you spend it, advises Paarhammer. “Fixed windows are more economical than operable ones,” she says. “The priority should be on achieving maximum insulation. To keep costs down, opt for fixed windows or wall panels in some areas, specifying double- rather than single-glazing. Your back pocket will thank you in the long run.”
“If budget allows, opt for solid core or semi-solid core doors. The more solid the door, the better the noise control.” Lisa Breeze, architect