The experts weigh in on why the design of these openings is so important, and what to bear in mind when you’re planning a renovation
The openings to your home should be a priority when you renovate
Natural light. Air flow. Energy efficiency. Noise reduction. Bushfire ratings. You might not initially think of these when choosing windows and doors for your home – especially if you are a first-time renovator – but there’s actually a lot to consider, starting with the architectural style.
“Different styles lend themselves to different window and door types,” says Stewart Horton, interior designer at Newcastle-based Horton & Co. “For example, if you had a red brick Federation house, you wouldn’t be rushing to put in the latest chunky aluminium window suites. It’s really about considering the style
of house you have, and trying to find something that’s close to the original windows and doors but perhaps a bit more contemporary, with better acoustic ratings and energy efficiency.”
You should also look at the purchase of windows and doors as an investment, says Christian Hansen of James Hardie. “You want designs that look good and won’t appear dated in the next 10 years or so, and that means choosing windows and doors at the front that are both functional and also a feature, while making good decisions around colour, cladding and overall form.”
Windows and doors are typically framed in timber, aluminium, steel or a combination of these. Here are the pros and cons of each...
timber
Pros Looks beautiful, provides warmth, can be highly customised, offers superior energy efficiency
Cons Timber is more expensive than aluminium, requires more maintenance, and may warp, shrink or expand in some weather conditions
Suits Traditional houses, terraces, California bungalows (but is often seen in modern, mixed-material homes, too)
Who doesn’t love a gorgeous timber window or door? There are so many styles and shapes available, and having one customised is more affordable than ever.
Trend-wise, there’s growing interest in oversized or wider timber front doors that make a distinct statement, says Amy Ryan, marketing manager at Corinthian Doors. “A pivot system can easily handle the extra weight of a larger door while providing a smooth and secure opening,” she explains, “plus it’s an easy way to take your home’s entrance from bland to grand.”
If you’re looking to bring the outdoors in, French doors are still the business for some, but the trend is definitely moving away from bifolds towards sliding or stacking door systems, says Christine Evans, director of marketing at Stegbar.
“Bifolds are great because you can open up a space, but they’re a bit more expensive because of the hardware that goes into the system. And also, most bifold systems mean you have to buy an add-on retractable screen – which can sometimes cost more than the doors. Stacking doors actually stack away into a wall cavity and don’t obstruct your living space, so they’re a really neat system. And you can have the screens integrated into the frame; it all comes as one solution.”
Renovators’ love affair with the Hamptons look is still going strong, and pairing timber windows with a product such as James Hardie’s weatherboard cladding is great for this. “Weatherboard goes hand in hand with big fat timber window and door trims,” says Christian. They have a lovely synergy.
aluminium
Pros Offers a sleek and streamlined look, allows for larger views, cheaper than timber, lots of great powdercoated finishes to choose from Cons May dent or pitt over time, not as secure as steel or as energy-efficient as timber Suits More modern or minimalist homes
There’s no denying aluminium’s popularity as a window and door treatment – simply because it’s more affordable, easy to care for and perfect for first-home buyers.
“Alumnium has a place in many areas of the home because it comes in so many different thicknesses,” says Stewart Horton. “In the 1990s, the chunky aluminum profile for windows and doors was popular, but people are starting to err on the side of thinner profiles again.”
The biggest choice of aluminium windows and doors in Australia can be found at Stegbar, says the company’s Christine Evans. “Our standard range has a slim perimeter frame, which gives you a nice clear, unobstructed view. Our Alumiere suite has a slightly thicker sash and frame, giving you a bolder framing aspect to your window and view. We also have a composite suite called Siteline, which is aluminium on the outside (so you get that durability in terms of maintenance) and timber on the inside (with that really nice aesthetic of having timber within the home).”
PVC and aluminium doors are making a comeback in Australia, too, says Christine. “This combination is very durable, and manufacturers are now much better at making PVC products for our conditions. It’s quite common in colder regions, where you have a traditional aluminium door and a polyamine or plastic strip in between that stops the transfer of heat or cold.”
steel
Pros Dramatic look and feel, durable, high security rating, low maintenance Cons Heavy, expensive, not the best choice if your home is near the sea Suits An industrial aesthetic, minimalist home styles, Art Deco homes
Reminiscent of greenhouses and 19thcentury industrial-style warehouses, steel can make a real statement in your home. Think panes of glass separated by pencilthin steel frames – or the slim sight lines of steel-framed French doors opening out onto a terrace. Steel is now a strong, contemporary look and there are many ways to use it in window and door treatments.
Stewart Horton agrees that steel windows and doors are popular again because they have that fine, elegant profile as well as unlimited sizes and configurations. “There’s more versatility with steel windows and doors than with timber and aluminium, especially if you’re looking to span a large area,” he explains.
“Steel is, of course, very engineered so it can produce stunning detail,” he adds. “It’s the most expensive window and door treatment but you get what you pay for. Steel has a beautiful longevity and acquires a patina over time. Aluminum doesn’t date that well and can become pitted; timber needs ongoing maintenance. But that’s not the case with steel, and if it does get a little pitted, that just adds to the character.”