Choosing the right windows can increase the visibility of your commercial business, allowing you to attract more potential customers. Windows also play a key role in enabling your business to achieve energy efficiency goals. Let’s look at some factors to consider when choosing commercial windows, as well as some examples of different window materials.
Understanding U-Value
In addition to choosing windows that are visually attractive and fit the commercial space, it is important to consider the efficiency of building materials, as well as their environmental impact. With this in mind, one of the most important factors to consider is U-value. U-value, or thermal transmittance, is the rate of transfer of heat through a structure divided by the difference in temperature across that structure. In other words, U-value determines to what extent a material is thermally insulated. The U-value directly impacts the energy efficiency, insulation, and sustainability of a building. The lower the combined U-value of building materials, the more thermally efficient a structure is. To calculate U-value, you must find the reciprocal of the sum of the thermal resistances of each material making up the building element in question (for example, the materials of a proposed window). However, it is important to consider the combined U-value of all structural elements in a building – not only the windows – to better determine the thermal efficiency of a building.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are a popular choice for commercial windows because of their low initial U-value. Many manufacturers of aluminum windows design these windows with thermal separators, such as glass fiber-reinforced polyamide. Another benefit of aluminum windows is that they are very cost-effective. The outside of aluminum frames is thermally isolated from the inside of the aluminum, which delivers strong energy savings. Aluminum windows are also fairly low maintenance, being easy to clean and take care of, and have a long life span. They are a great choice for visibility purposes, particularly in commercial spaces such as retail and office spaces. Some of the associated cons of aluminum windows are condensation, corrosion, and noise transmission.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are another long-lasting and sustainable choice for commercial buildings. Fiberglass with a high glass-fiber-to-resin formula is an excellent structural material due to its energy efficiency. Fiberglass is 10 times stronger than traditional vinyl windows – its stability and strength allow fiberglass windows to tolerate high winds, even on tall buildings. Fiberglass windows can also withstand decay and corrosion, as well as extreme weather conditions, including temperatures of -40°F through 350°F and higher. In order to greatly reduce the overall U-value of building elements, fiberglass frame materials are ideal, because of their higher insulating properties.
Choosing commercial windows for your project is easier when you’re working with the right team. At Pulse Construction, we’re committed to doing business with an honest, professional, and competitive approach – without compromising safety or schedules. Contact us today for all of your building needs.
