Windows for a Sustainable Home

A quick look at the Merriam-Webster online dictionary results in this popular definition: ‘ An opening, especially in the wall of a building, for admission of light and air. It is usually closed by casements or sashes containing transparent material (as glass) and capable of being opened and shut.’ In actual fact, this definition is nowadays being adjusted and rejuvenated to include the endless purposes a window serves within a sustainable home.

Broader Windows

Although complete glass windows are a pain to clean, they are hands down the closest you can get to an authentic outside feel. When installed properly and kept clean, they allow indispensable beams of light to enter the room, saving additional costs that would have to otherwise be spent on artificial lighting. Windowless walls and little apertures can all become an advantageous opportunity to broaden glass windows and build up further natural light. It’s proven to boost your mood whilst reducing costs and energy emissions.

Solar Windows

You probably know the whole story behind Photovoltaic panels and solar water heaters, but you haven’t yet learned about solar windows. Modern commercial and residential buildings are undeniably huge, and many towers and skyscrapers consist of magnificent glass windows, just like whole walls of glass. Given the vertical setup, little rooftop space remains, making it difficult to install a sufficient amount of photovoltaic panels. In response to this, electricity-generating window coatings are making the best use of vertical space over the four walls of the building. Made of organic materials and capable of being attached to a variety of surfaces, such coatings are lightweight, come in transparent varieties, and are able to generate electricity both from natural and artificial light.

Exterior Rolling Shutters and Screens

Interior rolling blinds and curtains are go-to additions if your aim is to reduce excessive amounts of sunlight getting in through your windows.  Keep in mind, however, that these are located on the inside, rather than on the outside, so in reality, they are very inefficient in keeping the room temperature consistent. Today, the solution for this can be found in exterior rolling shutters and screens. Once shut, they prevent heat loss in winter and block the entry of exorbitant heat into the room, reducing energy costs and air conditioning costs respectively.