Modern Architectural Glazing: Aluminium Windows and Doors

Forty years ago the personal computer had not even been invented, digital watches were cool, child seats and rear seat belts in cars were nowhere to be seen. Many things have changed since the 1970s. The design of windows and doors have changed beyond all recognition too.

When thinking about aluminium windows and doors the image that springs to the mind of many people is of the first set of double glazed windows they had in their bedroom, or their set of patio doors leading into the garden. The silver aluminium frame was set into a timber surround. The frame would be covered in condensation every morning, the handles were wobbly, and it wouldn’t be long before the gap between the panes started to mist up.

It’s time to revise that idea. Modern designs using just aluminium over timber now means greater performance. Here are just a few of the ways in which improvements in technology and design have led to the development of high performing, aluminium windows and doors.

Thermal Performance

Aluminium-framed windows and doors of yesteryear provided little insulation. What heat retained by double-glazing was often lost through the metal frame and condensation between glass sheets was also a common problem.

Modern systems offer high levels of insulation through the addition of something called the ‘thermal break’. Sandwiched between the aluminium on the inside and the outside of the frame is a polyamide strip, which is a very poor conductor of heat, keeping valuable warm air inside and the winter chill out.

Strength and Durability

In the early days, aluminium windows and doors often consisted of a thin aluminium frame set in a timber sub-frame. These early designs weren’t very strong and the timber would have to be preserved against the elements.

Thankfully, modern aluminium architectural glazing doesn’t rely on timber surrounds. Aluminium’s core strength, combined with some clever design, means we can make bigger and better windows. Aluminium’s durability also means that once fitted, our glazing systems are very low-maintenance – they don’t rot, nor will they need painting.

Security

Aluminium doors and windows from the 1970s lacked sophisticated security features. Often they’d lock at a single point, some only with a latch-lock. Today, aluminium windows, sliding patio doors, and folding patio doors come with multi-point locking systems, giving you peace of mind that security won’t be compromised.

Colour

It used to be the case that you could have any colour, so long as it was metallic silver. At Reynaers at Home our glazing systems now come in a range of styles and literally hundreds of colours and finishes. We can even provide aluminium windows and doors that have different colours for the interior and exterior of your property, helping you with styling your dream home.