Building Fenestration

Fenestration refers to the openings in a facade of a building. The three main types of fenestration are doors, windows, and skylights. In architecture, fenestration is classified as anything which allows movement from inside to outside. Vertical fenestration means all types of fenestration other than doors and skylights. Therefore, it constitutes windows that are fixed to the wall at an angle less than 15 degrees from the vertical side. These windows can be movable or fixed, opaque or glazed. 

Image Source: Glas Experts

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The thickness of the glass in your windows depends on your requirements and the size of the window.  Most people use Single Strength glass which is of 3/32” thickness. However, if you have large residential windows, you will need Double Strength or 1/8” thick glass. If you have extremely large windows in a high-rise building, you will require glass that is 5/32” or 3/16” thick so that it can manage the wind load.

Image Source: Ringer Windows

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If you’re wondering what to look for when buying new windows or replacing your old ones, you need to consider everything windows do for a house. Windows provide natural light, security, outside views, and insulation. The best windows also block out UV rays. A window must be easy to open and close. You also need to keep in mind the following factors while buying windows for your home:

Image Source: Go Erie

Factors to consider while buying windows for a home

1. Window Material

The material used for making a window is an essential factor as it depends on the climate, the location of your windows, and the age of your home. Generally, wood, UPVC, fiberglass, and aluminium are used to make windows. Although Fiberglass windows are comparatively expensive, they are durable and provide great sound insulation. Wood is gaining popularity, but it does require maintenance. UPVC is budget friendly and offers heat and sound insulation making it one of the top choices. Aluminium is durable and cost-effective, but low on energy efficiency.

2. Single, Double, or Triple Pane Glass

Single-pane glass windows are not used anymore as glass breaks easily and doesn’t insulate well. Double-pane glasses are the most commonly used glass type as these are heat resistant and available in a wide range of designs. Triple-pane windows are suitable for areas with high noise levels and extreme weather conditions.

3. Energy Efficiency

Another vital factor to consider while buying windows is energy efficiency. The best windows are designed to block the passage of air between the home’s interiors and its exteriors. Energy efficiency helps combat rough weather conditions.

4. Ease of Use

While purchasing windows for your home you must always check if the windows are easy to use. With time, windows can get difficult to open or close due to weather conditions. So, you must make sure that the windows are easy to operate.

5. Cost of Windows

The cost of a window is affected by many factors such as the brand, quality, material, and size. The company manufacturing the windows decides the price. Although most companies price their products as per the market standards, some companies may charge higher rates for craftmanship and brand value. Quality is a key aspect that determines the price. With better thermal, heat, and water resistance, brands charge higher prices. Moreover, the cost of the various materials varies. UPVC and aluminium windows are comparatively cheaper than wood and fiberglass windows. Also, larger size windows are more expensive than their smaller counterparts.

The standard door size has been fixed by the Government of India. These standards are applicable to residences, schools, and hospitals. The standard dimensions have been set keeping in mind mobility, use, and function. The door sizes are:

Image Source: Dream Civil

The size of the doors is :

Expand >>

Many different types and styles of windows are available in the market. You can choose the style of the window most suitable for you keeping in mind the location of the room, the direction of the wind, privacy, ventilation, and natural light.

Image Source: Civiconcepts

The different types of windows are:

• Fixed windows
• Awning windows
• Double-hung windows
• Bow windows
• Central Pivot windows
• Casement windows
• Single-hung windows
• Egress windows
• French door windows
• Jalousie windows
• Dormer windows
• Bay windows
• Glass block windows
• Hopper windows
• Cottage windows
• Oriel windows
• Palladian windows
• Picture windows
• Skylights
• Garden windows
• Round windows

Explore modern window designs here!

UPVC sections are reinforced with steel for strength. These sections are used to make the frame in which the glass is fitted. To select the best UPVC section for your windows you have to consider the following:

Image Source: Okotech

• Select the UPVC section for the window that is lead-free.
• The width of each section should be between 2.2 to 3 mm.
• The sections should be flame-retardant and resistant to cracking.
• The section should have a rain track that allows the rainwater to drain outwards.

Learn about uPVC windows in detail here!

Expand >>

uPVC window frames provide thermal insulation and protection from noise pollution. The uPVC windows are highly durable and cost-effective compared to other wooden windows. The uPVC window cost per sq ft varies as per the design of the window. The prices are:

Image Source: Building and Interiors

Learn about uPVC windows in detail here!

Expand >>

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is a hybrid material that moulds into any size or shape. While UPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) is a type of plastic that is durable and provides a strong foundation for doors. The main differences between WPC vs UPVC doors are:

Image Source: Ecoste

• Aesthetics: Although UPVC doors are available in many designs, WPC doors can be customized as per the user’s requirements.
• Price: WPC doors are comparatively expensive.
• Maintenance: UPVC doors can be cleaned easily and do not require much effort for maintenance.
• Weather resistance:  UPVC doors are compatible with all weather types.
• Strength: WPC doors are durable and stronger than the other door type.

Expand >>

While buying windows, the type of window glazing you select will affect your window’s energy efficiency. The different types of window glazing are:

Image Source: Champion Windows

• Single: Made up of a single glass their popularity has reduced because they do not help in keeping the cold out and absorbing heat.
• Double: Made up of 2 panes of glass. These help with insulation and noise reduction. They also retain heat more efficiently compared to the single-glazing type.
• Triple: Triple glazing means using 3 panes of glass. These are very popular in regions that experience extreme weather conditions. These are highly energy efficient.

Expand >>

It is essential to buy good quality windows as they have a significant impact on your cooling and heating costs. Here are some important factors you should keep in mind that influence how to select windows:

Image Source: Woodminium

• Frame quality: Windows come in different materials like aluminium, uPVC, wood, etc. Aluminium is durable. uPVC offers good insulation. Wood has aesthetic value and provides great insulation.
• Multiple or coated panes: 4 types of window panes are available: Single, double, triple, and quad glazed. Glazings keep heat out during summer.
• Energy-saving fillers: Many windows have fillers like argon, krypton, etc. which are non-toxic and provide sound and heat insulation.

Therefore, you can select the right window type for your home keeping in mind the above factors.

In India, window glass matters as much as the style of windows when it comes to durability and strength. The different types of glass in India which are best for windows are:

Image Source: Double Glazing 

• Clear Float: This glass type allows light to pass, but does not provide insulation from heat and sound.
• Tinted: When metal oxide is added to the glass during production, it becomes tinted, which then provides good heat insulation.
• Tempered/Toughened: It is stronger than the other types and is considered the best glass for windows.
• Laminated: These provide good heat and sound insulation. 2 glass pieces are stuck together with a thin polymer interlayer.
• Double: 2 pieces of glass are separated with an air gap to provide good heat insulation. These are comparatively expensive.

Single or double-hung windows are popular choices in home design. A single-hung window also called a single-sash window has a fixed sash at the top while the lower sash is moveable. Meanwhile, the double-hung window, also known as a double-sash window, has two operable sashes.

Image Source: Diffen

The main differences between the two types of windows are:

• The single-hung window is cheaper.
• Double-hung windows are available in bigger sizes.
• The double-hung window lets in more air than a single-hung window. It is also easier to tilt and clean.

The panel door is made using a number of interwoven wooden panels. The door may be single, double, or multiple-panelled. The glazed door has glass panels in its design. Nowadays, fire-resistant glass is used for these doors. The main differences between a panel and a glazed door are: 

Image Source: Building and Interiors

Image Source: Kapltaru Doors

Image Source: Direct Doors

Aluminium and UPVC are equally popular materials for windows as they are durable and stylish. Both aluminium and UPVC windows have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages.

Image Source: Gharpedia

Aluminium Windows: Aluminium is a strong material. The aluminium sections are comparatively thinner than UPVC and require a higher ratio of glass. While these windows are durable and weatherproof, they cannot be used in coastal areas as aluminium can discolour due to oxidation. Aluminium windows are fully recyclable and are available in different styles and finishes.

UPVC Windows: These windows are durable and easy to maintain. They block out noise and provide thermal insulation. However, UPVC windows have a shorter life span compared to aluminium windows.

A casement window has hinges on the top, bottom, or side. These are also known as Awning or Hopper windows when they are top and bottom hinged respectively. The main difference between tilt-and-turn windows vs casement windows is that tilt-and-turn windows can be opened in both directions due to their hinge mechanism.

Image Source: Seemray

Tilt and turn windows are more suited to terraces and balconies because of their inward opening. Casement windows suit all design styles. They provide the best ventilation compared to tilt-and-turn windows. However, they are limited to a certain size because the frame has to bear the weight of the glass.

A door jamb and a door frame are two different things. So, what is a door jamb vs a door frame? A door frame is made of a mix of horizontal and vertical members which are placed on all sides to provide support to a door. A jamb, on the other hand, is a flat surface that runs vertically on each side of the door frame. It is vital to the functioning of the door. This is where the hinges are placed to hang the door, and the striker plate on the opposite side helps you to open, close, and lock your door.

Image Source: WC Manet

The door frame is a combination of parts including the jamb. The parts are:

• Door Jamb
• Mullion
• Head
• Sill
• Casing

Expand >>

Fenestration refers to the openings in a facade of a building. The three main types of fenestration are doors, windows, and skylights. In architecture, fenestration is classified as anything which allows movement from inside to outside. Vertical fenestration means all types of fenestration other than doors and skylights. Therefore, it constitutes windows that are fixed to the wall at an angle less than 15 degrees from the vertical side. These windows can be movable or fixed, opaque or glazed. 

Image Source: Glas Experts

Expand >>

The thickness of the glass in your windows depends on your requirements and the size of the window.  Most people use Single Strength glass which is of 3/32” thickness. However, if you have large residential windows, you will need Double Strength or 1/8” thick glass. If you have extremely large windows in a high-rise building, you will require glass that is 5/32” or 3/16” thick so that it can manage the wind load.

Image Source: Ringer Windows

Expand >>

If you’re wondering what to look for when buying new windows or replacing your old ones, you need to consider everything windows do for a house. Windows provide natural light, security, outside views, and insulation. The best windows also block out UV rays. A window must be easy to open and close. You also need to keep in mind the following factors while buying windows for your home:

Image Source: Go Erie

Factors to consider while buying windows for a home

1. Window Material

The material used for making a window is an essential factor as it depends on the climate, the location of your windows, and the age of your home. Generally, wood, UPVC, fiberglass, and aluminium are used to make windows. Although Fiberglass windows are comparatively expensive, they are durable and provide great sound insulation. Wood is gaining popularity, but it does require maintenance. UPVC is budget friendly and offers heat and sound insulation making it one of the top choices. Aluminium is durable and cost-effective, but low on energy efficiency.

2. Single, Double, or Triple Pane Glass

Single-pane glass windows are not used anymore as glass breaks easily and doesn’t insulate well. Double-pane glasses are the most commonly used glass type as these are heat resistant and available in a wide range of designs. Triple-pane windows are suitable for areas with high noise levels and extreme weather conditions.

3. Energy Efficiency

Another vital factor to consider while buying windows is energy efficiency. The best windows are designed to block the passage of air between the home’s interiors and its exteriors. Energy efficiency helps combat rough weather conditions.

4. Ease of Use

While purchasing windows for your home you must always check if the windows are easy to use. With time, windows can get difficult to open or close due to weather conditions. So, you must make sure that the windows are easy to operate.

5. Cost of Windows

The cost of a window is affected by many factors such as the brand, quality, material, and size. The company manufacturing the windows decides the price. Although most companies price their products as per the market standards, some companies may charge higher rates for craftmanship and brand value. Quality is a key aspect that determines the price. With better thermal, heat, and water resistance, brands charge higher prices. Moreover, the cost of the various materials varies. UPVC and aluminium windows are comparatively cheaper than wood and fiberglass windows. Also, larger size windows are more expensive than their smaller counterparts.

The standard door size has been fixed by the Government of India. These standards are applicable to residences, schools, and hospitals. The standard dimensions have been set keeping in mind mobility, use, and function. The door sizes are:

Image Source: Dream Civil

The size of the doors is :

Expand >>

Many different types and styles of windows are available in the market. You can choose the style of the window most suitable for you keeping in mind the location of the room, the direction of the wind, privacy, ventilation, and natural light.

Image Source: Civiconcepts

The different types of windows are:

• Fixed windows
• Awning windows
• Double-hung windows
• Bow windows
• Central Pivot windows
• Casement windows
• Single-hung windows
• Egress windows
• French door windows
• Jalousie windows
• Dormer windows
• Bay windows
• Glass block windows
• Hopper windows
• Cottage windows
• Oriel windows
• Palladian windows
• Picture windows
• Skylights
• Garden windows
• Round windows

Explore modern window designs here!

UPVC sections are reinforced with steel for strength. These sections are used to make the frame in which the glass is fitted. To select the best UPVC section for your windows you have to consider the following:

Image Source: Okotech

• Select the UPVC section for the window that is lead-free.
• The width of each section should be between 2.2 to 3 mm.
• The sections should be flame-retardant and resistant to cracking.
• The section should have a rain track that allows the rainwater to drain outwards.

Learn about uPVC windows in detail here!

Expand >>

uPVC window frames provide thermal insulation and protection from noise pollution. The uPVC windows are highly durable and cost-effective compared to other wooden windows. The uPVC window cost per sq ft varies as per the design of the window. The prices are:

Image Source: Building and Interiors

Learn about uPVC windows in detail here!

Expand >>

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is a hybrid material that moulds into any size or shape. While UPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) is a type of plastic that is durable and provides a strong foundation for doors. The main differences between WPC vs UPVC doors are:

Image Source: Ecoste

• Aesthetics: Although UPVC doors are available in many designs, WPC doors can be customized as per the user’s requirements.
• Price: WPC doors are comparatively expensive.
• Maintenance: UPVC doors can be cleaned easily and do not require much effort for maintenance.
• Weather resistance:  UPVC doors are compatible with all weather types.
• Strength: WPC doors are durable and stronger than the other door type.

Expand >>

While buying windows, the type of window glazing you select will affect your window’s energy efficiency. The different types of window glazing are:

Image Source: Champion Windows

• Single: Made up of a single glass their popularity has reduced because they do not help in keeping the cold out and absorbing heat.
• Double: Made up of 2 panes of glass. These help with insulation and noise reduction. They also retain heat more efficiently compared to the single-glazing type.
• Triple: Triple glazing means using 3 panes of glass. These are very popular in regions that experience extreme weather conditions. These are highly energy efficient.

Expand >>

It is essential to buy good quality windows as they have a significant impact on your cooling and heating costs. Here are some important factors you should keep in mind that influence how to select windows:

Image Source: Woodminium

• Frame quality: Windows come in different materials like aluminium, uPVC, wood, etc. Aluminium is durable. uPVC offers good insulation. Wood has aesthetic value and provides great insulation.
• Multiple or coated panes: 4 types of window panes are available: Single, double, triple, and quad glazed. Glazings keep heat out during summer.
• Energy-saving fillers: Many windows have fillers like argon, krypton, etc. which are non-toxic and provide sound and heat insulation.

Therefore, you can select the right window type for your home keeping in mind the above factors.

In India, window glass matters as much as the style of windows when it comes to durability and strength. The different types of glass in India which are best for windows are:

Image Source: Double Glazing 

• Clear Float: This glass type allows light to pass, but does not provide insulation from heat and sound.
• Tinted: When metal oxide is added to the glass during production, it becomes tinted, which then provides good heat insulation.
• Tempered/Toughened: It is stronger than the other types and is considered the best glass for windows.
• Laminated: These provide good heat and sound insulation. 2 glass pieces are stuck together with a thin polymer interlayer.
• Double: 2 pieces of glass are separated with an air gap to provide good heat insulation. These are comparatively expensive.

Single or double-hung windows are popular choices in home design. A single-hung window also called a single-sash window has a fixed sash at the top while the lower sash is moveable. Meanwhile, the double-hung window, also known as a double-sash window, has two operable sashes.

Image Source: Diffen

The main differences between the two types of windows are:

• The single-hung window is cheaper.
• Double-hung windows are available in bigger sizes.
• The double-hung window lets in more air than a single-hung window. It is also easier to tilt and clean.

The panel door is made using a number of interwoven wooden panels. The door may be single, double, or multiple-panelled. The glazed door has glass panels in its design. Nowadays, fire-resistant glass is used for these doors. The main differences between a panel and a glazed door are: 

Image Source: Building and Interiors

Image Source: Kapltaru Doors

Image Source: Direct Doors

Aluminium and UPVC are equally popular materials for windows as they are durable and stylish. Both aluminium and UPVC windows have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages.

Image Source: Gharpedia

Aluminium Windows: Aluminium is a strong material. The aluminium sections are comparatively thinner than UPVC and require a higher ratio of glass. While these windows are durable and weatherproof, they cannot be used in coastal areas as aluminium can discolour due to oxidation. Aluminium windows are fully recyclable and are available in different styles and finishes.

UPVC Windows: These windows are durable and easy to maintain. They block out noise and provide thermal insulation. However, UPVC windows have a shorter life span compared to aluminium windows.

A casement window has hinges on the top, bottom, or side. These are also known as Awning or Hopper windows when they are top and bottom hinged respectively. The main difference between tilt-and-turn windows vs casement windows is that tilt-and-turn windows can be opened in both directions due to their hinge mechanism.

Image Source: Seemray

Tilt and turn windows are more suited to terraces and balconies because of their inward opening. Casement windows suit all design styles. They provide the best ventilation compared to tilt-and-turn windows. However, they are limited to a certain size because the frame has to bear the weight of the glass.

A door jamb and a door frame are two different things. So, what is a door jamb vs a door frame? A door frame is made of a mix of horizontal and vertical members which are placed on all sides to provide support to a door. A jamb, on the other hand, is a flat surface that runs vertically on each side of the door frame. It is vital to the functioning of the door. This is where the hinges are placed to hang the door, and the striker plate on the opposite side helps you to open, close, and lock your door.

Image Source: WC Manet

The door frame is a combination of parts including the jamb. The parts are:

• Door Jamb
• Mullion
• Head
• Sill
• Casing

Expand >>