Windows were invented in ancient times, and since then, each era, creating new architectural styles, has brought its own characteristics to the forms and decorative design of windows. And modern window structures are also elements that create a microclimate in the premises of the house. With the help of new technologies, materials and structures of windows, it is possible to regulate the temperature, air quality, reduce the noise level in the room.
It is difficult to classify modern windows – their variety is so great. But, nevertheless, they can be divided according to the materials used for the manufacture of window blocks: wood, plastic, metal-plastic, metal and combined.
By the type of glazing, windows are divided into: glazed single or double sheet glass and double-glazed windows.
The shape of the windows are rectangular, arched, pointed (a tribute to the Gothic style) and round.
And depending on the method of opening the sashes, windows are divided into several types. Sash, in which the window hinges are attached to the side surface of the sash, is the most common window design. For hinged windows, the sash rotates around the axis at the bottom edge of the frame. This type of windows is convenient for ventilation, as the upper part of the window opens and cold air does not blow across the floor.
There are also hinged windows, in which the sashes rotate around their vertical axis, as well as sliding windows.
If you are building your own home, the shape of the windows should match the architectural style you choose. If you are into classic style, your home windows are likely to be rectangular or arched. Gothic pointed, narrow and high windows will be a kind of decoration of a house in the style of a medieval castle, but a round window will be appropriate in a country style kitchen. Modern high-tech style home options usually feature large glazed windows, sliding doors, conservatories using plastic and metal.
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of window structures and materials from which the frames are made.
The vast majority of the country’s population lives with windows with wooden frames. Wood itself, as an environmentally friendly natural material, does not cause complaints, and all problems associated with warping, deformation of frames, drafts and dust are caused, as a rule, by non-compliance with wood processing technology.
Modern wooden windows have a rather complex structure, are durable and easy to use. Elements of frames of such windows are vacuum impregnated, then glued into bars. Such a multilayer window beam is highly durable and resistant to deformation. Then the material is dried, sorted, defective parts are discarded. And the rest are heat treated. As a result of such a complex technology, the mechanical properties of the material are much higher than those of the original wood, while maintaining the environmental friendliness and decorative properties of the wood.
Glasses for windows with wooden frames are used simple, polished, and more recently, colored stained glass. Glasses are subject to high requirements in terms of strength, sound absorption and range of transmitted radiation. To increase thermal insulation and absorb noise, modern glass is laminated with a special coating.
In addition to protective ones, decorative coatings (films, spraying) have also come into fashion, allowing you to change the ability of glasses to transmit, refract or reflect light and thermal radiation. By applying metal oxides or crystals to the glass surface, solar control or heat-saving glasses are obtained..
Modern technologies of multilayer film coating create glasses of various colors, with a mirror effect. The disadvantages of film coatings include the low mechanical strength of some types of film..
The use of new materials for sealing and sealing windows can significantly increase their moisture resistance and eliminate drafts. Wooden frames made using new technologies are gaining popularity again, although more recently they were almost replaced by plastic windows..
Plastic has replaced wood because its main advantage is the ability to accurately adjust frames to size. Modern high-strength polyvinyl chloride is environmentally friendly, never shrinks in the sun, is not afraid of frost, moisture, or acid rain. But plastic has a significant drawback – it has low strength, so PVC windows are reinforced with metal inserts.
And among the advantages of such windows is a long-term guarantee for an impeccable external condition up to 15 years, while traditional wooden frames need to be updated and painted every three to four years. In addition, PVC windows have high insulating properties due to the special cross-section of the profiles..
Additional thermal insulation in plastic windows is provided by filling the inter-glass space of a double-glazed unit with an inert gas. And the tightness of such windows serves as a reliable barrier against drafts and dust. Plastic double-glazed windows are therefore widely used for glazing balconies and loggias.
Most of the negative reviews about the quality of plastic windows are caused by their manufacture in industries with a low technical level of equipment. At the same time, manufacturers that have proven themselves in the construction market produce really high quality PVC windows with a long warranty period..
Aluminum frames in housing construction are mainly used for glazing balconies and loggias, winter gardens, shop windows and stained-glass windows due to their low thermal insulation properties. To increase them recently, combined frames have been produced using wooden inserts and special heat-insulating interframe gaskets..
Due to the application of varnish or galvanic coatings using special technologies, aluminum windows look very decorative. A wide range of colors of coatings gives room for the implementation of design ideas when decorating windows. But galvanic coatings are less environmentally friendly, rather harmful substances are used for their application, therefore varnish coatings are more widespread.
A variety of material options, a rich color palette of paints and films, a variety of designs and shapes of windows – all this gives a wide range of choices, making your windows an independent decorative part of the interior.
What are some key features and innovations in modern window designs? Are there any energy-efficient options available? How do these designs enhance the overall aesthetics and functionality of a space? Is there a specific type of modern window design that is more popular or preferred in contemporary architecture?
Some key features and innovations in modern window designs include increased energy efficiency, improved insulation, and enhanced soundproofing. These designs often incorporate double or triple glazing, low-emissivity coatings, and insulating frames to minimize heat loss and reduce noise penetration. Additionally, modern window designs offer enhanced security features, such as laminated or tempered glass, multi-point locking systems, and impact-resistant materials.
Energy-efficient options are widely available, such as windows with high-performance coatings that reflect heat in summer and provide insulation in winter, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. These designs help lower utility bills and contribute to sustainable living.
Modern window designs also enhance the overall aesthetics of a space by providing sleek and minimalist profiles, larger glass areas, and narrow sightlines, allowing more natural light to enter and creating a sense of openness. Multiple configurations, such as casement, sliding, or tilt-and-turn windows, offer versatility in design and functionality. Additionally, advanced technologies like motorized or automated systems allow for effortless control and customization.
In contemporary architecture, a popular modern window design is the floor-to-ceiling window, often referred to as a curtain wall or panoramic window. This design maximizes natural light, offers unobstructed views, and blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. It provides an open and airy feel to a room while contributing to a sense of integration with the surrounding environment.
Overall, modern window designs prioritize energy efficiency, insulation, soundproofing, security, aesthetics, and functionality. They offer a range of features and innovations that cater to different needs and preferences, contributing to comfortable and sustainable living spaces.
Overall, modern window designs focus on combining functionality, efficiency, aesthetics, and technology to optimize the performance and visual appeal of windows in residential and commercial spaces. These innovations not only enhance the comfort and security of a building but also contribute to sustainable living practices and a more modern and inviting environment.