ALCOI

Today, architects and designers have a wide range of choices when it comes to fenestration systems for buildings. Therefore, there needs to be an understanding of the various categories of fenestrations including factors such as sustainability, durability, safety, cost-effectiveness, aesthetics, etc. to make an informed choice. 

The selection of windows is not just based on the functional aspect of bringing in natural light but also on their contribution to the overall building performance. The materiality is also a major factor that decides the aesthetics and the elevation of the facade. Listed below are the various fenestration systems that can be adopted to your designs on the basis of climate, usability, security, cost-effectiveness etc.

Fixed Windows

Fixed windows are unopenable and fixed in their position. They are generally used to frame an unobstructed outside view and allow natural light into the interior spaces.

Casement Windows

A casement window is attached to its frame by one or more hinges at the side. They may be used in a single or pair combination within a common frame, in which case they are hinged on the outside. Some common types of casement windows we provide are- Single Casement, Double Casement, Tilt and Turn and Top Hung.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are horizontal window panes in which all the panels can slide. Usually, in a 3-track window, there are 2 sliding panels and 1 fixed panel. They are one of the most popular choices today and are also known as gliders or sliders.

Slide and Fold Doors

Frameless slide and fold doors utilise an aluminium frame at the top and bottom. The system is designed to be slim and features no visible mullions. The individual door panels sit within the outer frame and independently slide and then hinge outwards, folding together like a bifold.

Skylights

A skylight, also known as a rooflight, is a light-transmitting structure that forms all or part of the roof space of a building for daylighting purposes.

Structural Glazing

A Unitized system is a structural glazing that comprises a large glass unit created and glazed in a factory before being sent on-site.

A Semi-unitized system is a type of structural glazing in which the components of the primary structural framing are erected individually on site.

Curtain Wall 

A curtain wall is an exterior wall that is attached to the building structure and does not carry the floor or roof loads of the building. This includes heavy wall types such as brick veneer and precast concrete panels.

The choice of a fenestration system has a long-lasting impact on the liveability of users and the sustainability of buildings. Therefore it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of the qualities and attributes of different fenestration systems to create better living spaces.