How do you achieve the "glass walls" effect? 

On the impact of panoramic windows on user comfort

In today's construction, windows mean more than just glass insulation against the cold. In the era of passive and energy-saving construction, windows play a key role in extracting heat from renewable energy sources. The larger the window area, the greater the opportunity for energy optimization. In this respect, panoramic windows are a practical solution; they offer energy efficiency but also provide eye-catching building design. 

The window - a crucial aspect of emission-free construction

Thanks to the extraction of solar energy through the windows, it is possible to passively heat rooms, which at the same time increases the energy efficiency of the building in question. For maximum utilization of this energy source, the placement of the windows in relation to the outside world is crucial, as is the matching of the window area to the dimensions of the rooms in the building. 

Proper placement of the windows makes it possible to extract as much as 45% of the energy required, says Michiel van Duren, Managing Director at Aluprof Nederland BV. "Since in traditional construction 10 to 15% of energy is lost annually through the window units, such extraction of energy from renewable sources is particularly beneficial for energy efficiency," he adds.

Good thermal insulation and comprehensive solutions

Panoramic windows must meet high insulation requirements. In this context, not only the number of window sections, the seals and insulators used are important, but also the degree of insulation of the entire structure in which the windows are installed. This is what makes it so important to use comprehensive solutions in the case of window systems. An example of such a solution is the aluminum curtain wall of the MB-SR50N system. It provides a solid basis for the integration of different types of windows (including turn and tilt windows) into the facade, while maintaining the high insulation values of the entire structure. 

MB-SR50N not only guarantees good thermal insulation, but also provides an aesthetic construction in the form of facades with visible thin dividing lines. This style lends itself perfectly to the construction of both modern buildings and historic architecture, which means that the use of panoramic windows to optimize the energy efficiency of a building is not exclusively reserved for new construction. 

More than just panoramic windows

Large glass areas in buildings are not just related to window areas. Thanks to modern technologies, manufacturers can offer energy-efficient and visually attractive panoramic doors suitable for a wide range of applications. For example, for the living room, such as the aluminum sliding doors of the type MB-Skyline Type-R, which have been enhanced with two new solutions, namely with a minimalist handle and a fixed door style. The advantage of this system is not only its minimalist design but also the possibility of designing functional and particularly large glass areas. 

...And not just for homes

Systems for large glass surfaces can be used successfully in different types of spaces. The all-glass, sliding canopy system MB-OpenSlide, for example, which allows a terrace canopy to be erected all year round, offers the possibility of making the best use of this type of area.

The MB-OpenSlide sliding doors allow the terrace to be opened on warm days, either to one side or symmetrically in relation to each other to two sides, depending on the number of doors used, says Michiel van Duren. The system is also distinguished by its good insulation values, which means that closing it at lower temperatures ensures that the terrace is effectively protected from cold, moisture and heat loss. 

It should also be noted that panoramic glazing is also suitable for commercial premises and public buildings. The aluminum doors of the MB-100GFT system are suitable for this type of investment. They are used in shopping malls, restaurants and government buildings. These doors are robust and have high mechanical resistance, up to 1,000,000 cycles. This system can be used to manufacture single doors, double doors, shop windows and spatial constructions, among others, all characterized by aesthetic design, ease of use and user safety. 

...But what to do when there is too much sun?

Aluprof has launched an innovative solution that effectively protects buildings from excessive sunlight without limiting the availability of natural daylight. SkyTwin is a combination of a roller shutter and a screen and provides a true breakthrough in the industry. In fact, this combination allows the optimal indoor temperature to be maintained, which saves on electricity and heating costs. Importantly, SkyTwin does not affect the construction of the windows or support structures, which not only preserves the aesthetics of the façade but also keeps the energy balance out of harm's way.

Let's build a better future!

The application of panoramic windows has a positive effect not only on the aesthetics of the building, but also on its functionality and energy efficiency. In accordance with the principles of sustainable construction, the industry must increasingly open up to nature in its building solutions. The use of modern solutions will fully integrate residential and commercial construction with the environment so that they can work together for the benefit of the future of future generations. 

Follow the "Building of the Year with Aluprof Systems" contest. All information about this competition can be found on the Future Builders website.