Basically windows are included in wall-element for air circulation for exchange of gasses; allow light, view and privacy. Visually and physically relate one space to another and allow indoor and outdoor relationship. It influence arrangement of furniture and room decoration and links the wall background to other furnishings Well-planned and protected windows improve comfort year-round and reduce the need for heating in winter and cooling in summer. Window size, orientation, glazing treatment, shading and internal coverings can have a significant impact on energy efficiency and comfort.
The most appropriate size of windows for energy smart design depends on building orientation and the amount of thermal mass in the internal building materials. The total window area is best kept between 20–25% of the total floor area.
Roof windows and skylights should be kept as small as possible; be avoided in living and bedroom areas; provide summer shading and protection from winter heat loss. Window unitscan be fixed, operable, or a combination of the two. Fixed windows generally offer better air infiltration and water penetration resistance, and require less maintenance, than operable windows. On the other hand, operable windows allow for natural ventilation. Fixed windows typically consist of frame with an infill that are sealed together. Operable windows consist of a frame and sash that are weather sealed by weather strips in addition to the infill being sealed to the sash.
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