As the world continues to work towards reaching net zero goals, the construction sector has identified windows and doors as overlooked key elements in the green building revolution.
Prioritising the environmental credentials of these essential building elements, manufacturers and builders are now focusing on emerging sustainable practices such as producing double-glazed windows from recycled materials.
New developments in this industry showcase the growing importance of such conscious processes when it comes to the manufacturing of entryways. This shift, combined with the projected growth of the composite door and window industry from US$835.9 million in 2024 to US$1.7 billion by 2034, spells out a broader commitment to strive for significant environmental improvements within the sector.
Utilising recycled materials in the production of double-glazed windows can be regarded as a step in the right direction when considering the environmental benefits this offers.
According to industry experts, the primary components of these windows — unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) and glass — are incredibly easy to recycle.
The process for this includes the separation of its various components, such as removing the frame from the glazing unit, which are then recycled individually.
There are many environmental advantages associated with the use of recycled materials when it comes to the production of windows. However, the most significant one includes the substantial reduction in energy consumption.
It is estimated that using recycled aluminium for double-glazed windows can reduce energy expenditure by up to 95 per cent compared to the use of newly sourced aluminium. Similarly, frame production comprising recycled steel can result in energy savings of up to 60 per cent.
The process for recycling glass when it comes to double-glazed windows has proven to be equally impressive. Fresh glass sheets made from recycled materials can consist of up to 30 per cent of recycled glass.
This significantly cuts the amount of raw materials needed during the production process.
Due to the reduced energy and resources, and repurposing of waste glass, this method has proven to be infinitely better for the environment; especially when compared to the standard process that the creation of new glass involves.
Some of the benefits of using aluminium in double-glazed windows include strength, durability and design flexibility.
The material also offers excellent insulation, aiding in the management of comfortable indoor temperatures and decreases the burden on heating and cooling systems.
Recent updates to the Australian National Construction Code (NCC) have continued to further progress the adoption of sustainable windows and doors, which now mandates a seven-star NatHERS energy rating for new residences.
Several experts involved in the green building movement are currently at the forefront of producing sustainable building elements, with a range of eco-friendly windows and doors manufactured from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified timber, recycled aluminium and low-carbon glass on offer.
As the building sector evolves, the specific role that windows and doors play in sustainable building designs will become increasingly crucial.
Windows and doors that have been poorly designed — or are simply outdated — can lead to serious thermal inefficiencies, resulting in increased temperature regulation costs.
On the other hand, modern and sustainable options offer superior energy performance, and condensation resistance, and add to achieving LEED certification.
The transition towards environmentally-conscious windows and doors involves a mutually advantageous scenario for both the environment and consumers.
Manufacturers will continue to advance in this direction as they proceed to develop and market more innovative solutions in the years to come.
Apart from enforcing existing global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, this trend also delivers long-term cost savings for homeowners and building operators through thermal efficiency.