You might choose large glass doors for the light, the views or the way they open your living space to the garden. But when you are looking at energy efficient aluminium doors, what matters just as much is how the room feels on a cold morning.
The same goes for your windows. Slim aluminium frames can look beautiful, but you also need them to help keep warmth inside. That’s where the frame, glazing and seals all make a difference.
Can aluminium doors really be energy efficient?
Aluminium is strong, which makes it possible to create slim frames around large areas of glass. It also conducts heat, so the construction of the frame matters.
Thermally broken aluminium systems include an insulating barrier between the inside and outside sections of the frame. This helps reduce heat passing through it. Combine that with well-insulated glazing and effective weather seals, and you can enjoy the look of aluminium without overlooking comfort.
What does a U-value mean for your home?
You will often see a U-value when comparing doors and windows. It measures how quickly heat passes through a product: the lower the number, the better its insulating performance.
Make sure you know what the figure covers. A U-value for the glass alone is different from one from the complete door or window. The size, configuration and glazing you choose can affect the final performance too.
Large glass doors that help keep the warmth in
If you want wide views and minimal framing, our aïr 400SS Plus Aluminium Minimal Frame Sliding Door offers U-values from 1.2 W/m2K. You can make glass a defining feature of your room while still giving thermal performance proper consideration.
If you would rather fold the doors back to create a wide opening to your garden, aïr 900 Bifolding Doors achieve U-values from 1.0 W/m2K. They also feature Teflon® coated interlocking weather seals to help keep the elements out, including around the hinges.
Both are energy efficient aluminium doors with different ways of using your space. Your choice comes down to the view you want, how you want the doors to open and the needs of your project.
Choose windows that work as hard as your doors
A comfortable home is about more than one set of doors. If your existing windows let warmth escape, you may feel it in the rooms you use every day.
Our aïr MOD Series window range pairs slim aluminium frames with thermal break technology and a choice of double or triple glazing. Depending on the style and specification, these windows and achieve U-values from 1.0 W/m2K.
You can choose from Contemporary, Heritage and Flush styles for a look that suits your home. Whether you are replacing every window or planning a single new space, you can also choose the glazing specification that meets your needs.
Find the right fit for your home
The best choice depends on more than whether you prefer sliding or bifolding doors. Think about the size of your opening, how often you will use it and whether you want an uninterrupted view or the option to open the space right up.
For windows, consider the style of your home and whether you are replacing glazing in one room or across the property. Discussing these details with your installer early on makes it easier to choose a design and thermal specification that work together.
Choose the complete specification, not just the glass
Low U-value glazing is useful, but the glass is only part of the picture. The frame, seals and quality of installation all contribute to how your new doors or windows perform.
When comparing options, ask for the U-value of the complete product in the size and configuration you want. It is the clearest way to judge what you are choosing for your home.
With aïr doors and windows, you can bring more light into your home while making comfort a priority. Ready to explore your options? Check out our sliding door and bifold door buyer’s guides for help choosing the right doors for your space.
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