A common misconception about commercial windows is that they’re the same, just slightly larger, than residential windows, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Commercial windows have a lot of differences when compared to residential windows, however that doesn’t mean they cannot be used in a domestic setting. At Open Windows and Doors, we are Perth’s leading supplier of residential and commercial aluminium windows, let’s take a look at the differences between the two and why you might opt for commercial windows for your home.
What Are the Differences Between Residential and Commercial Windows?
At first glance, many commercial windows may appear quite similar in appearance to residential windows, but when you take a closer look there are a few significant differences including:
Frame and sash sizes – commercial window frames are usually wider, bulkier and have a slightly more industrial look when compared with the standard residential frames.
Window opening size – residential windows are traditionally used in homes or building renovation projects where window openings are not very large. By contrast the bold, square, chunky window systems you typically see in office buildings and shopfronts can span wider openings.
Thermal insulation – commercial windows are designed to limit the amount of solar heat that enters a property this is due to commercial properties generating a lot of interior heat from crowds, lighting, computers and electrical outlets. Sunlight that enters a commercial property can cause many overheating issues if not correctly counteracted. Residential properties, on the other hand, rely on sunlight for heating, and they are not crowded nor do they create a lot of interior heat. Commercial windows require special coatings, high-performance glazing and other measures to limit the amount of solar radiation that enters the property.
Commercial windows are also required to have higher wind ratings and although not always the case, commercial windows often come complete with higher quality hardware.
Why Choose Commercial Windows for Your Home?
The reasons why you might opt for a commercial window system over a residential one for your home may include:
- Aesthetics – home owners may prefer the look of bulkier, squarer looking frames which are well suited to modern, contemporary architectural designs.
- Performance – larger framing can often allow for greater glass thickness whether it be single or double glazed which can help to improve overall thermal performance.
- Size – The option to create bigger windows is also a major factor which influences the selection and specification of commercial systems.
Unless you have a specific requirement you must meet, choosing one over the other is a matter of personal preference and budget. Increasingly home owners are opting for wider, bolder frames and sash designs traditionally associated with commercial style windows for use in their home or domestic building project.
If you would like more advice on how commercial windows could work for your property, then contact the professionals at Open Windows and Doors. We are Perth’s leading supplier of residential and commercial windows, with many years’ experience supplying high quality, functional aluminium products to homes and businesses all over Perth we have the window solution for your requirements. Give us a call today on 1300 180 280 and book a consultation with our window experts.