What is a thermal break and why do our aluminium windows have them?

Aluminium windows are a popular choice for many homeowners in Essex, and right across the UK. Particularly favoured for their slim sightlines, minimal and modern appearance, aluminium windows are extremely low maintenance, as well as incredibly strong and corrosion resistance preventing them from rotting or warping. However, aluminium is not a natural insulator, which means the valuable warmth within your home would escape if your windows were solely constructed from aluminium. Yet, before you dismiss installing beautiful aluminium windows altogether, all is not lost, as modern and innovative manufacturing processes have created a solution just for this! Ensuring aluminium windows are practical as well as aesthetically pleasing, ultra-efficient thermal breaks are sandwiched into modern aluminium window frames. Allow us to explain further…  

What is a thermal break?

A thermal break is simply a piece of material positioned within an aluminium window frame to minimise heat loss. It separates the aluminium frame into two separate interior and exterior sections, combined with less conductive materials such as polyamide or polyurethane. The ‘break’ it creates effectively reduces temperature transfer and ensures the windows achieve certain performance qualities. Here at Chigwell Window Centre, we utilise innovative thermal break technology to ensure all our customers who want the enviable Scandinavian, minimalistic appearance of modern aluminium windows never have to compromise on crucial thermal performance.  

 Why do our aluminium windows have thermal breaks? 

Thermal break technology is an important feature within an aluminium window as it helps regulate the temperature within your home, keeping you cosy and warm in winter and cool in summer. Combined with triple or double glazing, our aluminium windows are rated A for thermal efficiency and can achieve U values as low as 0.8 W/m2K. Due to their performance, they can reduce the amount of energy you use to heat your home, decreasing your bills and your carbon footprint; a fantastic step forward to saving our planet! As well as ensuring your home is well insulated, thermal breaks strengthen the frames and reduce the likelihood of condensation. Without the thermal break, aluminium frames installed in high humidity rooms (such as the kitchen and bathroom) would produce condensation, due to the fact that aluminium is much colder than the humid air inside your home, so it would react to warmer temperatures. With a Chigwell Windows installation, you can be sure your replacement aluminium windows are extremely durable and energy-efficient, whilst add a stunning feature to the exterior of your home.

Slender aluminium windows for homes in London & Essex

Although aluminium windows feature modern technology and are known for their contemporary appearance, our aluminium windows suit any style of property. Whether you have a period property in Brentwood or a modern new build, you can customise the design to perfectly complement your exterior and personal taste. We can finish them with an almost maintenance-free paint powder coating in a range of smooth colours, meaning they won’t fade or warp over time: aluminium windows last on average about 45 years! Available in any RAL colour, including sought-after shades such as Chartwell Green and Anthracite Grey, and with the option of a convincing woodgrain finish, you can be sure your new windows will considerably boost your homes kerb appeal! Contact us today or visit one of our showrooms to see our beautiful collection of windows for yourself!