Issues in Window Selection
Typically, aesthetics and costs are major factors in making design decisions about windows in commercial buildings. The need to reduce unwanted heat loss and heat gain has been the major energy-related issue in window design and selection. In addition, window design is influenced by various functional requirements like air- and water-tightness, as well as structural and acoustical performance. More recently, new driving forces have emerged in commercial window design and selection: human factors, environmental impact, and a more holistic understanding of building energy use. There is a need for an integrated approach to window design and selection that takes into account this expanded set of issues.
