AUTHENTIC SCANDINAVIAN
Throughout our website, we frequently mention how our windows are both designed and made in Scandinavia. This is because Scandinavia has a worldwide reputation for quality and ingenuity, especially when it comes to construction. Windows are no exception.
Due to the harsh climate they face every day, Scandinavians have developed time-tested high quality windows to protect their structures from the elements. Because of this, our windows rate much higher than the average window in the USA when comparing energy efficiency or build quality. We also get the added benefit of functional Scandinavian features like ventilation modes, gliding hinges, the ability to clean the outside of the window from inside, and so on.
Our Windows or Other Aluminum-Clad Wood Windows?
Our windows are often described as aluminum-clad wood windows. In fact, true aluminum-clad windows are basically a standard timber window with a piece of aluminum clipped to the outer face of the window. This creates a gap between the aluminum and timber, allowing air and therefore moisture and dirt to penetrate the timber, thus requiring it to be treated with environmentally unfriendly anti-rot chemicals. As the timber section is indirectly exposed, the aluminum would have to be periodically removed and the timber section refurbished to maximize the life of the window.
On the other hand, true bonded aluminum wood windows utilize a high density timber inner section bonded to a powder coated aluminum outer section to create a window with maximum lifespan and minimum maintenance. The primary benefit of the true composite Skandia system over aluminum clad windows is that the timber and aluminum is bonded via a butyl tape, which is compressed to eradicate all air. No air means no condensation can build between the timber and aluminum sections. This creates the added benefit of allowing the window to be sealed in the building at the extreme outside face of the aluminum, meaning no part of the timber section is exposed to the elements. This in turn means the timber section doesn’t need to be preserved, leading to a more environmentally friendly product with a longer lifespan and less maintenance.
To back these claims, all windows and doors are offered with a 10-year general warranty and an additional 20 year warranty to protect against rot.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
As mentioned in the previous section, our windows are extremely energy efficient thanks to the high quality Scandinavian designs and materials used. Of course, energy efficiency is not just a buzz word. It is a very real thing which can have huge benefits for the homeowner.
At the top of the list, Energy efficiency means lower electricity bills which will allow homeowners to save money over time, making our products a great long-term investment. Another big benefit is comfort. Our windows do a great job of keeping your home comfortable and quiet without much effort from your heating or cooling systems. Last but not least, energy efficiency in windows and doors is a great way to lower overall power consumption and preserve natural resources.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
From the trees used in our frames to the paint on their finished exteriors, our windows are made with sustainability in mind. First and foremost, our timber is sourced from properly managed and sustainable forests in Scandinavia backed by the PEFC. The paint we use to finish the wood and aluminum exterior is water based to prevent the spread of harmful chemicals in our environment. Our aluminum uses at least 15% recyclable material and is 100% recyclable at the end of its service life. Our glass cassettes contain no harmful gasses such as SF6. Finally, the overall quality of our windows is extremely high and built to last over 50 years, preventing the unnecessary waste of building materials and natural resources.
AFFORDABLE PRICES
We are not in the business of greed and we fully believe our customers will benefit greatly from using our windows. Because of this, we believe our prices will be much lower than what you may expect for a “premium European window”. Our quotes regularly come in at least 30% cheaper than comparable quotes from big name competitors. We encourage you to speak with us to get an idea of what your desired windows and doors may cost. We think you’ll be surprised, especially considering the long term energy and replacement costs you will save on with our products in your home.