European windows and doors are becoming quite popular among residential and commercial developers in North America. There are a few good reasons for this but it can often be confusing to anyone who isn’t familiar with what sets European windows and doors apart from their North American counterparts. » Stylish and versatile designsThere is no skirting the fact that European windows offer an aesthetic that can’t be matched by North American windows. European window and door designs are largely unfamiliar to North Americans so they add an instant element of character, history and intrigue to any space they’re installed in as users marvel at their novelty. For example, one of most popular styles is tilt & turn which is available for both windows and doors. The tilt & turn style is effectively three styles in one: a secure top venting hopper in the tilt position, an inward opening casement in the turn position and a tightly-sealed window or door when closed. All three of these styles are attainable in one aesthetically pleasing product.» Improved safety and energy efficiencyEuropean windows are praised for their safety and energy efficient features. Because European windows can be opened in so many different ways, they feature multiple locking points and dual weather seals which provide optimal air and water tightness. These multiple locking points are a terrific extra safety measure and because they are tested to such high standards during manufacturing can be reliable for years after being installed. Furthermore, European windows and doors are designed to regulate the movement of air between the interior and exterior of a home. Where North American windows and doors are basically limited to 'open' or 'closed', European windows have been designed to allow filtered air into a home through the sides, while allowing warm air to escape out of the home through the top.» The ability to fill large spaces and still functionEuropean windows and doors have a definite advantage when it comes to the versatility of spaces they’ll fit. The large chambers of European windows and doors accommodate the reinforcements required to be applied to large openings. In other words, European windows and doors have reinforcements that make them able to fill very large spaces without the functionality being compromised. This is an attractive feature, especially in homes that have stunning views that developers want to capture. Often, a view is used as the focal point of the design and the window or door that's chosen to showcase it can make or break the project. Where a blank pane of glass may suffice, the energy efficiency and functionality of a European design that offers and uninterrupted view and airflow will trump other products every time.In summary: European windows and doors do seem to perform betterThere are a number of reasons why European windows seem to be a cut above what’s being produced in North America. Higher testing standards and pressure from policy and product demand have lead European window manufacturers to produce a product that’s of higher quality while still being aesthetically pleasing.
Source: HighQ Windows & Doors
