Comparative Study of Wood and Aluminum Windows in Commercial Buildings

Course Description: Both wood and aluminum windows are being used extensively in today’s commercial and institutional buildings, especially in education, health care, and offices. Using project case studies from across the United States, this program examines how window selection criteria (aesthetics, cost, energy efficiency, and sustainability) impact the design process. As we look at commercial window applications which include punched openings, storefronts, and curtain walls, architects will learn some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of wood or aluminum windows in each application. As we compare aesthetics, cost, energy efficiency, and sustainability, architects will improve their ability to objectively advise their clients on what is the best window solution for their next project.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how the aesthetic attributes of wood and aluminum windows contribute to interior environments that are livable, comfortable, productive, safe, and beautiful.
• Identify the initial costs associated with wood and aluminum windows and how they impact the life cycle assessment of the window systems.
• Compare how the physical attributes of wood and aluminum windows contribute to the overall energy efficiency of the building envelope.
• Use energy modeling to determine the annual energy costs for wood and aluminum window systems in different climatic zones.

Photo: © Ed Wonsek

Delivery: Live

Internal Course Code: P123

Duration: 1h

HSW Compatible: Yes

Point of Contact Name: Architectural Solutions

Point of Contact Email: ArchitecturalSolutions@Pella.com