Criteria for climatic applicability of modern window types

Currently, the assignment of the required values of the technical and operational windows characteristics (such as resistance to heat transfer, air permeability, sound insulation, etc.) is carried out based on the technological capabilities of the window industry, and not on the basis of scientifically substantiated requirements for ensuring the microclimate and energy buildings efficiency in the design practice of most countries (as it happens in the case of external walls which are in almost identical operating conditions with windows, for example). One of the most common types of windows in modern construction practice are single windows with insulated glass units and profiles made of PVC and aluminum alloys. They were originally developed for operation in Western Europe where they have proven themselves well over many years of operation. However, their widespread use in the climatic conditions of the Russian Federation and the countries of Eastern Europe showed a number of problems during operation which is expressed in a decrease in the technical and operational characteristics of windows due to temperature deformations of their profile elements. This circumstance testifies to the limited area of application of these structures in terms of climatic conditions. The authors of the work introduce the concept of “climatic applicability of windows” in order to determine the rational application areas of types of windows which would ensure the fulfillment of the specified requirements for the comfort of the microclimate of the premises in any operation period of the building. Based on the results of the analysis of the work of third-party researchers and the authors own works the authors have determined a set of criteria for the climatic applicability of modern types of windows based on winter operating conditions. Promising areas for further research were considered