Knowing what you want, determining requirements clearly are the necessary first steps in any project. And in the context of home renovation, it is no different. For Windows and Grilles there are quite a few options to consider before contracting out the work. The type of windows, the frame, glass color and grille design all should gel well with the rest of your house décor.
But with so many types, designs and colors to choose from how to make the most sensible choice? In addition to aesthetics, the usability and practicality aspects also must be weighed in.
In this post we hope to simply and demystify some of these factors to enable you make the right decision for yourself.
Window Design and Styles
There are many considerations for choosing the type, style and design of Windows and accompanying Grilles. While there may be guidelines which could influence the type and style you must go for, ultimately, it is individual preference, taste and budget that governs the choice. Here are common attributes to think about –
Types of Windows in Singapore
| # | Type | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | SLIDING |
|
| 2 | CASEMENT |
|
| 3 | AWNING |
|
| 4 | FULLY OPENABLE |
|
| 5 | LOUVRE |
|
Popular Choice – SLIDING & CASEMENT WINDOWS
Colour of Window Frames
| # | Colour | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | WHITE |
|
| 2 | SILVER |
|
| 3 | DARK BROWN, TEAL, GREY, ETC |
|
Popular Choice – WHITE COLOUR FRAMES
Types of Window Glass
| # | Type | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | PLAIN |
|
| 2 | FROSTED |
|
| 3 | TEMPERED |
|
| 4 | DOUBLE GLAZED |
|
Popular Choice – PLAIN GLASS
Colour of Window Glass
| # | Colour | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | NO COLOUR, UN-TINTED |
|
| 2 | SEA GREEN |
|
| 3 | BLUE |
|
| 4 | BROWN |
|
Popular Choice – SEA GREEN COLOUR
Grille Design and Styles
Your choice of Grilles will rest on a few factors. While there may be guidelines/regulations (like those prescribed by MCST in Singapore condominiums) that may influence your decision, but other than that it boils down to the individual’s preference, taste and budget. Here is a short video on window grill design to give you an idea –
Some common attributes for a Window Grille that you need to think about –
Types of Window Grilles
| # | Type | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | ALUMINIUM |
|
| 2 | WROUGHT IRON |
|
| 3 | INVISIBLE |
|
| 4 | STEEL |
|
Popular Choice – ALUMINIUM
Type of Tubes (for Aluminium Grilles)
| # | Type | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | OVAL SINGLE HOLLOW |
|
| 2 | OVAL DOUBLE HOLLOW |
|
| 3 | ROUND HOLLOW |
|
| 4 | ROUND SOLID |
|
| 5 | OVAL/ROUND HOLLOW EXTRA THICK |
|
Popular Choice – SINGLE OVAL HOLLOW
Colour of Window Grilles
| # | Colour | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | SAME AS WINDOW FRAME COLOUR |
|
| 2 | GOLDEN & BLACK |
|
| 3 | SILVER & BLACK |
|
| 4 | MONOTONE |
|
Designs of Aluminium Grilles
| # | Design | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | VERTICAL OR SLANTED |
|
| 2 | HORIZONTAL |
|
| 3 | COMBINATION |
|
| 4 | MESH |
|
Popular Choice – COMBINATION
Designs of Wrought Iron Grilles
| # | Type | Pros and Cons |
| 1 | VARIOUS THEMES (FLORAL, GEOMETRIC, ETC) |
|
| 2 | CUSTOMIZED DESIGN |
|
Number of Panels and Tracks
For Sliding Windows
For Sliding Windows more panels mean you get a wider opening when the panels are slid and stacked at the ends. So, a 4-panel set gives an aperture of 50% whereas a 6-panel set gives an aperture of 66%. However, a 6-panel set requires 3 bottom tracks to function as compared to a 4 panel where in 2 tracks are sufficient.
| Panels | Number of Tracks | Opening |
| 3 or 6 PANELS | 3 tracks | 66% Opening |
| 2 or 4 PANELS | 2 tracks | 50% Opening |
While a bigger opening means better ventilation and unrestricted view, two factors that need to be considered when opting for higher number of tracks-
- Wall thickness, if it is enough to accommodate the width of the track section
- Cleaning and maintenance effort, which will be slightly more
For Casement Windows
Casement Windows are simpler in this regard. You may decide on the number of panels based on your usage preferences. However, do note that for casements, the window leaf cannot exceed a maximum width of 700 mm as per HDB/BCA guidelines.
For Grilles
Typical Aluminium Grilles usually are installed in the 4-panel 2-track configuration. In HDB units for Kitchen Windows, it is advisable to have more panel/tracks (hence wider opening) if possible, so as to have ease in hanging your laundry for drying.
Customizations in Windows and Grilles
In most cases, requirements are standard for a set of Windows and Grilles. Customizations, for a special purpose or for catering to future needs are best determined and to be communicated in the beginning. Subsequent alterations are not only a hassle but also expensive once an installation is done.
While customizations are a function of individual needs, common among them are –
- Soundproof Windows for noise reduction requirements
- Use of tempered glass in Windows as an added safety measure
- Special Anti-theft Locking mechanism for corridor windows
- Narrow gap Grille design to keep pets indoors or to safeguard the main door access (next to corridor windows)
- Getting a matching set of Number or Name Plate for your Door Gates
Checklist of Specifications
After you have determined all your requirements prepare a final specification list to record them. It will be worthwhile to do so since many a times details do fall through the cracks, and you may end up settling for something other than the desired. After all, Windows and Grilles could be a onetime investment you would do for your house.
For expert advice in choosing/finalizing your requirements, get in touch! The friendly team at Grilles N Glass is just a phone call away!
Get in touch
(65) 9100 8767
sales@grillesnglass.com
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