Recessed Windows
THE PROBLEM:
Current NZ Building Code requirements were developed primarily to deal with the risk of windows not being watertight, positioning windows out over an exterior wall cavity to prevent water getting in.
BUT this places the window frame and glass outside the insulation line, in the colder part of the wall.
In autumn and winter, this keeps the frame and glass colder, losing heat and generating condensation on both the frame and the glass.
The current NZ Building Code does not include any requirements to address summer overheating.
THE SOLUTION:
Recessing the window frame in line with the insulation in the wall is a simple change that protects the frame and glass from external temperatures. This basic change will bring huge improvements to the home:
● Reducing heat loss in winter
● Reducing condensation and moisture buildup in the home and so reducing the risk of mould
Benjy Simmons: Stärke Windows
“The warm barrier down the middle of the glass and down the middle of the frame needs to be CONNECTED to the warm barrier of insulation in your wall.”
Andrew Krupa: Koffman Windows
“Windows should be recessed into the wall where the thermal barrier of the window is connected to the thermal barrier of the wall. Recessed installation does not require specific builders, tools, or any extra certifications. The reason why most windows aren’t recessed installed is because there is a lack of awareness and readiness to change from old methods.”
Clayton Mitchell: Statement Homes
“You don’t have to rev it right out to the best option that’s available, you can just start at the very beginning and have your thermally broken windows recessed back into the frame, little things like that. You’re still going to have to get windows so you might as well put them back in within the line of the thermal break of the walls.”
Benjy Simmons: Stärke Windows
“Nearly all windows in NZ are installed the wrong way, and it remains the default setting the the Building Code. This issue has arisen very uniquely in the NZ market due to the way the Building Code works, the products which have been available, and the industry knowledge around thermal performance... and it’s time we all fixed it!
Recessed window installation is NOT greatly more expensive, nor more complicated, than old-fashioned Building Code installation.”
Dan Saunders, Dan Saunder Construction demonstrates installing a recessed window, 2024 SUPERHOME TOURS
