A guide to choosing the right windows or door configuration

Windows and doors are an integral role in defining a home or renovation project, enhancing energy efficiency, and ensuring daily comfort. Whether you're building a new home or starting a renovation project, selecting the right windows and doors that are tailored to you is essential for both the practicality and overall design.  

                      
From custom aluminium windows to classic hinged doors, the range of window and door options is expansive. In this article, we showcase window and door product considerations, offering insights to help you make an informed decision on what to use for your new build or renovation project.     

Product considerations for windows

Awning and Casement Windows

Practical, versatile, and easy to use, awning and casement windows work well with a wide range of architectural styles. Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom, while casement windows are hinged on the side and open like a door.

Awning and casement windows are an efficient and cost-effective way of opening windows to allow for ventilation and airflow throughout the home. With a wide range of different configuration options, they can be customised to suit any style and can be placed strategically with fixed panes making them a popular option for all areas of the house.

bifold windows

Functional and aesthetically pleasing, bifold windows are characterised by their unique folding mechanism, offering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. At DuCo you can choose from a number of panels that stack seamlessly to one side when opened, allowing a wide unobstructed outlook without taking up too much space.

               
Bifold windows are a great option to create an indoor-outdoor flow. Ideal for areas such as the kitchen or dining room, this style of window acts as a servery window, opening up and providing an interrupted view to your outdoor space or entertaining area. However, while bifold windows are great when open, once shut, there can be a number of aluminum panels that could obstruct your view. If you’re after an uninterrupted view at all times, our sliding windows may be a better choice. 

Fixed Windows

As the name suggests, fixed windows remain in one position and are not designed to be opened. When partnered with awning or casement windows this is a cost-effective way of increasing the window size to maximise the views and natural light. 

Large oversized fixed panes can also be used to frame a panoramic view of your surrounding environment and bring a feel of nature inside. These windows are great to use as a feature in entryways, living rooms & hallways.    

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are an ideal option for large spaces such as living rooms, kitchens, and servery areas due to their wide nature and sliding configuration. With minimal panels in the sliding window design, you can have uninterrupted views and significantly lighten up a room. There are countless configurations of sliding windows at DuCo, supporting a wide range of architectural designs.
 
This style of window moves horizontally so you can open and close windows as much or as little as you like, to have maximum control over airflow and ventilation. Opening horizontally within its own frame means these are also a great option for restricted spaces or areas where you don’t want any external obstructions such as walkways and decks.  

Product considerations for doors    

Folding Doors

Folding doors, sometimes referred to as accordion doors or bifold doors, allow multiple panels to fold and stack neatly to the side, for a wide opening between indoor and outdoor spaces. At DuCo, folding doors stand out with a unique folding hinge that allows the panels to stack beyond 90 degrees and pin back against external walls to provide a seamless entryway. However, if you choose this unique hinge, there will be some limitations to the configuration options available.

While folding doors are the most expensive type of door, they are popular for their ability to seamlessly blend interior and exterior areas, providing flexibility in usage and allowing for an expansive, unobstructed view when fully opened. Folding doors are popular choices for traditional designs that want larger openings in living areas.

Sliding Doors        

       
With wide-spanning panels, sliding doors are a popular choice in modern homes, providing minimal interruptions to outdoor views and large openings for easy flow. DuCo elevates their sliding doors with cutting-edge track systems that enable frames to be seamlessly integrated into the floor creating level entry and smooth access from indoor flooring to outdoor surfaces.

With a range of configurations from single sliding to multi-stacking, there are various options suitable for an expansive range of rooms acting as a large and controlled opening. Sliding doors are commonly used in bedrooms or smaller living rooms, and stackers or bi-part sliders are commonly used for bigger living areas, especially for those with a larger outlook. 

Hinged Doors                    

Classic hinged doors are popular for their simple design and customisable features, providing a reliable option for a number of access points. Commonly found in garages, laundries, and other service rooms, their flexible configuration options like single or double-door can allow for an access option that is cost-effective and reliable. 

DuCo also offers an integrated secure locking method and digital hardware for added safety, while making convenient and practical access points.      

Entry Doors

Entry doors serve as the primary access point to a space, playing a crucial role in any home or renovation design. It sets the tone for its overall look, especially from the outside.            

Given their exposure, durability is essential for entry doors. DuCo offers three premium materials; aluminium, timber, and composite which are high-quality, robust options that ensure long-lasting performance, and a beautiful design. Using an entry door in your build can make a statement and be the defining first impression of your home. 

DuCo 

If you're looking to replace windows or decide what windows and doors you want for your new home or renovation project, DuCo offers a range of options. From double-glazed windows to custom aluminium windows and doors, DuCo ensures to create spaces you love to be in, with customisations and solutions that are tailored to you. Download our free guide to specifying windows and doors to learn more about what to consider when specifying the windows and doors in your home, or renovation project.