The Cornerstones of Comfort: How to Choose the Right Windows and Doors for Your Climate

Windows and doors connect the inside of homes and buildings to the outside and the surroundings. In doing so, they contribute to the aesthetic of the design and architecture of the spaces. They provide views as well as daylight and ventilation.

Windows and doors are also by far the weakest links of a building in terms of protection provided to its occupants. The common saying that ‘all windows leak’ is based on the reality of this weakness. Aside from rain leaks, poor choices made for windows and doors lead to thermal discomfort, mold/condensation, cold air drafts, as well as overheating.

The good news is that there are some great products out there that—if properly selected—can deliver the necessary level of protection depending on the severity of local climate.

This presentation illustrates specific criteria used to evaluate the quality window/door products. The intent is to help participants navigate through the many options available, and make informed decisions leading to cost-aware selection of climate-suitable products without overkill.

Presenter: Enrico Bonilauri
Enrico Bonilauri holds two Masters Degrees — one in Architecture from the University of Parma, Italy, and one in Design Science from the University of Sydney, Australia. As a registered Italian Architect and Certified Passive House Designer, he has worked in Australia, Europe, and North America. He specializes in building envelope design and analysis, informed by the thousands of hours spent on construction sites. Speaker experience includes: International Passive House Conference in Germany, Austria, China, national Passive House conferences in the US, Canada, Spain, Australia and New Zealand. He’s been the scientific curator of Emu’s Passive House training curriculum, and has been training American builders since 2017.