The right microclimate in a home is the basis for the wellbeing and health of its inhabitants. Proper ventilation plays a key role in this process, eliminating pollutants and providing fresh air.

Windows, as an integral part of a building, have a really big impact on indoor air quality. Did you know that choosing high quality window frames, can significantly improve ventilation and contribute to maintaining a healthy microclimate in your home?

How important is the role of windows for effective ventilation and how can their potential in this regard be maximised? In this article, we will thoroughly answer all the most important questions.

What is your home microclimate?

The microclimate of a home is the set of environmental conditions inside the living space that affect the wellbeing, health and comfort of its occupants. It includes:

• temperature – the optimum temperature in the living areas should be between 20 and 22°C, ensuring thermal comfort without the need for excessive heating or cooling (negative impact on health and energy expenditure).
• humidity – too low a humidity can lead to dry mucous membranes and irritation of the respiratory tract, while too high a humidity encourages the growth of moulds and dust mites. The ideal humidity in the home should be between 40% and 60%.
• air movement – ensures adequate air exchange and eliminates pollutants, including excess carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds or allergens.
• the level of pollutants – both those from outside and those generated inside (e.g. from building materials, furniture, electronic equipment or cooking) have a direct impact on the health of residents.

Fundamentals of a healthy indoor microclimate

A healthy microclimate in the home depends on many factors, including the right temperature, humidity and air quality. Each of these issues is undoubtedly influenced by proper ventilation, which is essential for maintaining the basic parameters at an optimal level. It allows the removal of excess humidity, carbon dioxide and other pollutants that can negatively affect the health of the occupants.

In this respect, an essential (necessary and most effective) element is the regular ventilation of rooms to maintain a fresh and healthy environment in domestic spaces. It is also worth mentioning that adequate ventilation contributes to the reduction of allergens and pathogens in the air – this is especially important for people suffering from allergies, asthma or other respiratory diseases.

Windows, when opened regularly, allow a natural exchange of air, which is one of the most effective ways to improve the quality of the atmosphere in the home. This is why the choice and skilful use of windows has a direct impact on the health and well-being of the occupants of the home.

The role of windows in home ventilation

Windows play a key role in the natural ventilation of the home, allowing a controlled exchange of air between inside and outside. Did you know that it is not enough just to open the windows? The type and method of opening window frames have a major impact on the effectiveness of ventilation.

In the context of the home microclimate, tilt and turn windows will be particularly recommended because of their ability to regulate the air flow. Tilting the window at the top allows warm, ‘used’ air to escape, while opening it at the bottom allows fresh, cooler air to come in from outside, which promotes natural circulation in the room.

Modern window solutions and improved ventilation

Developments in window technology have opened up new possibilities for improving ventilation in homes and flats. One simple but very innovative solution is the micro-ventilation system, which allows a constant exchange of air even when the windows are closed. Thanks to the small ventilation openings, fresh air can flow freely into the interior while reducing heat loss. This solution is particularly beneficial in winter, when traditional ventilation methods can lead to a significant reduction in room temperature.

An extremely modern technology is smart windows, equipped with sensors for temperature, humidity and even air quality, which automatically adjust the degree of window opening as required. These systems can be integrated into the home’s smart-home system, allowing remote control and monitoring of internal conditions. In this way, occupants have full control over the microclimate in the home, resulting in better air quality and a much more comfortable daily life.

Practical tips for window ventilation

To maximise the potential of windows in providing effective ventilation, it is worth following a few practical tips.

• Firstly, regular room ventilation should be a staple – even brief but frequent window opening can significantly improve the air quality in the home. The ideal time for ventilation is in the morning and evening hours, when the air outside is usually cooler and fresher.
• Secondly, take advantage of the ‘draught’ by opening windows on opposite sides of the building. In this way, you will manage to promote circulation. This action is particularly effective on warm days, when the temperature difference between inside and outside promotes natural airflow.
• Thirdly, remember to maintain and clean your windows and all seals regularly. This will ensure that they will function properly throughout their lifetime and provide you with the maximum level of proper ventilation.