There are many factors to consider when selecting a window or a door, including environment, energy efficiency, sound insulation, wind resistance, and watertightness at varying wind levels. There isn’t a single window that is universally the best. For example, some windows, such as mall storefront windows, are designed for interior use and have no water-resistant design pressure rating. This doesn’t make them bad windows, but they must be used in the appropriate application.

When used as part of the exterior envelope, windows and doors should meet or exceed the water-resistant design pressure requirements for the building’s environment, as this is critical to the functionality and watertightness of the building envelope. For instance, a building located on a bluff or in an area subject to high wind loads may require a window or door with a minimum of 10 lbs PSF water-resistant design pressure, whereas a house in the middle of Los Angeles might only need a window or door with a 6 lbs PSF water-resistant design pressure. It’s essential to not only meet the environmental demands but also to include a margin of safety to account for expected weather fluctuations.

A third-party Building Envelope Expert, like California Consultants, can guide you in selecting the right windows and doors for your project.

Learn more about the comprehensive consulting services our firm can offer for all aspects of building envelopes including the selection and proper installation of the best windos and doors for your building.