Prestige Windows & Doors

Certified vs. Non-Certified Passiv haus Windows: Which Option is Right for Your Irish Home?

Above – Our SW14 Outward opening Aluclad window.

The Pros of Passivhaus Certified Windows

  • Outstanding Thermal Insulation
    Passivhaus certified windows from Prestige Windows + Doors are built with the highest standards of thermal insulation. With U-values of 0.8 W/m²K and lower, these windows prevent heat loss in the winter and minimize heat gain in summer—essential for Ireland’s variable climate.
  • Airtightness for Comfort
    Certified windows are designed to be extremely airtight, preventing drafts and cold spots. This means that your home will stay consistently comfortable, even on the coldest winter days or during Ireland’s often damp, chilly summers.
  • Superior Energy Efficiency
    These windows contribute directly to your home’s energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. By minimizing energy loss, you can enjoy lower energy bills and reduce your environmental footprint.
  • Solar Heat Gain Control
    Prestige Windows + Doors’ certified windows are optimized to balance solar heat gain. In the colder months, they allow valuable sunlight to enter and warm your home, while minimizing overheating during warmer months.
  • Long-Term Durability
    The materials used in certified Passivhaus windows are high-quality, offering long-term durability and resistance to the elements. With proper maintenance, these windows will continue to perform at a high level for years to come.
  • Noise Reduction
    Triple glazing and advanced sealing technology in certified windows from Prestige Windows + Doors also help reduce external noise, which is particularly beneficial for homes in busy or noisy areas.

 

The Cons of Passivhaus Certified Windows

  • Higher Initial Cost
    The main drawback of Passivhaus certified windows is the higher upfront cost. This is due to the superior materials and in particular, the formal testing process required for certification. However, the long-term energy savings often offset this initial investment.
  • Limited Availability
    Certified windows are not as widely available as standard energy-efficient options. In Ireland, sourcing these windows can sometimes take longer, and you may need to plan ahead to ensure timely delivery.
  • Longer Lead Time
    Due to the specialized nature of certified windows, there can be a longer wait time for manufacturing and delivery. If you have tight project timelines, this could impact your schedule.

What about Non-Certified Passivhaus Windows?

Non-certified Passivhaus windows are designed to provide the same level of energy efficiency and thermal performance as certified windows, but without undergoing the formal certification process. These windows can still meet or exceed industry standards for energy efficiency, airtightness, and comfort, but they are not formally tested by the Passivhaus Institute.

At Prestige Windows + Doors, we offer a large range of non-certified windows that deliver excellent performance for homes aiming for energy efficiency, even if full Passivhaus certification is not required. Many Irish homeowners choose non-certified windows for their ability to offer great performance at a more accessible cost.

The Pros of Non-Certified Passivhaus Windows

  • Lower Initial Cost
    One of the most significant benefits of non-certified windows is the lower upfront cost. Without the expense of formal certification, these windows are generally more affordable, making them a good choice for those with budget constraints.
  • Similar Performance at a Lower Cost
    Non-certified windows from Prestige Windows + Doors can achieve nearly the same level of energy efficiency as certified windows. These windows are designed with high-quality glazing and well-insulated frames, making them an excellent option for those who want the energy performance of Passivhaus windows without the added cost of certification.
  • Wider Availability
    Non-certified windows are more readily available than certified windows. Prestige Windows + Doors offers a wide selection of non-certified window options, making it easier for you to find the perfect fit for your home.
  • Faster Installation
    Because non-certified windows are generally easier to source and manufacture, they often have shorter lead times, allowing for faster installation. If you’re working on a tight timeline, this can be a significant advantage.
  • Customizable Features
    Prestige Windows + Doors provides non-certified windows with a wide range of customizable options, including frame materials (wood, composite, aluminium) and a variety of finishes, ensuring that you can find a design that suits your home’s aesthetic.

 

The Cons of Non-Certified Passivhaus Windows

  • Slightly Lower Energy Efficiency
    While non-certified windows from Prestige Windows + Doors perform very well in terms of thermal insulation and airtightness, they may not achieve the same U-values or airtightness as certified windows. However, the difference in performance is typically minimal, especially when using high-quality windows.
  • Less Assurance of Performance?
    Non-certified windows haven’t undergone the formal Passivhaus testing process, so there’s possibly a bit less assurance that they will meet the exacting performance standards of certified products. However, Prestige Windows + Doors ensures that all their windows, certified or non-certified, are made to high standards and deliver strong performance – all are fully testedto European Standards and guaranteed for 10 years.
  • No Formal Sustainability Certification
    Non-certified windows may not have formal sustainability certification, although Prestige Windows + Doors still prioritizes using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing processes – Our Aluclad windows come with full FSC certification.

 

Which Option is Right for Your Home?

Choosing between Passivhaus certified windows and non-certified windows depends on your project’s goals, budget, and desired performance level.

If you are committed to achieving Passivhaus certification and want to meet the strictest energy-efficiency standards, Passivhaus certified windows from Prestige Windows + Doors will help ensure that your home meets all the necessary criteria for a truly sustainable, ultra-low-energy building.

However, if you are looking to achieve similar performance without the additional cost of formal certification, non-certified Passivhaus windows are a fantastic choice. Many homeowners in Ireland choose Prestige Windows + Doors‘ non-certified windows because they provide excellent energy efficiency, comfort, and durability—at a more accessible price.

At Prestige Windows + Doors, we offer both certified and non-certified options in Timber Aluclad and full Aluminium frames, allowing you to choose the solution that best suits your budget and energy efficiency goals. No matter which option you select, you can be confident that you’re investing in high-quality, energy-efficient windows that will provide comfort and performance for years to come.

Contact us today to explore our range of Passivhaus certified and non-certified windows, and let us help you create a more energy-efficient and sustainable home in Ireland.

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