| 95 T T Kim Bowden Windows designed for the views Their high-performance products help keep homes warm in winter, cool in summer, and energy efficient year-round. E13 Performance Windows JOINERY A long-standing Otago business offers a solution for homeowners wanting expansive windows to take in the region’s stunning scenery and create seamless indoor-outdoor flow without compromising on comfort. With its roots in a family business for almost 25 years, E13 Performance Windows has built a reputation for producing joinery that makes a difference from its base on Dunedin’s Kaikorai Valley Road. Their high-performance products help keep homes warm in winter, cool in summer, and energy efficient yearround. Manager Jamie Waller says the company fills a niche, particularly in Central Otago and Southern Lakes, where homeowners want large windows, often in architecturally designed homes, but also value elements similar to passive house design, which focuses on reduced energy demand, airtight construction, and thermal comfort. “Windows started out as just a small piece of glass buried in the wall, so that people get a wee bit of light come through,” Jamie says. “But now we often want a whole wall of glass, so that we can have all that natural light flood in – and have all that scenery as well.” Many of the company’s clientele are not willing to sacrifice form for function. They may want to go as far as they can in the direction of passive housing with thermal quality, while still getting the views and indoor-outdoor flow they are after, Jamie says. “The products for these types of home require lots of attention to detail – they’re not the most efficient windows to manufacture, and not all factories are geared up for it,” Jamie says. “But for us, it was a good fit for our high skillset, so we decided to really have a crack at it and we’ve achieved great results.” The company’s manufacturing takes place in Dunedin, with a strong emphasis on sourcing materials locally. “Using aluminium that is smelted at Tiwai then extruded by Altus Window Systems in Hamilton, and sourcing some of the best high-performing glass manufactured in Christchurch, E13 Performance Windows combines products with craftsmanship attention to detail,” Jamie says. It’s a small team – around 20 across the business, from admin to manufacturing, with a skilled team that brings the windows and doors to life. At any one time, they can be juggling up to 70 projects servicing a broad range of clientele from homeowners looking for a replacement window, to supplying high-end architecturally designed homes seeking the best products, as well as commercial projects, from upgrading schools and offices all the way through to large commercial ventures. Jamie says there have been industry advances in triple glazing and glass treatments that retain heat or reflect it, and the company continues to seek innovation. A big shift is happening in doors, however. Jamie says there’s a clear trend towards oversized pivot ones – particularly as statement front entries. These oversized doors present both design and technical challenges – from selecting the right hardware and ensuring smooth operation, to sealing them effectively so airflow stays in check. “We really enjoy these challenges and are very proud of the results we’ve been able to achieve,” Jamie says. Triple Glazing Low E Metro Triple Glazing - next generation high performance glass. Design Freedom Up to *82% higher thermal performance Up to *73% better solar control Safety and Security Environmental benefits Trusted, local supplier * Compared to Standard Double Glazing Contact Us 0800 545 800 info@metroglass.co.nz Proud to support Single Low E Double Low E
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