The main considerations are safety for maintenance access and cleaning, however this is an opportunity to have an aesthetically pleasing result as well as an energy efficient one for modern buildings that are hoping to achieve a level of energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. A building façade access design is important to allow for safe access to all parts of the building façade keeping the building operational and legally compliant with the correct systems.

There is more and more importance being attached to the art of glass fenestration because of the growing importance of energy efficient homes and buildings, reducing environmental impact and usage of electricity. Glass fenestration helps to achieve objectives like energy efficiency, light, ventilation, safety and comfort-related factors like sound insulation and thermal insulation.

It is estimated that an additional 10% value is added to a house price with double glazed large windows and doors. Buyers are more conscious of energy saving properties and natural light benefits.

Sliding doors have more glass, less frame and slimmer sightlines, don’t fold into the house or garden and are easier to operate. Folding doors open completely creating a seamless transition between inside and out. Sightlines are getting slimmer, fold panels getting larger, include a door for normal everyday use. Both options offer panoramic views, natural light and an outside in living experience, the best option would depend on the suitability for the property and finally personal preference.

Absolute adherence to all safety regulations set out by the industry governing bodies, NBR, SAGGA and SANS and international specifications ensures a product fit for use in residential and commercial construction projects.

All fenestration products experience an element of heat loss due to the following aspects;

Radiation heat energy is absorbed by the material and radiates to the cooler side.
Conduction heat energy moves through solid materials
Convection heat energy is transferred to the air between the materials
 Air leakage heat energy is transferred to air moving through seals of gaps

Structural glass is a term that refers to a frameless installation of glass where part of the structural load is taken by the glass itself rather than by a supporting frame. There are mainly three types of glass used for structural applications namely; annealed glass, heat-strengthened glass and toughened glass. Other types of glass used in construction are Sheet or flat glass, laminated glass, shatterproof glass, energy efficient glass, wired glass, tinted glass and toughened glass.

Glass is generally suitable as a structural support however, even minor irregularities on the surface of a glass panel can compromise its tensile strength, however, glass lamination has created another level of safety within glass construction.

Q One has agreements with top European brands, providing our clients with the most exclusive products at highly competitive rates. These include internationally recognised brands like panoramah! and Raynaers Aluminium as well as local South African brands like Wispeco, H Systems and HBS.

Q One welcomes clients to their local showroom and factory in Boksburg, Gauteng to witness the manufacturing process and specialised handling of large glass panels and  fenestration products by the highly skilled team. Completed works are available to view in a photo gallery on our website in the projects showcase section on completed residential and commercial projects.

A consultation is required or briefing from an architect or construction company to determine the exact scope of work for a comprehensive cost estimate, Q One Fenestration may request that you to supply the following details:

• Your name, surname and contact details
• Details on the design and type of glass fenestration system required
• An estimate of the size of the elements required
• The precise address for  installation

Any additional information you would like to provide can be included in the note section of the online contact form or can be sent to us via email at info@q1alu.co.za. Q one respects your privacy and will only use the information you supply for direct communication with you on your specific enquiry.

The Q One team is available Monday – Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, via phone 082 736 4447, email info@q1alu.co.za, or via our website contact form.

Yes, It is advisable to assign a registered architect to your project to abide by municipal laws and to apply their architectural design expertise, industry knowledge and in order to achieve construction success, especially if the vision is to include extensive and large glass fenestration in the design.

Fenestration as an architectural term for the arrangement of openings in a building which mainly includes but is not limited to windows and doors. It includes anything that allows passage from outside to inside with regards to quality, quantity or aesthetic characteristics. Windows, doors and skylights are all vital components of openings in the building envelope and may also include a curtain wall. Fenestration is a key element of architectural design that can create symmetry or connect the interior and exterior aesthetics through the size, shape and placement of the openings.