Windows with Unusual Shapes

Windows in the shape of a circle, semicircle, triangle, or trapezoid differ in many ways from standard rectangular and square joinery. How much do unusual windows cost? How long does it take to produce them? Are they energy-efficient? We answer the most frequently asked questions regarding non-standard windows.

Many doubts related to windows with unusual shapes were clarified in our first article on windows with non-standard shapes. We addressed, among other things, the technological limitations in their production, as well as the way they are manufactured and function. In this text, we will focus on their cost, production time, thermal insulation, and sizes. See what our specialists have to say about unusual windows.

Are Windows with Unusual Shapes More Expensive Than Standard Windows? 

Unfortunately, it is difficult to answer this question unequivocally, as there is no fixed surcharge for producing a window in an unusual shape. One thing is certain – a triangular, circular, or arched window will be more expensive than a rectangular or square one in a typical size. How much exactly? This can be determined during a quotation, which can be prepared by a consultant at a sales showroom using a calculation program.The price of an unusual window depends primarily on its dimensions, shape, and the time-consuming nature of its production. The costs of the windows may also increase due to the necessity of using specific window fittings, which is dictated by the unconventional geometry of the window.

How Long Is the Production Lead Time for an Unusually Shaped Window? 

The production period for windows with unusual shapes is always longer – roughly one to two weeks more than for standard windows.This difference results from the additional tasks that must be carried out during their production, as well as a different technological process than that used for standard window joinery. Rectangular and square windows are manufactured on automated production lines, where the process is largely automated. For non-standard shapes, a different form of production and work character is applied – more tasks are performed by people rather than machines. Precise information on the delivery time for a specific window or unusually shaped windows can be obtained from customer advisors.

Do Non-Standard Shaped Windows Meet Current Thermal Insulation Standards? 

The unusual windows offered by OKNOPLAST – regardless of their size and geometry – are as energy-efficient and airtight as square and rectangular windows. The thermal insulation of a window is not related to its shape, but solely to the components used.In our triangular, trapezoidal, or arched windows, we use the same window profiles and glazing units as in rectangular windows. They provide an adequate level of protection against heat loss, so when you order an unusual window from us, you can be sure that it will be as energy-efficient and airtight as standard windows.

Do uPVC Windows with Fancy Shapes Have Steel Reinforcements in Their Profiles? 

The larger the glazing area you want to use in windows, the more reinforced the window profiles should be. Additional steel reinforcement is most often used – at OKNOPLAST it is standardly bent several times, which increases its durability. Such reinforced window profiles serve as the base for both rectangular and square windows, as well as so-called oblique windows, meaning triangular and trapezoidal windows.They can have large glazing dimensions because – due to the reinforcement – their profiles are more resistant to loading. The situation is somewhat different with windows featuring an arched top, circular, or semicircular windows. Their profiles are first bent, so they cannot be equipped with standard steel reinforcement as in other windows. Most manufacturers completely forgo steel reinforcements in elements bent into an arch. OKNOPLAST, as one of the few companies, uses a method in unusual arched windows that reinforces them with steel. Thanks to this, we do not have to worry about the structural integrity of windows even in the most elaborate shapes.

How Do You Know What Sizes Unusually Shaped Windows Can Be? 

Whether a window can be produced in a given size will be determined by our consultants at the sales showroom. They have not only experience but also two important tools – a calculation system that informs them of dimensional limitations during the quotation process, and technical catalogs with detailed data regarding bending into an arch and the possibility of trimming profiles.The size of a circular, semicircular, or arched window also depends on the depth of the profile’s casing. The greater the casing depth, the larger the bending diameter of the profile. What does that mean exactly? When choosing warm, but “deep” window profiles, you can order a larger circular or arched window. Conversely, if you opt for slimmer windows, you will obtain smaller windows in these shapes. If you wish to order an unusual window in a specific size, it is best to consult our dealers, who will help you select the appropriate window system.