Windows are an essential factor in assuring pleasant indoor conditions. In cold climates, poorly insulated windows will cause relatively cold surfaces at the facade and will require active heating near the windows to compensate for cold air drops, draughts and “cold radiation” caused by the cold surfaces. Highly insulated windows, on the other hand, will make an active contribution to increasing the level of comfort. High performance windows, specifically developed to meet the requirements of Passive Houses, are offered by an increasing number of manufactureres across the globe. A list of PHI Certified Passive House windows can be found here.

Passive House windows - requirements
Types of glazing and their specific values
Required U-values for Passive House windows

Passive House windows allow for major energy savings and offer a superior level of comfort.

Thermal protection in windows refers to their ability to reduce heat transfer, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and improving energy efficiency. On the other hand, thermal bridging occurs when heat bypasses insulation through highly conductive materials, such as poorly insulated edges, leading to energy loss and condensation risks. Minimizing thermal bridging and ensuring airtight installation become essential factors. Below we list how high-performance glazing, insulated frames, spacers and advanced frame materials ensure the better performance and comfort.

Thermal bridges of transparent components – Installation thermal bridges
Window installation (read also in Spanish )
Simplified calculation for window installations
Improving the glazing
Insulating window frames
Installation-based thermal bridges Ψinstall

Tool: Window Installation Thermal Bridges Catalogue
Fact sheet: Is it problematic if the window is better than the wall
Fact sheet: Extending Wall Insulation Over Window Frames – But What About Aluminium
Webinar: Do-It-Yourself energy efficiency measures

Thermal comfort is a defining living quality. The cold air pockets, drafts, uneven temperatures, and heat losses can all influence the comfort. With PHPP circulation, these factors can be calculated and controlled, ensuring balanced air circulation and consistently meeting the comfort standards.

Adapted window qualities
Fact sheet: Comfort criteria for windows in PHPP 10
Tool: Window tool
Tool: Hygiene tool

Global growth in energy-efficient construction is driving demand for certified, high-performance windows.We certify energy-efficient components to international standards, ensuring they meet the criteria for energy performance, comfort, and hygiene.

Certification criteria for Passive House Transparent Building Components
Criteria: Transparent Building Components and Opening Elements in the Building Envelope
PHI window certification: previous success and new climate zones

Home ventilation
Passive House - 6 reasons why you still need opening windows

Insulating roller shutter boxes
Optimization of roller shutters and exterior blinds
Tool: Reduction factor for shading

Replacement of windows in step-by-step refurbishments of existing buildings
Windows in refurbishments
Windows in a step-by-step retrofit
Fact sheet: Windows in step-by-step retrofits - windows first, then insulation
Fact sheet:Windows in step-by-step modernisations – First the thermal insulation, then the windows

Certified Passive House Components
Passive House buildings in different climates
The next generation of Passive House windows
Passive House windows completely redesigned