- Fast, clean and quiet
- Window replacement
Leaky windows? Out they go!
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- Illustration: Marcial Rodrigo Paulete
This article is part of the “Reframe Renovation” topic series.
Find more interesting information on this topic here.
There are around 1 billion outdated windows in Europe’s cities, according to a 2021 estimate by window association EuroWindoor. Ripe for replacement, you might well think. But paradoxically, the refurbishment rate has barely risen over the last five years – despite state subsidy programmes in many countries. Why is that? Many property owners keep postponing this important task. They explain their reticence with a range of different concerns that we keep hearing at Finstral as well. Such as, how can I refurbish over a thousand windows? In a building that’s being used? How do I manage a construction site and temporary relocation for months, with all the expense, effort and disruption that entails? And yes, these are all valid concerns – but only if you refurbish using conventional methods. With Finstral’s minimally invasive installation process, windows are quick to replace, with no noise, no dirt, no scaffolding. Let us show you how.
Fast, clean and quiet...that's how minimally invasive installation works without a construction site
Due for a window replacement? No problem! · Apartment block or house – with our minimally invasive methods we replace your old wooden, aluminium or uPVC windows quickly and easily. All it takes is two installers and a van. 
Window refurbishment without scaffolding · Once you tally the add-on costs for a window replacement using the usual refurbishment methods – including scaffolding, dismantling, rent reduction and so on – it can soon amount to 20–50% of the construction costs. We ensure effective installation, with no scaffolding. Our experts bring the window elements directly to the installation site, and in most cases, all they need is a lift to get the windows where they need to go. 
Too good to be true? · No dust, no dirt, no masonry or painting works. That’s how window replacement works with our innovative installation methods. The occupants don’t have to move out during the building work. The furniture is simply moved to one side, there’s no need for extensive covers or other protection. 
Softly, softly · The advantages of Finstral installation are obvious. Because of our minimally invasive method, our work is resource-efficient, fast – and low on noise. We install without unnecessary disruption or even suspension of operations in the property, be it apartment, office or hospital. 
Minimally invasive – surgical, even · In an operation, a surgeon works to minimise injury to the tissue; when we replace a window, we don’t mess with the masonry. Because that means dirt, noise, time and money. We leave the built-in part of the old window right were it is. And we simply adapt it for the new window. That’s what you call sustainability. 
Fast? Next to no time · For slide-in installation or fitting to a mounting frame we only need one hour per window, for slide-on installation less than two. The phrase “in next to no time” was invented for this. 
We conserve resources · After the replacement, we take the old window away and ensure it’s professionally broken down into its recyclable components. We work with recycling partners and we also are currently building our own window recycling plant near Verona. By the way, did you know that Finstral uPVC window frames are 100-percent recyclable? 
Why is replacement a good idea? · Clever ventilation · If you have windows with much better insulation all of a sudden, don’t you have to worry about mould? It’s a question we get a lot. And our answer is: no, not if you ventilate properly. Upon request we can even integrate a ventilation system directly into the window frame. 
As slim as it gets · Finstral window frames are among the slimmest in their category – and that goes for older buildings and refurbishments as well. Because we can almost always use the existing frame, the size of the glass plane stays the same as well. The new windows let just as much light in as before. For the eye and ear · Perfectly insulated windows save energy and considerably reduce running costs. And when it comes to the street noise outside, even in the standard configuration, our windows protect against noise of up to 32 dB – and with soundproof glazing, up to 47 dB. So Finstral window replacement has numerous benefits. 
Certification of our installation · Only expert installation ensures optimum sealing, outstanding thermal insulation and lasting user comfort. That’s why we have our building connections and workmanship for window replacements independently tested and certified by the Institut für Fenstertechnik (ift) in Rosenheim.
Comments on window replacement.
“My biggest concern? For one, whether the Residents’ Association will approve the new windows. And then of course the renovation itself – will I be able to stay in my apartment? Everything was explained to me step by step in the planning phase. The old windows offered little thermal protection and were difficult to operate. The tilt-and-turn window is easier to operate, it is noticeably warmer, there’s less maintenance – and with the glazed balcony door, I finally have more daylight in my apartment.” --Linda de Nie, apartment owner, Hoofddorp, Netherlands
“The greatest challenge in refurbishing an occupied building is the coordination – from planners and site managers to owners and public authorities. For our last project with Finstral that meant getting agreement from 136 tenants. All processes have to be precisely planned to keep disruption to the residents’ lives to a minimum.” -- Gianfranco Serpelloni, Chairman of Serpelloni S.p.A., a construction company based in Villafranca di Verona, Italy. 
“Without slide-in installation, the construction would have taken three to four times longer – with significant restrictions for the tenants. The two-and-a-half-week installation of 53 double-sash composite windows with integrated Venetian blinds ran exactly to schedule, with no follow-up required, and with a 100% approval rate. That’s pretty rare in big projects. I was really impressed by the refurbishment methods they used.” -- Florian Veh from the architectural practice Gräßel, discussing a commercial building project in the centre of Erlangen, Germany. 
“A refurbishment isn’t an outlay, it’s an investment. Measures that affect the building envelope, technology and windows ensure a better energy footprint and pay off quicker.” -- Manuel Castoldi, expert in energy-related refurbishment, CEO of Termoisover-ind, and Chairman of the Italian network Rete IRENE, which promotes a sustainable refurbishment culture. For the last 20 years he has been committed to energy efficiency and reducing primary energy demand in residential buildings.
Experience variety first-hand – at our Finstral Studio.
Do you just want to inspect, touch and try out our products? At the Finstral Studio, you will find a wide range of windows, doors and glass walls. Along with expert answers to your questions.
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