Sometimes the smallest component can be the most important which is why window actuators can be so vital to an overall building design. However, they are the kind of thing many people overlook – and if you do get this wrong you could be counting the cost for years to come.
What are they?
In their simplest terms a window actuator is the mechanism which opens and closes a window. They come in different forms and sizes for different areas of the house, so it’s important to understand how they work and which solution works best for which part of the house.
In one respect they allow you to open windows and other openings which are high up or in hard to reach areas. They could be used in areas where a manual mechanism would be considered impractical, expensive or intrusive and are often used for smoke ventilation.
Increasingly, in recent times, actuators are being used as part of an automated natural ventilation system. All sorts of new developments are incorporating increasingly sophisticated systems as part of the design such as an eye catching new development in Sleaford. These systems use remote sensors to allow a building to effectively breathe on its own. For example, if a thermostat alerts the system to the fact that the temperature or humidity is growing inside a room, windows can open letting in some much-needed fresh air. Equally, if a rain sensor identifies some bad weather moving in.
They’re useful as a way of improving air quality within a building and making it safer. As recent research has suggested, the air quality within our homes is deteriorating as airtight houses lead to the build-up of harmful chemicals and moisture. Poor quality air within the home can affect your health and wellbeing in ways you might not even have imagines.
Making your choice
The first step is to identify the different types of actuators and decide which one would be best for which situation. Chain actuators will be useful on high up openings where access is difficult, while wider windows may require twin chain actuators. Linear actuators, on the other hand offer a robust solution capable of opening heavy duty roof lights and domes. Folding arm actuators, meanwhile, often work well for side hung windows and doors. A good supplier will be able to stock a wide range of sizes and fits and work closely with you to decide which one would work best for which window.
Having that close relationship with a supplier can be useful in securing a high quality and appropriate product in the first instance and maintaining ongoing servicing and support options. This isn’t something you’d want to skimp on – although they may be small, window actuators play an incredibly important role in the overall design. A mistake here can lead to ripple effects that compromise the entire design of a building and how rooms look and feel.
