

Architects today are making generous use of windows, which enhance the appearance of buildings. However, the profiles used for these windows need to address important issues in the region such as energy-efficiency, corrosion-resistance, watertightness, functionality and aesthetics, says Mottie Al-Samahiji, director of Universal Windows (UW), a Bahrain-based window fabricator of uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) windows.
Taking these aspects into consideration and after a thorough study on which material would be most suitable for the region, Universal Windows selected uPVC, with Veka of Germany as its partner, explains Al-Samahiji.
Through its tie-up with Veka, one of the leading profile suppliers worldwide, UW has access to the German company’s know-how accumulated over its 34 years of existence in the manufacture of synthetic window and door systems and its international experience.
Another deciding factor was Universal Windows’ uncompromising commitment towards the environment – not only in the selection of raw materials and the manufacturing process but also in the development of products, he adds. The company also wanted to offer customers a good alternative to aluminium windows, which are commonly used in the region.
Universal Windows factory was set up in 2000 and is equipped with sophisticated machinery imported from Germany.
Commenting on the properties of uPVC which make it a highly suitable material, he says: “Thermoplastic uPVC has distinguished itself as an ideal building material component. Besides its ecological benefits, this material offers good thermal insulation and contributes to energy conservation. Research conducted in Kuwait has shown that uPVC profiles in windows help cut down the energy consumption in buildings by up to 30 per cent.
“Being weather-resistant, virtually inflammable, durable and corrosion-resistant, uPVC is suitable for use in extreme climatic conditions. uPVC remains virtually unaffected by harsh marine environments of the Gulf. In addition, it is weatherproof and waterproof.”
As far as aesthetics is concerned, the material offers immense flexibility in shape and form. Semicircular arches and circular shapes, which are so popular in the Arab world, can easily be achieved with uPVC windows that blend in perfectly with the architecture and highlight the individuality of each single house or villa, he says.
uPVC windows fabricated by Universal Windows provide high-quality solutions to meet the requirements set by the region’s high temperature, wind speed and the ubiquitous fine sand, he says.
“The Veka Softline profile system, which we use, can withstand these conditions. Our insulated glass panels protect against heat and noise. The profile frames enhance the heat and sound insulation with their ingenious multi-chamber system, providing ultimate protection by keeping the natural forces at bay,” Al-Samahiji points out. “In fact, mega projects in Dubai have specified Veka uPVC systems as they provide households with numerous benefits.”
Softline boasts a number of distinctive features:
The thick-walled and galvanised steel-reinforced multi-chamber profiles, combined with a perimetric multiple locking system, offer enhanced protection against burglary. The internal glazing bead prevents the windows from being levered out.
“In terms of security, we can offer a wide range of solutions to the architect or building owner,” says Al-Samahiji. “The standard features of Veka proprietary windows embody a high degree of safety. This can be enhanced by fitting appropriate hardware, glass and security handles designed in accordance with the guidelines laid down for burglar-deterrent windows.”
“Universal Windows uses Veka profiles along with locking systems from Winkhaus of Germany, which offer an extremely high degree of security with six locks extending from corner to corner of the window,” he adds.
The flexible profile also enables the incorporation of various opening mechanisms. From tilt-and-turn to sliding sash and fixed-glazed windows – a lot of possibilities can be fabricated.
Veka proprietary windows offer good thermal insulation properties. “Universal Windows offers double-glazed windows comprising 6 mm of glass for the inner and outer panes with 12 mm of air space in between, which we have found to be the optimum width for double-glazing units,” he points out.
In addition, the Veka system provides the right degree of sound insulation.
Besides increasing the comfort and safety of the interior space, the windows offer other practical advantages: their smooth, non-porous surfaces, which prevent dirt accumulation, are easy to clean.
“When cleaned regularly with a mild, environment-friendly detergent, the windows remain clean and attractive for years. The simple cleaning and oiling of the fittings once a year and a check of the windows’ water drainage slots ensures permanent fully-functioning, easy-to-handle windows,” he says.
Veka’s profiles are extruded from a special tropical mix compound, which ensures colour-fastness and makes them highly suitable for applications in the harsh desert and coastal climatic conditions of the Middle East and Africa. This compound has been, and is being used in these regions over the past several years, he adds.
Windows using the Veka system can be used in high-rise buildings of varying height classification and stress duty groups. The rebate and centre seal window systems are designed for building heights of up to 100 m.
Manufactured in accordance with current European RAL quality standards, Veka’s windows and doors comply with the relevant DIN standards, such as DIN 18055, and are suitable for stress groups A to C.
Well-dimensioned reinforcing chambers, sturdy wall thickness and additional studs prevent deformation of the profiles, while the galvanised steel reinforcement within the chambers provides form stability and security. Veka window systems have been thoroughly tested by reputed testing institutions worldwide and have received certificates of approval, he points out.
Universal Windows enhances the high quality of the product by offering several other options in window feature design – glass-dividing Georgian bars or externally-clad glazing bars, suitable couplings, decorative profiles, complementary profiles and connection profiles. The system can also incorporate roll-up or fixed fly screens.
“Windows are the essential factor in determining the overall appearance of a house, both externally and internally, giving it a distinctive look”, concludes Al-Samahiji.
Universal Windows has specialised in this field and can offer a wide range of products to satisfy both architects and building owners. The company, which has supplied to a number of multi-storey buildings and villa projects, is currently quoting for a 54-villa housing compound as well as a hospital development in Bahrain.