Balcony windows or their larger counterpart, French doors, flood interiors with plentiful supply of natural light and make for effective ventilation. Living rooms therefore appear more spacious and inviting while a comfortable indoor climate is achieved. With our extensive range of customisable options, at Neuffer secure access outside, stunning design, and user-friendly functionality can be relied on.
Factors to Consider when Purchasing Balcony Windows
Because they are often placed higher up in buildings, can feature generous glazed surfaces, and are exposed to the elements, balcony windows should have the following features:
- Secure, safe, and user-friendly opening mechanisms
- High strength and purpose-designed weather resistance
- Excellent thermal and sound insulation
- Beautiful customisable design
When deciding on a balcony window, the exact form it will take should also be thought about. The products can come in a range of made-to-measure dimensions and are typically installed as a fixed or openable glazed element next to an existing door that provides access outside.
If the window is manufactured with a hinged turn mechanism and in a large size though it can be classified as a French door that swings open and provides an exit out. A low threshold can then be added.
Safe & Innovative Opening Options
There are many available opening options for balcony windows installed next to doors. Some mechanisms, popular in the UK or US, include vertically sliding glass Georgian sashes or double hung products. While these sliding windows add traditional character and style, they can be heavy to lift and will not provide the market-leading security and insulation that more modern non-sliding European openings can.
Sliding Mechanisms vs Tilt and Turn
Although we can supply pivot and outward opening awning mechanisms as well as horizontal sliding windows, at Neuffer we primarily recommend tilt and turn options. The mechanism is equipped with high-quality German-manufactured metal fittings and is operated by turning the handle to different positions. When turned to 90° the window or door opens inwards, tilted ajar to around 15°, for example. This allows for a secure, steady, and subtle air supply. When the handle is then moved to 180°, the sash swings open, providing full views out and maximum ventilation.
Alongside their ability to supply differing amounts of air, tilt and turn openings are particularly suitable for balcony windows because they can be customised to maximise safety. To make it more difficult for children to operate the products, a push-button handle can be installed, for example, or a lockable one with a key. A sash opening limiter can then also be used, which controls how far out the window or French door can swing. In addition, the fittings can be adapted so that the product must be put into the tilt position before turning is possible. Tilt-only openings are then a further option to enhance safety for windows or French doors located particularly high up.
Ensure Lasting Weather Resistance
To protect balcony windows and French doors from the elements our products come with purpose-designed features. Anodised aluminium frames or external metal cladding attached to an uPVC or wooden base, are particularly strong, anti-rust, and won't corrode, for example. Beyond this, our different window models are equipped with multiple high-quality seals and professionally welded corners to provide excellent watertightness.
For windows or French doors installed in windier or coastal locations, special glazing is then also available. An extra thick tempered impact-resistant glass featuring multiple layers of invisible PVB foil inserted between panes means the product can withstand high pressures. The glazing also reduces the chance that the glass could break into sharp shards.
Tried & Tested Products with Quality Frames
To prove their impressive performance our balcony windows and French doors, such as the Eco Plano or Idealu aluminium clad wood models, have undergone multiple rounds of testing. Installed in a booth, the products are exposed to rapid cycles of positive and negative pressure as well as much water. Due to excellent results, we have received certificates from accreditation bodies like IFT Rosenheim and All Facades Ltd recognising storm-proof strength, water tightness, and impact resistance. For customers after a full sliding opening, our Hi-Finity and CP 155 aluminium sliding glass patio doors (link with anchor to profile) and complementary Reynaers CS 77 aluminium window are then Miami Dade, Florida certified (NOA No.18-1226.01 [13.08.25]), capable of withstanding hurricane conditions.
Excellent Insulation with Modern Glazing
Because balcony windows or French doors are often south facing and conduct heat through their generous glass surfaces, at Neuffer we offer quality glazing as a standard. Our basic glass features two panes, for example, while triple glazing, made with three panes, is also available. The thicker the glass and the greater the number of panes used to construct it, the more effective the window will be at preventing energy loss via conduction. The panes between the glass are filled with inert sealed argon gas which adds density and further improves thermal insulation.
