When it comes to energy-efficient windows, most people think of glass. But there’s another element that plays a critical role in a window’s thermal performance — the frame.
While aluminium remains one of the most popular choices for modern window systems thanks to its strength, durability and design flexibility, it’s also a highly conductive material.
That means without intervention, aluminium frames can act as thermal bridges — transferring heat and cold directly into or out of your home.
Thermally broken frames solve this.
What is a Thermally Broken Frame?
A thermally broken frame is an advanced window or door system designed to interrupt the path of heat flow through the aluminium. It’s achieved by inserting a low-conductivity barrier — typically a polyamide strip — between the inner and outer sections of the aluminium frame. This barrier creates a “break” in the thermal bridge.
Rather than allowing external heat to pass through the metal into the interior, or internal warmth to escape during winter, the break slows this transfer significantly.
The result? A window system that performs far better in terms of insulation — without compromising on strength or aesthetics.
The Problem with Standard Aluminium Frames
Standard (non-broken) aluminium frames provide minimal resistance to conductive heat flow. In practical terms:
- In summer, external heat can radiate through the frame, warming internal surfaces even with double-glazed glass
- In winter, the same frame can rapidly conduct warmth out of the home, reducing the effectiveness of heating systems
This undermines the performance of even the most advanced glazing — making the entire system less efficient overall.
Thermal breaks address this vulnerability at the structural level.
Performance Benefits
Thermally broken frames are now considered a “game-changer” for energy-efficient construction, helping reduce unwanted thermal bridging across the building envelope (Eco Smart Designs).
Key advantages include:
- Improved insulation — lowers both heat gain and heat loss
- Condensation control — internal surfaces remain closer to room temperature, reducing the risk of internal moisture
- Better energy ratings — helps meet stricter efficiency benchmarks, including future 7-star targets
- Increased comfort — stabilises internal temperatures year-round, reducing hot and cold spots
Why Thermally Broken Frames Matter in WA
WA homes are exposed to extreme variations in temperature — with high summer heat, coastal humidity and cool inland winters. As the building industry moves toward higher energy performance requirements, thermally broken frames are becoming an essential part of future-ready window systems.
In fact, WA’s construction sector is already adapting to the shift toward stricter thermal regulations, with thermally broken systems helping builders and architects meet updated 7-star energy efficiency requirements (Build Australia). For new homes and renovations alike, integrating this technology supports compliance without sacrificing visual appeal.
At Luxwin, our thermally broken aluminium systems combine sleek architectural form with next-generation performance. Looking to future-proof your build? Get in touch with our team today to integrate glazing that works as hard as it looks.