Integrated environmental, energy and cost life-cycle analysis of windows: Optimal selection of components

There is an increasing need for energy-efficient windows; however, these windows can have high embodied impacts and be costly. This has not been thoroughly analyzed the literature mainly focused on operational performance of windows. It important to wisely select optimal that minimize energy consumption, costs, environmental throughout their life cycle, considering influence window orientation climate data. article presents integrated cost life-cycle assessment (LCA) solutions, combining alternative glazing framing options. Optimal solutions were selected using a Pareto bi-objective optimization (costs vs. impacts) three different European regions, various orientations. The each component (glazing framing), as well properties (thermal transmittance solar factor) overall was studied. warm climates highlight low factor windows, while cold they thermal value. with greatest total (mainly operational). depend very great extent values factors. analysis shows initial investment in impact cost, even when lifespan 30 years considered. provides insights into recommendations design by addressing climatic conditions