Application of the factor method to the service life prediction of window frames

Abstract

Window frames present an important role in the energy efficiency of the buildings. The deterioration of window frames strongly influences their water and air tightness, thus comprising the buildings performance. In this sense, the service life of window frames should be carefully analysed, identifying the factors that influence the deterioration of these components, to improve their durability over the buildings’ life cycle. In this study, the service life of window frames is estimated through the application of the factor method. For this purpose, a sample of 173 aluminium and 41 wooden window frames are analysed, collected through a visual inspection campaign, in order to characterise these elements and their state of degradation. In this study, three scenarios are proposed for the quantification of the durability factors, intending to obtain an optimised model for the service life prediction of window frames. Using the optimised scenario, an estimated service life ranging between 37 and 41 years was obtained for aluminium frames, while an estimated service life around 28 years was obtained for wooden frames. The results obtained are consistent with similar studies and the empirical knowledge related with the durability and service life of window frames.