Aluminium Fixed Windows

Aluminium Fixed Windows

Custom Aluminium Fixed Windows for Australian Homes and Commercial Buildings

Aluminium fixed windows provide natural light, uninterrupted views and clean architectural lines without an opening sash.

Also known as fixed-pane windows, non-opening windows or picture windows, they can be manufactured as individual glazed panels or combined with awning, sliding and other operable windows to create larger custom configurations.

EZ Windows supplies custom aluminium fixed windows for:

  • New homes
  • Renovations
  • Window-replacement projects
  • Luxury residences
  • Townhouses
  • Apartments
  • Volume-building developments
  • Schools and childcare centres
  • Government facilities
  • Offices and commercial buildings

Fixed windows can be manufactured in custom sizes with single glazing, double glazing, thermal-performance framing, privacy glass, tinted glass and a broad range of architectural powder-coat finishes.

Important: Product selection, dimensions, glass, structural performance, installation and compliance must suit the specific project. EZ Windows manufactures or supplies products according to approved information and the agreed scope.

What Is an Aluminium Fixed Window?

An aluminium fixed window contains glass secured permanently within an aluminium frame.

Unlike an awning, sliding or casement window, it has no operable sash and cannot be opened for ventilation.

The primary purposes of a fixed window are to provide:

  • Natural light
  • External views
  • Architectural glazing
  • Visual connection
  • Façade articulation
  • Weather protection
  • A glazed panel within a larger window combination

Because it has no operating hardware, hinges, rollers or opening sash, a fixed window can often achieve cleaner framing and a larger uninterrupted glass area than an operable window of a comparable overall size.

What Is a Picture Window?

A picture window is generally a large fixed window designed to frame an external view in the same way that a picture frame surrounds an image.

Picture windows are commonly positioned to overlook:

  • Gardens
  • Courtyards
  • Landscapes
  • Coastal views
  • City skylines
  • Swimming pools
  • Architectural features
  • Internal atriums

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, not every fixed window is necessarily intended as a picture window. Small fixed panels, highlights and sidelights are also fixed windows.

Benefits of Aluminium Fixed Windows

Potential advantages include:

  • Large uninterrupted views
  • Maximum natural light
  • Clean architectural appearance
  • Slim aluminium framing
  • No projecting sash
  • No operating hardware
  • Compatibility with large glazed areas
  • Custom shapes and sizes
  • Single- and double-glazing options
  • Strong weather-sealing potential
  • Integration with operable windows
  • Extensive powder-coat colour options
  • Relatively low operational maintenance

The actual performance depends on the selected frame, glass, window size, seals and installation.

Uninterrupted Views

Fixed windows are often chosen where the view is more important than ventilation.

Without an operable sash, the design can reduce visible framing and hardware within the opening.

This can make fixed glazing suitable for:

  • Living rooms
  • Dining rooms
  • Stairwells
  • Double-height spaces
  • Feature façades
  • Entry areas
  • Offices
  • Commercial frontages

The size and proportion should be designed around the view, room and complete building façade.

Natural Light

Fixed windows can introduce substantial daylight into internal spaces.

They may be used:

  • At standard window height
  • From floor to ceiling
  • As high-level glazing
  • Beside doors
  • Above doors
  • Within stairwells
  • Across double-height voids
  • In narrow or irregular wall areas

Window orientation, glass selection and external shading should be considered to manage heat gain, heat loss, glare and privacy.

Weather Performance

Because fixed windows contain no operable sash, they eliminate the joints, moving hardware and opening seals associated with operable windows.

This can support strong air and water resistance when the complete window is appropriately designed, manufactured and installed.

Performance still depends on:

  • Frame system
  • Glass
  • Glazing method
  • Window size
  • Drainage
  • Perimeter seals
  • Flashings
  • Installation
  • Building exposure

A fixed window should not be assumed to achieve any particular performance without reference to the selected system and project requirements.

Where Are Aluminium Fixed Windows Used?

Fixed Windows for Living Rooms

Living areas often use fixed windows to maximise:

  • Garden views
  • Natural light
  • Connection with outdoor spaces
  • Architectural impact
  • Large areas of glazing

Operable windows or doors can be positioned elsewhere in the room to provide the required ventilation.

Fixed Windows for Bedrooms

Fixed glazing may be included in bedroom window combinations, but a completely fixed window provides no ventilation or opening access.

The complete room design may need to address:

  • Natural ventilation
  • Emergency egress
  • Privacy
  • Fall protection
  • Energy efficiency
  • Acoustic requirements
  • Window furnishings

The responsible designer must ensure the overall bedroom-window arrangement satisfies applicable requirements.

Fixed Kitchen Windows

A fixed window can be positioned above a kitchen bench or splashback where views and daylight are desired without an opening sash or operating handle.

Consider:

  • External cleaning
  • Privacy
  • Glare
  • Orientation
  • Benchtop height
  • Splashback detailing
  • Glass selection

Where kitchen ventilation is required, it should be provided through another suitable window or mechanical system.

Fixed Bathroom Windows

Fixed windows can bring natural light into bathrooms and may be combined with:

  • Obscure glass
  • Frosted or translucent glass
  • Tinted glass
  • Laminated privacy glass
  • High-level positioning

Because the window cannot open, the bathroom may require another source of natural or mechanical ventilation.

Fixed Stairwell Windows

Stairwells frequently use fixed windows to introduce daylight into the centre or side of a home.

Relevant considerations can include:

  • Human-impact glazing
  • Fall risk
  • Cleaning access
  • Glare
  • Privacy
  • Window height
  • Installation access

Large stairwell glazing should be coordinated early because access may be difficult after construction.

Floor-to-Ceiling Fixed Windows

Floor-to-ceiling glazing can provide dramatic views and strong architectural impact.

It may also introduce additional requirements involving:

  • Safety glazing
  • Human impact
  • Wind pressure
  • Glass thickness
  • Structural support
  • Energy performance
  • Privacy
  • Fall protection
  • Internal comfort
  • Window furnishings

Large areas of glass should be considered as part of the complete façade and building-performance strategy.

Commercial Aluminium Fixed Windows

Commercial fixed windows may be incorporated into:

  • Office façades
  • Retail premises
  • Schools
  • Medical facilities
  • Community buildings
  • Government projects
  • Apartment developments
  • Mixed-use buildings

Commercial projects may require specialised aluminium framing and glazing systems to address larger sizes, higher wind pressures or project-specific performance criteria.

The specification should clearly identify:

  • Framing system
  • Dimensions
  • Glass
  • Finish
  • Structural requirements
  • Energy requirements
  • Acoustic requirements
  • Installation scope

Aluminium Fixed Window Configurations

Fixed windows can be manufactured in many arrangements.

Common configurations include:

  • Single fixed pane
  • Multiple fixed panes
  • Floor-to-ceiling fixed glazing
  • Fixed highlight
  • Fixed sidelight
  • Fixed window above an awning window
  • Fixed window beside a sliding window
  • Fixed panels surrounding a door
  • Large picture window
  • Corner glazing
  • Raked or shaped glazing

Availability depends on the selected framing system and project requirements.

Fixed Window with an Awning Window

A fixed panel can be combined with an aluminium awning sash to provide both views and ventilation.

Possible arrangements include:

  • Awning sash above fixed glass
  • Awning sash below fixed glass
  • Awning sash beside fixed glass
  • Fixed central panel with awning sashes at each side

Read our complete Aluminium Awning Windows Guide.

Fixed Window with a Sliding Window

A fixed panel can be combined with a sliding sash where space-efficient ventilation is required.

The fixed section may be larger than the opening panel to preserve a broad view while providing practical ventilation.

Read our complete Aluminium Sliding Windows Guide.

Fixed Windows Beside Doors

Fixed sidelights can be installed beside:

  • Hinged doors
  • Entry doors
  • Sliding doors
  • Stacker doors
  • Bifold doors

A fixed highlight may also be positioned above a door.

These configurations can increase daylight and create a larger, more impressive architectural opening.

Glass near doors and circulation areas must be appropriately selected for its location.

Custom Shapes and Raked Fixed Windows

Because a fixed window does not require an operating sash, it may accommodate shapes that are impractical for an operable window.

Possible designs include:

  • Triangular windows
  • Trapezoidal windows
  • Raked windows
  • Narrow vertical windows
  • Wide horizontal windows
  • Curved or arched forms where available
  • Other project-specific geometry

Complex shapes require clear dimensions, angles, templates or approved drawings.

Custom Aluminium Fixed Window Sizes

Aluminium fixed windows can be custom manufactured, subject to practical and technical limitations.

Maximum size may be affected by:

  • Glass type
  • Glass thickness
  • Glass area
  • Wind pressure
  • Building height
  • Frame system
  • Mullion requirements
  • Deflection
  • Glass availability
  • Transport
  • Site access
  • Lifting requirements
  • Installation method

There is no single universal maximum size applying to every fixed window.

Large windows should be reviewed individually.

When Does a Fixed Window Need Mullions?

A large opening may need to be divided by vertical or horizontal framing members.

Mullions or transoms may be required because of:

  • Frame-system limitations
  • Glass-size limitations
  • Wind pressure
  • Structural requirements
  • Transport
  • Installation
  • Architectural design

Dividing a window can improve practicality, but it also changes the sightlines and view. This should be resolved during design rather than after the opening has been constructed.

Large Fixed Windows and Site Access

Before approving an oversized fixed window, consider:

  • Can the glass be manufactured?
  • Can it be transported safely?
  • Can it enter the building or site?
  • Is crane or vacuum-lifting equipment required?
  • Is scaffolding necessary?
  • Can it be glazed from the required side?
  • Can damaged glass be replaced later?
  • Is there suitable storage before installation?

A pane that can be drawn or manufactured may still be difficult to transport and install.

How Are Fixed Windows Measured?

Quotations generally require:

  • Overall width
  • Overall height
  • Configuration
  • Frame system
  • Glass
  • Colour
  • Quantity

Final manufacturing dimensions may also need to account for:

  • Structural opening
  • Installation clearance
  • Head, sill and jamb details
  • Flashings
  • Cladding
  • Masonry
  • Internal reveals
  • Building tolerances
  • Installation method

The agreed project process should identify who measures and who approves the final dimensions.

Read our How to Measure Aluminium Windows Guide.

Replacement Aluminium Fixed Windows

Fixed aluminium windows can replace existing timber, steel or aluminium windows.

Replacement work may involve:

  • Removing the existing window
  • Removing and replacing glass
  • Preparing the opening
  • New flashings
  • Waterproofing
  • External trims
  • Internal reveals
  • Sealants
  • Painting or making good
  • Access equipment
  • Disposal

The condition of surrounding walls and finishes may only become fully visible after the original window has been removed.

Read our Aluminium Window Replacement Guide.

Double-Glazed Aluminium Fixed Windows

Fixed aluminium windows can be manufactured with suitable double-glazed units.

Double glazing can contribute to improved:

  • Thermal performance
  • Acoustic performance
  • Internal comfort
  • Condensation management
  • Energy efficiency

The outcome depends on the complete frame, glass, spacer, seals, installation and building design.

A large double-glazed unit can be extremely heavy. Handling, frame capacity, structural support and installation access must be considered.

Read our Double-Glazed Aluminium Windows and Doors Guide.

Thermally Broken Fixed Windows

A thermally broken aluminium frame includes a lower-conductivity barrier separating relevant internal and external aluminium sections.

Thermally broken fixed windows may be appropriate for:

  • High-performance homes
  • Cooler climates
  • Large glazed façades
  • Luxury residences
  • Apartments
  • Commercial buildings
  • Projects with demanding energy targets

The required whole-window performance should be determined through the project’s energy assessment.

Read our Thermally Broken Aluminium Windows Guide.

Energy Performance

Large fixed windows can substantially affect a building’s energy performance.

Relevant factors include:

  • Whole-window U-value
  • Solar heat gain coefficient
  • Frame system
  • Glass type
  • Window area
  • Orientation
  • External shading
  • Internal window furnishings
  • Climate zone
  • Installation
  • Complete wall construction

A large area of glass can provide valuable winter solar gain in one situation while contributing to unwanted summer heat in another.

Window size, orientation and glazing should therefore be considered together.

Acoustic Fixed Windows

Fixed windows can be incorporated into acoustic designs.

Because they do not open, they may offer advantages where controlling air gaps is important. However, the actual performance depends on:

  • Glass type
  • Glass thickness
  • Laminated glass
  • Double-glazing configuration
  • Frame system
  • Glazing seals
  • Perimeter installation
  • Surrounding walls
  • Roof and other building elements

Where a project has a defined acoustic target, the required complete construction should be determined by an appropriately qualified acoustic consultant.

Glass Options for Fixed Windows

Available glass selections may include:

  • Clear glass
  • Tinted glass
  • Toughened safety glass
  • Laminated glass
  • Obscure glass
  • Low-emissivity glass
  • Single glazing
  • Double glazing
  • Acoustic glass
  • Other project-specific performance glass

Glass selection depends on:

  • Window dimensions
  • Wind pressure
  • Human-impact location
  • Fall risk
  • Energy requirements
  • Acoustic requirements
  • Privacy
  • Security
  • Architectural appearance

Privacy Glass

Privacy can be achieved through:

  • Obscure glass
  • Translucent glass
  • Tinted glass
  • Laminated interlayers
  • Applied treatments where suitable
  • External screens
  • Landscaping
  • Window positioning

Privacy glass should be reviewed under both daytime and night-time lighting conditions. Some tinted or reflective products may provide less privacy when internal lighting is brighter than external lighting.

Powder-Coat Colours and Finishes

Aluminium fixed-window frames can be finished in a broad range of powder-coated colours.

The final selection should identify the approved:

  • Colour name
  • Colour code
  • Powder manufacturer
  • Product range
  • Gloss level or texture
  • Coating system

The selected coating system should suit the environmental exposure and applicable warranty conditions.

Fixed Windows with Aluminium Window Shrouds

Fixed windows are particularly well suited to architectural window shrouds because no sash needs to project into the surround.

A shroud can create:

  • Greater façade depth
  • Stronger shadow
  • Window emphasis
  • A picture-frame appearance
  • Repetition across a larger façade
  • Contrast with surrounding cladding

The window and shroud design should still coordinate:

  • Internal clearance
  • Window drainage
  • Fixing lugs
  • Flashings
  • Shroud fixings
  • Cladding
  • Waterproofing
  • Building tolerances

Read our complete Aluminium Window Shrouds Guide.

Fixed Windows vs Awning Windows

Fixed Windows

  • Do not open
  • Maximise uninterrupted views
  • Contain no opening hardware
  • Can suit larger glass areas
  • Provide no natural ventilation

Awning Windows

  • Open outward from the bottom
  • Provide adjustable ventilation
  • Require external clearance
  • Include operating hardware
  • Can accommodate internal flyscreens

Many projects combine the two styles in one frame.

Fixed Windows vs Sliding Windows

Fixed Windows

  • Remain permanently closed
  • Provide clear sightlines
  • Require no rollers or tracks
  • Offer no ventilation

Sliding Windows

  • Open horizontally
  • Provide adjustable ventilation
  • Do not project outward
  • Include tracks, rollers and locking hardware

The correct choice depends on whether ventilation or an uninterrupted view is the higher priority.

Advantages and Limitations

Potential Advantages

  • Maximum views and daylight
  • Clean architectural appearance
  • No operating hardware
  • No outward projection
  • Strong sealing potential
  • Large glazing possibilities
  • Custom shapes
  • Integration with operable windows
  • Relatively low operational maintenance

Potential Limitations

  • No natural ventilation
  • No opening access
  • External cleaning may be difficult
  • Large glass can be heavy
  • Oversized units may require lifting equipment
  • Large glass areas can affect heat gain and heat loss
  • Window replacement may require specialised access

Cleaning and Maintenance

Fixed windows have no rollers, hinges or winders, but they still require maintenance.

General care may include:

  • Cleaning glass
  • Washing frames with suitable mild products
  • Keeping drainage openings clear
  • Inspecting perimeter sealants
  • Checking for glass or frame damage
  • Avoiding abrasive cleaners
  • Avoiding unsuitable harsh chemicals
  • Maintaining surrounding flashings and building finishes

Upper-level or inaccessible glazing may require professional cleaning equipment and suitable safety controls.

How Much Do Aluminium Fixed Windows Cost?

Price depends on:

  • Width and height
  • Frame system
  • Number of panes
  • Mullions and transoms
  • Glass type
  • Glass thickness
  • Single or double glazing
  • Thermal requirements
  • Acoustic requirements
  • Custom shapes
  • Powder-coat finish
  • Quantity
  • Delivery
  • Lifting equipment
  • Installation
  • Access
  • Existing-window removal

A small residential fixed window will differ considerably in cost from an oversized double-glazed commercial picture window.

Read our complete guide to the Cost of Aluminium Windows and Doors.

How Long Do Fixed Windows Take?

Lead time may be affected by:

  • Quantity
  • Window dimensions
  • Custom shapes
  • Glass availability
  • Double-glazing manufacture
  • Powder coating
  • Shop-drawing approval
  • Manufacturing capacity
  • Delivery location
  • Installation scheduling
  • Lifting requirements

Current production timing should be confirmed when placing the order.

Ordering Aluminium Fixed Windows Online

Before requesting a quotation or placing an order, confirm:

  • Width and height
  • Window configuration
  • Frame system
  • Glass
  • Colour and finish
  • Mullions or transoms
  • Quantity
  • Project location
  • Required performance
  • Supply-only or installation scope
  • Access and lifting requirements

Large, shaped or unusual fixed windows should be supported by clear drawings.

Read more about Aluminium Windows and Doors Online.

Supply Only

Under a supply-only arrangement, the builder or purchaser’s nominated installer is responsible for the installation.

The responsible installer and project parties must confirm:

  • Opening dimensions
  • Frame support
  • Fixings
  • Flashings
  • Waterproofing
  • Sealants
  • Drainage
  • Glass handling
  • Building interfaces

Installation should not be assumed to be included unless expressly stated in the accepted quotation.

Supply and Installation

Where installation is specifically quoted and accepted, EZ Windows can coordinate the agreed installation scope.

Check the quotation for inclusions and exclusions involving:

  • Existing-window removal
  • Disposal
  • Scaffolding
  • Crane or vacuum lifting
  • Structural alterations
  • Flashings
  • Internal finishing
  • External making good
  • Painting
  • Window furnishings

Aluminium Fixed Window Compliance

Project requirements may concern:

  • Structural performance
  • Wind pressure
  • Water penetration
  • Air infiltration
  • Glass thickness
  • Safety glazing
  • Human impact
  • Fall prevention
  • Energy efficiency
  • Bushfire exposure
  • Acoustic performance
  • Building classification
  • Accessibility

EZ Windows manufactures or supplies windows according to approved project information and the agreed scope.

Unless separately and expressly engaged, EZ Windows does not assume the responsibilities of the project architect, engineer, energy assessor, acoustic consultant, building surveyor or certifier.

Aluminium Fixed Window Warranty

Applicable product, glass, finish and installation warranty conditions depend on the supplied system and agreed scope.

Warranty coverage can be affected by:

  • Incorrect installation
  • Building movement
  • Glass damage
  • Lack of maintenance
  • Environmental exposure
  • Blocked drainage
  • Failed surrounding building elements
  • Damage by other trades
  • Unauthorised modification
  • Failure to follow care instructions

Powder-coat warranty conditions depend on the coating system selected and applied, environmental exposure and required maintenance.

Refer to the complete Aluminium Window and Door Warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an aluminium fixed window?

It is a permanently glazed aluminium-framed window that does not open.

Is a fixed window the same as a picture window?

A picture window is usually a larger fixed window intended to frame a view. The terms are often used interchangeably, although fixed windows also include smaller panels, sidelights and highlights.

Are fixed windows cheaper than opening windows?

They can be less complex because they do not require an operable sash, hinges, rollers, locks or winders. Final price still depends on size, glass, frame, finish and installation.

Can fixed windows be double glazed?

Yes. Suitable aluminium framing systems can accommodate double-glazed units.

Are fixed windows energy efficient?

They can achieve strong performance when an appropriate frame, glass and installation are selected. Large glazed areas must still be assessed for heat transfer and solar gain.

Can a fixed window provide ventilation?

No. Ventilation must be provided through another operable window, door or approved ventilation system.

Can fixed windows be floor to ceiling?

Yes, subject to glass, structural, safety, energy, transport and installation requirements.

Can fixed windows be custom shaped?

Potentially. Raked, triangular, trapezoidal and other project-specific shapes may be available, subject to the selected framing and glazing system.

Can fixed windows be combined with awning windows?

Yes. Fixed panels are frequently combined with awning sashes to balance views and ventilation.

Can fixed windows be used with aluminium window shrouds?

Yes. Fixed windows work particularly well with external architectural shrouds because no sash projects into the surround.

Can fixed windows be used in bedrooms?

Yes, but the complete room design must provide any required ventilation, egress and other applicable functions.

Does EZ Windows install fixed windows?

Installation is available where specifically quoted and agreed. Supply-only options are also available.

Request a Quote for Aluminium Fixed Windows

For an accurate quotation, send EZ Windows:

  • Window dimensions
  • Architectural plans
  • Window schedule
  • Required configuration
  • Glass specification
  • Frame colour and finish
  • Quantity
  • Project location
  • Required time frame
  • Supply-only or installation requirements
  • Access or lifting information for large windows

We can review the available information from a quotation and manufacturing perspective and identify any additional details required.

Request an Online Quote

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