The Evolution of the Indian Window Industry: A Decade Perspective

Having been a part of the window industry since Decade in multiple Roles, I have had the unique oppor-tunity to witness the transformation of this sector over the past decades. The journey has been remarkable, with significant advancements in materials, technology, and performance standards.

A Look Back: The Window Industry Two Decades Ago
In the early 2000s, windows in India were predominantly small-typically measu-ring 4’x4’ or 6’x4’. Window openings had external shades (chajjas) to provide basic protection, and there was minimal awareness of performance testing. Conversations about structural integrity, weather resistance, and energy efficiency were often dismissed with statements like, “Our windows have been working fine for years.” The market resisted innovations such as Domal aluminium profiles, and uPVC was largely unaccepted.

At that time, glass thickness ranged from 3mm to 5.5mm, and the use of double-glazed units (DGUs) was rare. Sun protection was primarily addressed through tinted glass and sun films, with little understanding of modern energy-efficient glazing solutions.

The Entry of Global Players: A Turning Point
The entry of major European uPVC profile manufacturers, aluminium system providers, high-performance hardware suppliers, and advanced glass solutions introduced Indian consumers to new concepts such as energy efficiency, noise reduction, and enhanced functionality. Windows were no longer seen as mere openings but as key components in modern building design.

However, one of the biggest challenges remained—installation. A high-quality window installed poorly ultimately resulted in a poor-performing window. This issue continues to be a critical factor in ensuring long-term performance and durability.

The Façade Industry and Its Influence
Simultaneously, the façade industry was evolving rapidly. Unitized façades became more common, and façade testing standards gained importance. Developers and architects started priori-tizing air and water leakage prevention, structural performance, and acoustic insulation. IT parks and corporate buildings, with their expansive glass façades, set new benchmarks for the industry.

This shift attracted many traditional window producers towards façade projects, resulting in aluminium windows losing their prominence. Meanwhile, uPVC windows gained popularity, particularly in southern India, where window sizes were compa-ratively smaller. The industry recognized the advantages of uPVC—welded corners, multipoint locking systems, and superior durability—especially when compared to poorly fabricated aluminium windows that suffered from powder coating defects, corner gaps, and substandard hardware.

Post-2010: A Shift Towards Engineered Solutions
From 2010 onwards, the construction industry in India underwent a dramatic transformation. Taller buildings, larger windows, and performance-driven testing became the norm. The rise of formwork construction led to rapid project execution, attracting aluminium system companies back to the window market.

Installing windows in high-rise structures posed unique challenges, requiring skilled façade manufacturers who could ensure structural stability, lightweight design, and minimal sightlines. This gave aluminium windows a significant edge, particularly in commercial and high-end residential projects.

The Rise of Larger Windows and Performance Expectations
With evolving architectural trends, window sizes increased from 6’ to 7’ in height, and doors from 7’ to 8’—now reaching up to 10’ in some premium projects. A common misconception is that larger windows reduce the cost per square foot, but in reality, they require stronger mullions and reinforcements to withstand high wind pressures. Without proper structural design, oversized windows can pose serious risks during extreme weather conditions such as cyclones or storms.

Regulations and Standards: Shaping the Future
A major milestone in the industry was the inclusion of glazing standards in the National Building Code (NBC), which emphasized the importance of using safety glass in construction. However, the focus on glass alone is insufficient—the entire window system, including framing materials and installation techniques, must be evaluated holistically to ensure safety and durability.

In recent years, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been actively working towards establishing comprehensive norms for profiles, doors, and windows. The collaboration between industry leaders, government bodies, and testing agencies is paving the way for a new generation of window technologies.