Timber windows

Pure nature – timber windows 

Wooden windows radiate warmth, coziness, and well-being. They allow living spaces to breathe and are true energy-saving champions. Olivier and Steve Messerich, managing directors of Schreinerei Vincent Messerich in Hosingen, explain why wooden windows are increasingly being used again in new constructions and renovations.

Why are wooden windows making a comeback now? 

Olivier Messerich: “Wood has been used for centuries in window and door manufacturing. More and more people are considering the ecological aspect. Wood is a renewable resource, with logging strictly controlled. The production of wooden windows is much more environmentally friendly than that of other building materials. Wooden windows fit perfectly into the ecological overall concept of wooden houses and clay-plastered walls. Overall, in the construction industry, we see people opting for natural building materials again.” 

Why do people choose timber windows? 

Steve Messerich: “Wooden windows are suitable for virtually any architectural style. The most common reasons for choosing wood include:

• Sustainable resource: Wood is a naturally renewable material that combines optimal ecological and economic aspects.
• Pure nature: Wood is a living material that offers comfort and protection at the same time. It has appealed to people for many centuries.
• Optimal insulation values: Wood provides excellent insulation properties.
• Unlimited design possibilities: Wood offers diverse design options.
• Quality and cost-effectiveness: For those prioritizing quality and seeking a good price-performance ratio, wood offers the right solution.”

Which wood is used to make windows at Messerich? 

OM: “The choice is extensive. In our region, oak is most commonly used because it comes from local forests and is perfectly suited to our weather conditions. Oak is a noble and hard wood that provides the necessary stability to window profiles. Light and soft woods like larch, pine, and spruce are often used in combination with aluminum. This gives a light wood tone inside and a sturdy aluminum shell outside.”

Do wooden windows always have to look like wood? 

OM: ”No, not at all! For wooden windows, almost any design is possible. The exterior can be painted in any color—whether pink, blue, or green. At the same time, the interior can be treated with a clear varnish to preserve the wood grain and enhance the cozy wood character. All window finishes are water-based. In terms of design, everything from small niche windows to large wooden and wood-aluminum window fronts can be realized. Wood is very durable.”

Where does Messerich produce its windows? 

SM: “At Messerich, everything is 'Made in Luxembourg'. All our windows are manufactured in our production halls in Hosingen. Our experienced carpenters work with state-of-the-art machinery to produce high-quality wooden windows. Compared to other materials, the production, processing, and disposal of wooden windows require little energy. Producing wooden windows requires more effort, which creates more jobs. In addition to pure wooden windows for the private sector and heritage protection, we also produce wooden and wood-aluminum windows for commercial projects.”

How secure are wooden windows? 

SM: “Wooden windows offer high basic strength. Wood does not yield quickly, making it harder to break into compared to PVC or aluminum. The security of a window depends on various performance characteristics. Our wooden windows come standard with RC1 security fittings. Upon request, we can upgrade them to RC2. Additional security glass provides further protection.”

How often does a wooden window need to be repainted?

OM: “Not as often as many people might think. We offer a 10-year warranty on all opaque finishes. Regarding stains, it's worth noting that lighter stains require more frequent repainting. Medium wood tones are very easy to maintain and only need reworking approximately every 5 years. Very light or dark wood tones are only partially recommended in our region. Windows never need to be repainted on the inside. Similar to annual polishing for a car, windows can be treated with a care milk in spring and autumn for additional protection. Professional advice is always recommended.”

For more information about the company, visit www.messerich.com. Current free product catalogues can be conveniently ordered by phone at +352 26 91 12 1 or by email at info@messerich.com.