WindowMaster and Fieger combine ventilation and smoke extraction in single façade system 

Manufacturers WindowMaster and Fieger have agreed a partnership that lets architects and façade contractors specify everyday ventilation and fire-safe smoke extraction through the same opening.

Tested as one system to EN 12101-2, the two functions have usually been bought separately and coordinated late, adding cost and risk to complex projects, the partners say, whereas under the new agreement they can be planned from the first design meeting.

The deal also brings exclusive sales rights for WindowMaster for FIEGER’s louvre solutions across the UK and Ireland amongst other countries.

WindowMaster designs façade automation for natural, hybrid and smoke ventilation from its base in Denmark, while Fieger builds energy-efficient louvre windows in Germany. Together they say they are pitching the partnership to take a step out of façade design, pairing Fieger’s louvres with WindowMaster’s ventilation strategy and control systems from concept through to handover.

Erik Boyter, WindowMaster CEO said:

We find that in complex façade projects, there is a clear advantage to integrating fire ventilation, energy efficiency, and indoor climate considerations from the very beginning. Consultants require documented performance, façade contractors want fewer coordination issues, and building owners aim to reduce project risk. Therefore, it makes no sense to view the façade, actuators, and control systems as separate solutions; they must function as a single, integrated system,”

Smoke is one of the biggest dangers in a fire because it cuts visibility and slows evacuation, the partners said. Windows in buildings such as multi-storey homes, high-rises, schools, hospitals and offices have to open fast and reliably when needed, then provide everyday comfort ventilation the rest of the time. Meeting both jobs at once means treating the window, motor and control technology as one integrated system from the beginning.

The approach is especially suited for projects that need early coordination of smoke extraction, natural ventilation and façade designs, such as those with long stairwells, thermal airlocks, atriums and shared areas.

The same façade opening handles two jobs, the partners said: In daily use, it provides comfort ventilation and steadier airflow for a healthier indoor climate. In a fire, linked to smoke detectors and fire alarm panels, it opens for fast, reliable smoke extraction.

Heat exhaust vents are central to the design. They use façade louvres to vent smoke and heat automatically, keeping both substances clear of stairwells and access routes; so people can get out and emergency services and first responders can get in.

The system integrates heat exhaust vents without limiting design freedom, the partners noted, combining façade elements, automation and ventilation in one solution tested to EN 12101-2.

Erik added:

The advantage lies in combining functions that are often handled separately in construction projects. When louvre windows, motors, and control systems are considered together from the outset, it becomes easier to align natural ventilation, smoke extraction, and façade integration. This reduces project complexity and ensures a cohesive solution from concept to operation.”