How to Choose a Right Window Type

How to Choose the Right Window Type

Does it strike you that your windows aren’t complementing your architecture and impacting the overall look of your house? This happens when we purchase windows without understanding the functionalities and design of the windows and our specific needs. 

So if you are renovating or buying a house, or you’re just thinking about window replacement, let's go through the details here that today we are going to share about window types. This’ll help you select the right window with appropriate functionalities and an aesthetic design. 

Re-Consider Your Window Type

Ideally, the window replacement or purchasing process starts with considering and knowing about window types as it helps in achieving cost and energy efficiency. After having complete awareness of window types you can start to think of windows that can be replaced with each other. For instance, Picture windows could replace casement windows if they have never been opened, or sliding or hung windows can be used in place of casement windows that block exterior living spaces.

Let’s see what each window type entails.

Picture Window

Picture windows are made to ensure that the living space gets adequately ventilated and that people can enjoy unobstructed views. It’s easy to combine picture windows with functional windows to create a custom look by using different colors and grids.

It's easy to combine picture windows with operable windows to create a custom look by using different colors and grids. Picture windows offering unobstructed views and long durability often catch the attention of homeowners. You can use them in combinations if you wish to expand your view. Also, for added ventilation, they can be coupled with functional windows. 

Immobility and non-opening features make them highly energy efficient. 

Fixed Custom Windows

Known as fixed custom windows or architectural windows, they’re picture windows slashed to your specifications. The shapes include partial circles, angles, circles, and octagons. However, when looking to use fixed custom windows you may face some design restrictions. But this can be solved if you discuss it with your consultant and come up with a feasible configuration.

Casement Windows

Casement windows open outward like doors and have hinges. Most commonly, a crank handle is used to operate these windows. Homeowners love casement windows because they complement both, modern and traditional looks. 

These windows are often used for commercial and residential infrastructure as they let in fresh air and natural light. So you can breathe in fresh air and enjoy the bright sunlight effect in your living space. Customers get to choose from a large range of materials and sizes among which timber and aluminum are the top two favorites. 

Single and Double-Sliding Windows

Known as a slider window a single slider window includes two panes installed side-by-side in a compact sealed place. Two panes are fixed, while one is mobile. The inner pane will always open but the manufacturer can decide whether to put it on the left or right side. 

As with single sliders, double sliders have two panes. There is, however, the possibility of sliding both panes. Moreover, some models allow you to unlatch both panes from the panes which makes cleaning easier than with a single slider.  

One of the USPS of single or double sliding windows is that they don’t need much space which makes it easier to install them in congested spaces. 

Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows

An operable lower sash and a fixed upper sash make a single-hung window. In other words, the lower section of the window slides upward and downward while the upper part stays still. With single-hung windows, you get sufficient ventilation as they contain a bottom sash that vents. 

Double-hang windows are windows with two operable sashes sliding upwards and downwards. These are often called double-sash windows. Two primary moveable parts, the top and bottom sashes make up this window. Both of them can be opened to let fresh air in. Top sash openings help let go of heated air while cooler air from outside can pass through lower sash openings. This way your living space gets a very moderate temperature where you can relax. 

You can use single-hung windows for areas in your home where not much ventilation is needed. Let’s say a bedroom. It is best to use a double-hung window if both the upper and lower sashes are reachable. 

Bay and Bow Windows

Bay windows are three-sectioned windows that bow on the exterior side. In simpler words, it’s basically a picture window in the middle with two other kinds of windows on either side. Window types are usually the same on both sides. The corner of a bay window is usually cut off by an angle or oblique line. 

Through bay windows, you can add more space to your house. By extending the bay window from the house, you gain extra space to use. 

When it comes to bow windows, there are a minimum of four casement windows in an arc shape. Providing sufficient space, good lighting, and a pleasing view make these windows popular among many homeowners. You must choose bow windows if you intend to enhance space, get a more serene view and add more sunlight. Having varying window pane sizes and being lighter makes bow windows a better option than bay windows. 

Final Thoughts

When purchasing or replacing windows for your home, you must choose the right type of window as it can have a significant impact on both the aesthetic appeal of your home and its energy efficiency. Particularly when energy prices have spiked globally, you must take measures that can help maximize energy efficiency at home. 

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve shared the necessary details regarding different window types. Before you start the window buying or replacement process, give this a quick read!