If you’re looking at window styles and you’re not sure which one would be best for your home, explore the more popular types of windows and find one that works for you. You’ll want windows that not only enhance your home but are easy to use and versatile. Consumers tend to go along with styles that are easy to operate, functional, and have a classic appearance. Here is an overview of some more popular styles being used in homes today.
Double Hung Windows
Of all the windows available, double-hung windows are considered the most popular window style. The window is comprised of panels that are vertically placed and can be moved in an up and down fashion. You can open them from the very top or bottom, which allows you complete control over air circulation. They seem to be the standard in most of today’s homes. These windows are great for air circulation, and cleaning is a lot easier. You can angle the window in such a way as to clean the inner and outer window. They are popular for other reasons that include:
- Their Versatility – Double-hung windows coordinate with most any home, and they can be enhanced as well with grids (grilles or mutins) and ornamental glass.
- Energy Efficient –Double-hung windows remain warm during the winter months and cool during the summer months. They also help with controlling Ultraviolet (UV) light that reaches the interior of a home.
- Utility Savings – With the built-in energy efficiency of double-hung windows, there are yearly savings on your utility bills.
- Limited maintenance – With the vinyl framing used on double-hung windows, rotting, warping, and peeling are literally nonexistent.
Single-Hung Windows
A single-hung window is one where the lower part of the window can open and the top half is permanently fixed. These are energy-efficient windows and are reasonably priced.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are popular in our country and Europe. This window style is one of the more common types of windows and is available as a single placement or in pairs. The window sits on side hinges that open and swing outward that allows the window to open like a door. They are available in wood, fiberglass, and vinyl choices. Casement windows bring natural light into a room and offer free air movement as well. Other benefits of casement windows include:
- Different, modern, and attractive look
- No sash to divide the window
- Provides tight seals
- Stops air leaks due to sealing
- Decrease in utility bills
- Keeps both cool and heated air in
- Ease of use in opening and closing
- Beneficial to those with difficulty opening/closing windows
Bay Windows
Bay windows have been around since the 16th Century and have progressed considerably since then. Both high-end and modest homes use bay windows to bring in sunlight throughout the day. You not only gain natural lighting but added space in your home. The window consists of three sections that bow out in an outward direction. The center window is similar to a picture window and on the other side are coordinating windows.
Bow Windows
The structure of a bow window is an arc-shape curve that includes four casement style windows. Added window panels are comparable to a bay window but contain the added panels in order to form the curvature structure. These windows are great for augmenting space, supplementing natural lighting, improving views to the outside, and enhancing the looks of a home.
Sliding Windows
A sliding window has side-to-side movement as opposed to windows that move up and down as they slide along a track. They are good to use over kitchen counters or sink areas as they allow for the entrance of light and air circulation, plus they give an open and modern feel to a room and a direct view to the outside.
Fixed Windows
Fixed windows are ones that don’t open. They are placed in outer walls to allow light to enter or can be installed in inner walls. Fixed windows come in many sizes and shapes. You can also request custom designs to coordinate with the features of your home.
Awning Windows
An awning window is a casement type of window that’s placed vertically with a top hinge that pushes the window out. It allows for air movement without the weather interfering with debris, leaves, and rainfall entering the space. It’s a more traditional look and is popular in older homes or where the climates cause their use. They are flexible windows that allow for the transfer of air into a home, yet help maintains privacy. Awning windows bring character to a home and the added extra of natural light.
Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows are an American classic and are distinguishable by their narrow strips of glass that both open and close together like window blinds. They are standard with old-fashioned trailer homes and houses.
Picture Windows
A picture window allows for expansive views of the outside. It’s a large glass piece that doesn’t open and is a good way to let in natural light to a room that isn’t in need of added air circulation.
Floor-to-Ceiling-Windows
A popular trend with windows is the look of one that covers an entire wall. These window types offer large views and the maximum amount of light to enter a room while they create an almost frameless appearance, with the limited demarcation between the inside and outside. It’s a look like no other.
There are many window styles previewed here with double-hung windows being the most popular. In thinking about changing out your windows, you’ll want to consider some styles given here. If you’re not sure what windows would work in your home situation or you just have questions, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the answers you need to make an informed decision.
