Are you in the process of building a new home? Looking to make renovations to your existing home? If so, you’re going to have to decide on the types of windows to install.
Windows come in a wide variety of styles, each of which provides its own set of functional and aesthetic benefits. Not sure of what’s available to you? Then read on.
We’re going to review eight different types of windows to consider for your new build or renovation.
What Types of Windows are Available to You?
There are all types of windows available on the market and they all provide something different in terms of performance and aesthetics. Need help choosing the right window for your home? Read on to learn their pros and their cons.
1. Single-Hung Windows
Some of the most common windows are single-hung windows. Taller than they are wide, these windows possess a single moving sash. This sash is positioned at the bottom of the window and moves in an up-down manner.
Single-hung windows are beneficial in a number of ways. Not only do they provide ample sunlight and visibility, but they also allow for a good deal of ventilation variation.
Aesthetically speaking, they’re basic. Because they’re so common, they don’t have many unique qualities. That said, they will not detract from the overall aesthetic of your house.
2. Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are almost identical to single-hung windows. However, they possess one big difference: whereas single-hung windows have only one moveable sash, double-hung windows have two moveable sashes.
The result of this? Increased ventilation variation. Plus, because both sashes can be adjusted to different levels, they’re much easier to clean.
When in a closed position, double-hung windows possess no aesthetic differences from single-hung windows. They’re both taller than they are wide, sporting basic, no-frills aesthetics.
3. Casement Windows
Casement windows are similar to single and double-hung windows in terms of aesthetics, particularly when they’re in their closed positions. However, when opened, casement windows’ panes extend in an outward and angled manner.
Functionally speaking, they’re quite a bit different from hung windows. Whereas hung windows are opened with a push of a sash, casement windows are opened with a turn of a lever. This lever is turned over and over again until the window has opened to the desired clearance.
Taller than they are wide, casement windows provide ample amounts of sunlight and visibility. And because their panes can be opened to varying degrees, they provide quite a bit of ventilation variation as well.
4. Sliding Windows
Another window you might consider installing is the sliding window. A sliding window is essentially a hung window that has been turned on its side. Wider than it is tall, it contains one moveable sash and opens in a left-to-right manner.
Sliding windows are useful because they allow for a great deal of peripheral vision. Depending on the size of the window, it will allow you to use every millimeter of your periphery.
These windows are also great for sunlight and ventilation purposes. Because they can be opened to varying capacities, they allow for a great deal of ventilation variation.
5. Picture Windows
Aptly named, picture windows are mounted to walls like picture frames. As such, they can not be opened. Available in a number of sizes and shapes, they add a unique aesthetic to any home they adorn.
These windows are terrific for visibility and sunlight purposes. Note, however, that because they can’t be opened, they don’t allow for any ventilation at all.
Picture windows are most commonly found in corridors, staircases, and upper stories of homes. Their inability to open ensures that individuals can not fall out of them.
6. Garden Windows
One of the more unique windows is the garden window. These windows extend outward past the exteriors of their corresponding homes, exposing them to substantial amounts of sunlight.
Why are they designed in this manner? To ensure that indoor plants are receiving ample sunlight on a daily basis. Not to mention, they offer a unique aesthetic punch.
Garden windows can generally be opened, allowing for a bit of ventilation. Note, however, that if ventilation is your key priority, you should opt for something else.
7. Bay Windows
If you’re looking for a large architectural window to put in your living room or dining room, you might consider a bay window. Bay windows consist of three separate panes, all of which extend past the exteriors of their corresponding homes in an angled manner.
These windows are generally the aesthetic centerpieces of their corresponding rooms. However, they serve much more than aesthetic purposes.
In addition to providing ample sunlight and visibility, they also allow for a great deal of ventilation variation. Capable of being opened in a number of configurations, they’re highly functional.
8. Bow Windows
Bow windows are similar to bay windows. However, they differ in the number of panes they possess. Whereas bay windows possess 3 panes, bow windows possess between four and six panes.
The result of this? A slightly different aesthetic and a few more open-close configurations. All things considered, their sunlight and visibility capabilities are essentially the same.
And then there’s the question of cost. Because bow windows contain more glass overall, they’re generally much more expensive than bay windows.
Which Types of Windows are Right for Your Home?
Has this article been of assistance to you? Know which types of windows are right for your home? If so, and if you’re ready for window installation in San Diego, we here at US Window & Door can help you.
We offer all of the windows reviewed above and have installed them on countless homes throughout the San Diego area. Regardless of your needs, our team can accommodate you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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