You might be surprised at everything you need to consider when choosing new windows. Whether they’re for a new build, replacements, commercial, or residential, you will have to weigh several factors when making your decisions. For example, energy efficiency is important, as is the color of the frames, how the windows open, if at all, and what materials the frames will be made from.
If you are looking to install residential windows, then it would be wise to have as many as possible in your home in the same style. However, having too many differences, especially on the same side of the house, can look jarring and unappealing. Therefore, changing out windows can have a major impact on your house, so you need to make the right choices. Here are six window styles and their impact on your home so that you are informed when making your decision.
Sliding Sash Windows
As the name would suggest, these windows open by sliding the sash. The sash sits on a track that allows for easy movement, whether they open vertically or horizontally. They can be single-hung or double-hung. Single hung means that only one sash can be opened or closed. Double-hung means that they can open from either the top or the bottom. What a sliding sash window offers is easy use. They open and close easily, and they are simple to lock. They are great if there is a walkway or an area where people might be on the exterior since they will not be a hazard or impediment to movement. Sliding sash windows have been very popular for decades because of how versatile they are, along with their durability.
Awning and Casement Windows
You can look to casement and awning windows for another classic and popular style. They are single panes of glass that are opened using a crank. Many older homes from the early to mid-1900s have these windows. They are especially common in the rainy areas of the east coast. They are great for allowing air to flow while also controlling how much. Many people like to install this type of window in bathrooms. Because of the angle at which they open, you can ventilate a bathroom with these types of windows and keep things private.
Fixed Windows
Fixed windows don’t open or close at all. They are made up of a sealed pane of glass in a frame that is connected to the wall without any hinges or handles. For example, picture windows on the front of houses are usually fixed windows. They are great for providing a lot of light since the glass can be uninterrupted. They are also better for your energy usage since they are permanently sealed. If at all, they take longer to develop gaps, and they can’t be left open by accident. They are also flexible in that they fit with any home style. If you do install fixed windows in your home, you may want to have others nearby that can open as a way to have some ventilation in the space.
Tinted Windows
No matter what kind of windows you have installed, there is always the option of having them tinted. This is not just something you can do with cars. Getting residential window tinting in Charlotte, NC provides several benefits. For one, some window types, such as fixed windows, do not allow for heat to escape. With a tint, heat has a harder time getting into the home in the first place. Plus, you can have some privacy while still being able to keep the blinds open and enjoy some natural light that doesn’t give off too much glare.
Skylights
Skylights have a variety of uses. As opposed to being installed in an exterior wall, a skylight is installed in the ceiling. They can be a great source of natural light, especially for an attic space or an open concept large space that doesn’t get consistent light all the way through. Another type of skylight, called a sky window, can open and close to give a little extra ventilation into a space. They are perfect for the summer heat because they can vent out hot air in the home. In the winter, they allow for the sun to hit directly into the house, which helps provide more heat.
Bay Windows
A bay window tends to be placed at the front of the house where they can be used as a large picture window. They are formed using several panes of glass, all combined with frames into making a larger window that extends out from the building, leaving a sill. In most cases, there is a large window in the center and smaller windows off to the sides. These smaller windows can often be opened and closed to add ventilation. They are great for providing visual acne to a room that is usually large and well-used. In addition, they give homeowners a constant view of what is happening outside of their homes. If you’d like, you can install smaller bay windows in bedrooms or other rooms for placing plants, trophies, or as a reading nook.
As you can see, there is a lot that goes into choosing the right kind of windows. Besides looks, always consider function, ventilation, and light. No matter what, you will be with new windows for a long time, so you don’t want to choose something you aren’t happy with. Get the style that works for you and your space, and enjoy your windows for years to come.
