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When planning for window installation, make sure that it’s complimentary with the architectural style of the house. Some homes feature more than one style of windows, however, mixing different styles in a single home isn’t recommended by most designers.
Nonetheless, there are several factors to consider before choosing the right window for your home. These may include the following:
- The basic operating style
- The pros and cons of window types
- Materials used
- Ventilation access
- Energy efficiency
Moreover, cleaning windows can be risky and challenging for some window types which requires ladders to reach. Fortunately, the services offered by expert window cleaners like transparentwindowsutah.com, can help you cleaning and maintaining the quality and beauty of the apertures. These services use professional-grade products to wash windows and turn them into sparkling clean views.
In this article, you’ll learn the popular window types installed in homes nowadays.
Awning Windows
Awning windows operate by pivoting from the top of the window sash with mechanical cranks which opens and closes them. It’s usually matched with large picture windows and can be placed on top, bottom, or sides of the picture window to allow ventilation. These types of windows are quite secure against intruders, and they can be left opened during rain, since the glass prevents water from entering inside.
However, since these types open out, it’s not recommended near walkways and other traffic areas as it may cause obstruction. Rather, it’s frequently used in the basement or in below-grade applications.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are similar to awning windows, as it opens out and has pivot cranks from side hinges. It shouldn’t open out into the traffic lanes, just like awning windows.
The difference between them is that casement open crank horizontally and hinges are mounted one side on top and bottom. One side remains intact while the other side can be open like a door.
Most casements have large glass panes that allow enough light to pass through. These types of windows offer more ventilation areas than other types. Additionally, these windows can improve energy performance since it has a very effective seal when locked.
Casement windows have a slightly modern style yet second only to double-hung windows in terms of popularity. When these are properly installed, it can be efficient in catching and directing cooling breezes into your home.
Double-Hung and Single-Hung Windows
The most common and familiar window types are the double-hung and single-hung windows. Both offer better access to ventilation but double-hung windows are slightly better. That’s because it has two movable sashes that can be moved down while the single-hung has a fixed upper sash and a movable lower sash. Moreover, double-hung windows can be cleaned inside and out without the need for a ladder.
These types of windows have better exterior appeal in houses, giving a classic decorative look. For instance, it can be useful when installed in a classic rambler, farmhouse, and bungalow styles. Nevertheless, when compared to casement and slider windows, these kinds have a less open area and can be more prone to air leakage. A double-hung window type can be a safety hazard for little kids when installed low in a wall due to the wide opening when the bottom sash is open. Remember to replace the windows when the counterbalance springs or sash cords tend to break out over time.
Picture Windows
These windows are best where airflow isn’t important because picture windows don’t open at all. It's usually a large glass aperture mounted in the center portion of a wall for broad views and sufficient sunlight. These windows work best for high windows like two-story foyers.
Furthermore, picture windows are less prone to air and water leakage since they don’t open. But it can gain or lose an intense heat, due to their large glass panes. This is because the materials have a high rate of heat transfer diffusion even with energy-efficient double-pane installation.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are the best choice for architects to produce angles and projections on a building structure. The windows are called bay when the shape of the extension forms like a square and it’s referred to as bow when the projection is more curved. It allows light to pass through at different perspectives and most of them have side windows that can be opened for airflow.
These windows are usually installed in kitchens and family rooms. The large window sill is sometimes used for plants or a window seat.
Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows are cheap solutions for tropical areas, especially where air conditioning isn’t needed. It consists of glass set in metal clips that can be opened and closed. The use of jalousies can provide maximum airflow but offers narrow and limited views. In terms of security, it tends to be less secure, compared to other standard window types.
Slider Windows
Slider windows can be opened sideways and offer clear views and enough ventilation, but it can’t be sealed as tight as casements. It’s very simple and has no mechanical parts. This makes them the least expensive type of window.
These types are often used for basement egress windows because it has wide openings and easy operation. Some utility windows at the upper basement walls tend to be sliders, since it’s a better choice for constant open and close windows.
Bottom line
It’s imperative that the window type must serve its purpose. The factors like ventilation, energy efficiency, workability, safety, and additional pros and cons should be considered to ensure you buy an appropriate window. Your windows can be perfect if it offers the optimum benefits at your end.
