Choosing windows during a home remodel is an important decision that affects more than just the aesthetics of your house. The windows you pick for different rooms will significantly impact the flow of natural light, ventilation, energy efficiency, and even the overall value of your property. In this post, we take you through ten popular window options, discussing both classic designs and modern innovations to help you find the windows that will work best for your home.
Single-Hung Windows
A single-hung window is a window with a movable bottom ‘sash’, which is a word that refers to the part of a window that holds glass panes. In this type of window design, only the bottom sash moves vertically, while the top one remains fixed. Because they are compact in design and have fewer moving parts, single-hung windows are affordable and easy to install. They are a good option for areas with minimal ventilation needs like stairwells and hallways. If you plan to install single-hung windows, understand that cleaning the exterior of the upper sash can be challenging because it’s immovable and you will have to clean the exterior glass from the outside.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows come with two sashes that move up and down and also tilt inward for easy cleaning. This window design offers better ventilation and is compatible with both traditional and contemporary homes. They are oftenused in multi-story homes, bedrooms, and living areas. However, compared to casement windows that we discuss next, they tend to have a higher air leakage risk due to the sashes slightly shifting out of place or seals wearing out during use. Because of the many moving parts, you may need to maintain it routinely to keep it in top condition.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are windows that are hinged on one side of the frame and open outwards like a door. They may come as a single or double “door” but in one frame. These windows have a secure closure with very little to no air leakage, making them a good choice for locations with cold temperatures. Yet, if you enjoy catching a breeze in your home, casement windows are an excellent choice as they offer good airflow when fully open. Casement windows are well-suited for kitchens, bedrooms, and modern homes.
Awning Windows
Awning windows get their name from the way they look when they are fully open, in the shape of a traditional awning. These windows are hinged at the top and open outward like an awning. They usually can extend out about 45 degrees, but not much more than that. Awning windows are a practical choice for locations with frequent rain as they can remain open even when it's raining. In thisway, you can have ventilation needs no matter the weather. The downside to awning windows is that they have limited ventilation compared to other types of windows due to their limited clearance when open.
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows are window structures that extend beyond the level of the walls, creating a protrusion that adds depth to the interior of the walls. The difference between these two types of windows is that bay windows are made of three panels with a fixed central pane and two angled windows on each side. Bow windows on the other hand have four or more panels arranged in a curve for a softer and flowing appearance.
Both bay and bow windows expand interior space visually and functionally maximize natural light because of their outward protrusion. These windows work best in living rooms, dining areas, and the master bedroom where more light and the impression of more space is valued. The cons to bay and bow windows is that they need wall structural adjustments to create more room for installation and thus require more labor and money for the project.
Picture Windows
Picture windows get their name from the concept of framing and displaying a home’s exterior to those who are on the inside. These windows are large, and fixed, but do not open, letting in a lot of natural light. Because picture windows have no moving parts making them low maintenance. All you need is to periodically clean the glass panels for unobstructed views. Picture windows are a great investment for offices and living rooms, especially in places with beautiful scenery. However, because they don’t open, they don’t offer any ventilation which may cause indoor air quality issues and may cause the room to be hot during sunny months.
Slider Windows
Slider windows, as the name suggests, operate by sliding on a horizontal track. Because of the sliding mechanism, slider windows just need a simple push to the side to open. Their design makes them suitable for kitchens, living rooms, and spaces with wide walls. Unlike picture windows that lack ventilation, slider windows can open widely to let light through as well as ample ventilation. However, because of their moving parts, they are less energy efficient compared to casement windows. The tracks also collect debris, requiring frequent cleaning to avoid clogging and jamming the slide.
Jalousie Windows
Derived from the French word “jalousie” which means blind, the jalousie windows are composed of horizontal slats of glass or metal that tilt to open. Their design makes them an excellent choice for ventilation in sunrooms, patios, and coastal homes. These windows are not just easy and affordable to install, they are also easy to maintain due to the individual slats that you can easily replace. However, if energy efficiency (as defined by the US Department of Energy) is your priority, they may not be the best pick as the movable panels leave gaps that let air in and out. That’s why they are limited to warm or coastal climates.
Skylights
Skylights are roof-installed windows that can be fixed or operable. These windows are primarily made to let in natural light which is beneficial for your well-being and give a sense of openness in dark or enclosed spaces. You might consider these during a kitchen remodel as they are a good option for ventilation. bathrooms, and living areas with high ceilings if they have the ability to open and close. Many people find skylights a desirable architectural feature to the interiors of a home and it may be a selling point when advertising your home. However, it’s important to note that skylights require proper professional installation to avoid potential leaks, which is a common problem with poorly installed skylights.
Glass Block Windows
Glass block windows are a unique type of window that’s made of translucent blocks of glass. These blocks are held together with mortar or thinset and sometimes installed with metal or PVC frames. During a bathroom remodel, glass block windows are a great option. Furthermore, they can be used in basements, and accent walls These windows increase privacy while allowing in light. Although they are made of glass, which may appear brittle, they are actually quite durable and resistant to shattering. They of course do not allow any extra ventilation.versatility.
Breakdown of Window Types and Properties
| Window Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
| Single-Hung Windows | Movable bottom sash, fixed top sash, compact design, affordable. | Affordable, easy to install. | Difficult to clean exterior. |
| Double-Hung Windows | Two movable sashes, better ventilation, easy cleaning, requires maintenance. | Better ventilation, easy to clean. | Higher air leakage, frequent maintenance. |
| Casement Windows | Hinged on one side, opens outward, secure closure, good airflow. | Good airflow, secure closure. | Limited for cold climates, needs clearance to open. |
| Awning Windows | Hinged at top, opens outward, good for rainy areas, limited ventilation. | Good for rain, continuous ventilation. | Limited ventilation. |
| Bay and Bow Windows | Protruding structure, maximizes light and space, requires structural adjustment. | Maximizes light, expands space. | Costly installation, structural adjustments needed. |
| Picture Windows | Large, fixed, lets in light, low maintenance, no ventilation. | Low maintenance, unobstructed views. | No ventilation, can overheat rooms. |
| Slider Windows | Horizontal sliding mechanism, suitable for wide walls, requires frequent cleaning. | Ample ventilation, wide openings. | Tracks collect debris, less energy efficient. |
| Jalousie Windows | Horizontal slats, tilts to open, good ventilation, not energy efficient. | Easy maintenance, good ventilation. | Not energy efficient, limited to warm climates. |
| Skylights | Roof-installed, provides natural light, enhances openness, requires professional installation. | Natural light, adds openness. | Prone to leaks if poorly installed. |
| Glass Block Windows | Translucent blocks, increases privacy, durable, no ventilation. | Durable, increases privacy. | No ventilation, no open functionality. |
Conclusion
When building or remodeling your home, there are many choices of windows for you to choose from. Every window has its pros and cons to choosing a window for your home depends on its aesthetic appeal as well as your desired functionality for the space with factors including light, ventilation, need for privacy, and ability to clean. If you are looking to install new windows for your home, inquire with us about our home remodel services or call us at 212-920-9163.
Frequently Asked Questions
Single-hung windows have a movable bottom sash while the top sash is fixed. They are compact, affordable, and good for areas that don't need much ventilation like stairwells and hallways.
Awning windows open outward and are hinged at the top, allowing them to remain open even during rain, preventing water from entering the home
Bay windows consist of three panels with a fixed central pane and angled side windows, while bow windows have four or more panels arranged in a curved shape.
Jalousie windows have horizontal slats that tilt to open, leaving gaps that can let air in and out, reducing their energy efficiency.
Glass block windows are durable, provide privacy, and allow natural light while being resistant to shattering, making them ideal for bathrooms and basements