One of the most challenging stages of renovation is the widening of existing windows. Not only can this breathe new life into a room and change its whole look, but it can also improve the exterior appearance of a home. Hence, during the planning process, it is important to take into consideration several factors before picking what would, hopefully, be the ideal window design.
You may want windows that would let the natural light in, capture the outdoors and frame the perfect view outside of your house while also maintaining a semblance of privacy. Or you may want to make sure that the windows would be appropriate for the size and function of the room they will be in. For example, since kitchens have several wall cabinets, it may be better to settle for a relatively narrow window that is easy to open and close. A living room, however, can accommodate more, and larger, windows and doors. Hence, the windows you’ll have installed in a living room or family room will be distinctly different from one that will be placed in a kitchen or bedroom.
On the other hand, change in windows may have nothing to do with renovating a room but may due to necessity. If your windows do not close or open properly, if you feel a draft of cold air in winter or heat in summer, or if cracks are starting to show in the window-panes on in the casing, then it is high time to consider getting a replacement window. Below is a list of window types you may want to check out:
- Two-panel slider
Two-panel sliders are considered to be the most common kind of sliding window out there. With two panels that slide left and right, it is suitable for narrow spaces, is easy to install and can look good with both classic and modern buildings. As it does not swivel inwards or outwards, it is relatively easy to install. It may be difficult to clean the outside part of this type of window though. - Picture window style
This style of window gets its name from the fact that it does not open in any way but just frames an outside view. It is not commonly seen in houses and is one of the most unique types of windows. It is generally not covered with blinds or curtains and is easy to install. It does not offer any form of ventilation, albeit being one of the most energy-efficient forms of windows. - Hopper window style
Hopper windows are horizontal rectangles that are hinged at the bottom. They open by tilting the window from the top vertically inwards the house. It provides excellent insulation, is easy to operate and is great for narrow outside spaces. One of the major issues with this window style is that it limits room space since it opens inwards. - Awning window style
Awning windows are very similar to hoppers except in one way: instead of tilting inwards, it tilts outwards. While it does not limit room space, it is still difficult to clean as the outer portion of the windowpane is inaccessible from inside. It does provide insulation and can prevent rain and snow from entering the house though. - Single Hung Window
A classic and common design, a single hung window essentially operates via the bottom sash. This type of window is better suited for windows facing pathways and other narrow spaces as it does not open outwards. It is easy to install and affordable but can be difficult to clean. - Double-hung window style
One of the most common and affordable types of the window out there has to be the double-hung window type. It is a very practical type of window as it is energy-efficient and comes in many designs. Like the single hung window though, this style of window also has limited ventilation. - Cottage window style
The cottage type of window is often called the “front window type”. Aside from its small upper stash, the features of this window are very similar to the aforementioned double-hung window. It offers a classic, timeless design that is affordable and low maintenance. The only minor problem with this window is the small upper stash that is hard to clean. - Bay window style
Bay windows usually have outward frames that are hexagonal. This form of window adds both space and aesthetic to any room since it gives a panoramic view of the outdoors. It is not the type of window that will be appropriate for places with limited outside space. It is also expensive to replace and maintain. - Bow window style
Bow windows are variations of the bay window that have straight edges and are in the form of arches. Its curved edges give it the shape of an arch and make it larger compared to bay windows. It has a very elegant design that adds space to any interior. But the curved shape of this window makes it a costly option. - Skylight window
Installed in the roof or ceiling of vacation houses and cabins, skylight windows conserve energy and provide a beautiful view of the sky. Although it can cause leaks in some cases, it naturally brightens a room and can make it more aesthetically appealing.
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