Pros and Cons of Popular Window Styles

There are many factors to take into consideration when selecting windows, whether replacement or new construction. Materials for frames, options for glazing along with energy efficiency are among the most important components. Before you get to that point you must consider the fundamental operating style of windows. There are variations in the style of windows Some of them are variations or combinations of styles.

The majority of homes have several styles of windows. Most designers suggest mixing too many styles into a single house in order to avoid an unbalanced appearance. It is likely that when replacing one window, you’ll keep the same style, however replacing all windows offers the possibility of changing the look of the entire set to create a completely new look. The style of the house is also a factor in choosing a window style since certain styles of windows are typically connected to specific architectural styles. For window, and area calculation uses an area calculator.

Window Styles

Common window styles are:

  • Double-hung windows
  • Double-hung with muntins
  • Casement windows
  • Windows with awnings
  • Slider windows
  • Fixed windows
  • Skylights, roof windows, or skylights
  • Window with bow or bay
  • Block windows made of glass

Here are some ideas for these window styles.

1. Double-Hung Windows

While you might not be able to recognize the official title the window design is most likely the one that you’re familiar with the most. Double-hung windows are characterized by two huge sashes (frame units that are surrounded by glass panels) that move upwards and downwards within vertical tracks. In earlier styles, the sashes were counterbalanced with weights concealed behind wall pockets in the case moldings. However, in contemporary double-hung windows, it is more usual for the sashes to be balanced with springs concealed inside tracks. To find the area of the circle window you can try an area of circle calculator.

Uses

Double-hung windows are primarily used often in homes that have a classic, traditional styles, however, they are also used in modern homes that are traditional. The traditional farmhouse, rambler as well as bungalow style, like make use of a lot of double-hung windows.

Pros

  • Double-hung windows are manufactured by several manufacturers, meaning your options are wide.
  • The cost is generally affordable, because of the abundance of this kind of window.
  • Double-hung doors are usually simple to open and close because of springs or weights.
  • They are vertical, and they aren’t filled with dirt.

Cons

  • As time passes, the counterbalance springs could wear out, or sash cords could break. The windows need periodic maintenance to keep them running efficiently.
  • The huge opening can create an entry point for criminals.

WARNING

Double-hung windows pose dangerous for children if they are installed low in a wall due to the fact that they have an expansive opening in the event that the bottom sash is opened.

Single-Hung Windows

A variation of the double-hung window design is the single-hung windows.

Single-hung windows resemble double-hung windows because they each have two distinct lower and upper sashes. The distinction between them is that the upper part of single-hung windows is held in place, which allows only the lower part of the sash to be operated.

Single-hung windows share the same advantages and disadvantages as double-hung windows. However, they have some advantages in terms of energy efficiency. In general, they are thought of as an affordable alternative to double-hung windows.

2. Double-Hung Windows With Muntins

This is a straightforward variant of double-hung windows where more sashes have been split into smaller panes inside the larger frames using an array of vertical and horizontal muntins. In older windows or modern windows, these muntins might actually be used to hold small glass panels. However, in most modern muntin windows create an illusion caused by a grill composed of plastic or wood that rests on top of an enormous pane of elegance. 

In many double-hung windows, muntins are a feature to add. For triple- or double-glazed windows, the muntins may sit between the huge panes of glass. This creates an illusion that smaller panels of glass.

Pros

  • Similar to double-hung windows.
  • It gives a classic, old-fashioned look.

Cons

  • Similar to double-hung windows.
  • In true muntin windows, the muntins could split from the glass with time, which can reduce the effectiveness of the window.
  • Fake muntin grills look cheap and unauthentic.

3. Casement Windows

Casement windows can be opened horizontally using hinges that are fixed on one side at the bottom and top. One side is stationary and the other side is able to pivot and opens like an entrance. These windows are extremely common and are just behind double-hung windows when it comes to popularity.

Uses

  • Casement windows sport a more contemporary style than double-hung windows and when they are properly placed they are effective in sending cool breezes into your home.

Pros

  • Windows made of casement are thought to be superior to double-hung windows in blocking drafts as the window seals are generally very secure.
  • Casement windows are great for when you need them to “scoop” cooling outside air into your home.
  • Windows made of casement are fairly secure against burglars, as the area that is open is thin when the windows are opened.

Cons

  • If they are fully extended, the window frames can be ripped off by powerful winds.
  • Mechanisms for cranking mechanically are susceptible to wear and have a high rate of failure.
  • Window cases do not count as Egress windows unless they’re very big.

4. Awning Windows

Awning windows function exactly the same manner as casement windows. They have mechanical cranks which open and close them. The windows that are awning can be opened from the bottom when cranking, with the top edge firmly in place, while the bottom edge pivots outward and upwards.

Uses

They are typically employed in windows with low levels where burglars may be an issue and in climates with heavy rainfall where it is necessary to open windows if it’s raining. Awning windows of a smaller size are typically employed in basements or in applications below grade.

Pros

  • Awning windows are pretty secure from burglars.
  • The windows can be left unlocked even in light rain because the glass functions as an awning to block water from getting in.

Cons

  • Awning windows don’t take the fresh air from outside as casement windows do.
  • As with casements, the mechanical cranks of awning windows are susceptible to wear and are prone to failure. rate.

5. Slider Windows

The sliding windows of Slider are simple. They are made up of side-by-side windows that slide horizontally on the bottom and top tracks. In certain designs both windows slide and in different styles one window is fixed, while the other slides from side to side.

Uses

  • Slider windows are very popular in contemporary mid-century home designs (they were common in new construction throughout the 1950s and 1960s). Sliders are an excellent choice for homes that require you to continually move windows open or close.

Pros

  • Sliders do not have mechanisms or cranks, which is why they’re extremely durable.
  • Windows tend to be more affordable than other styles because of their simplicity in appearance.

Cons

  • The tracks can be saturated with debris and dirt which requires regular cleaning.
  • Sizes and shapes aren’t as big.

6. Fixed Windows

A fixed window is any window made of glass panels that are fixed inside a frame for windows which does not shut or open. The picture window is probably the most well-known model of fixed windows However, there are different kinds.

Uses

  • Fixed windows are designed to allow a view or light when ventilation or egress isn’t an essential requirement.

Pros

  • Fixed windows are sealed for life and therefore offer greater energy efficiency than other window varieties.
  • The minimalist design is a great fit for modern-style homes.
  • Fixed windows are generally more affordable than other window styles.

Cons

  • Fixed windows can cause excessive energy loss in sunny, warm climates.
  • Since they aren’t able to be closed, fixed windows have the inability to allow fresh air.

7. Skylight or Roof Windows

The terms skylight and roof windows can be used interchangeably, but generally, skylights are described as fixed or fixed windows within a roofline. In contrast, a roof window refers to the same type of window which can be opened or closed to allow for ventilation.

Uses

  • Skylights and roof windows are ideal for bringing light into attic spaces, or upstairs spaces where wall space is constrained by windows. They can also increase lighting and air circulation for big “open-concept” rooms through the use of framed shafts or chases, which extend from the skylight into the attic until they reach the floor below.

Pros

  • They can be a useful option to increase the light in the attic or second-story space.
  • Venting roof windows are a great way to get rid of hot air during summer.
  • Continuous, direct exposure to the sun can mean windows are able to help keep spaces warm in winter.

Cons

  • Roof windows and skylights endure an abrasive beating from rain and sun. These windows are susceptible to damage and last a long time than other windows.
  • Installing a roof requires a specialist as cutting through the roof is beyond the capabilities of the majority of DIYers.

8. Bay or Bow Window

A bow window or bay is a type of window that makes a piece that extends beyond the wall of the home. They are known as bay when the form that extends outward appears more or less square and they are referred to as bows when their shape is more curving.

Bow and bay windows are typically made up of an unmoved picture window in the center with the sides flanked by a pair or more of double-hung or casement windows.

Uses

  • A bow or bay window can serve as a focal point in big living rooms or family rooms. They can also be used as parlors. They usually look out at a beautiful panorama or a garden including the front garden.

Pros

  • Bow or bay windows make an aesthetic statement that is unlike any other feature in your home.
  • These windows are great if you need a continuous perspective of the outdoors.
  • These windows can be used as shelves to plant plants or display ornamental items.
  • Small bay windows are able to serve as greenhouse windows to grow herbs as well as other plant species.

Cons

  • Bow or bay windows can be extremely expensive.
  • The installation of these windows will require an extensive amount of framing work, which includes the roof and headers.
  • The huge surface area usually isn’t air sealed, which can cause problems with heat loss.

9. Glass Block Windows

Glass block windows are fixed windows that are constructed from architectural glass blocks, which are usually put in place with mortar. The blocks that are thick are usually constructed from semi-opaque glass which lets light through, but blocks views.

Uses

  • Block windows made of glass are frequently used in bathrooms and other areas where you need to let in light without obstructing the view. They can be placed on foundation walls to bring sunlight into basements. Certain designs include ventilating panels integrated inside the structure.

Pros

  • Block walls made of glass are the safest of all windows because the block’s weight and thickness are permanently anchored with mortar.
  • They are transparent and semi-opaque making them ideal in areas where privacy is crucial.
  • They have excellent insulation properties.
  • Glass blocks are extremely durable They are extremely durable and rarely require replacement.

Cons

  • Glass blocks aren’t easy to incorporate into the home design. They are usually utilitarian instead of decorative.
  • On walls facing south glass, blocks can make indoor spaces warmer.