The style of window you choose can have a significant impact on the design, comfort, and energy efficiency of your home. Discover the latest window styles Huntsville AL to enhance your living spaces.
Windows that open and close easily are a must in homes with harsh winter climates and humid summers. Window frames that don’t swell or crack are also key for a long window life.
Casement Windows
Like doors, casement windows open and close with hinges attached to the side of the window frame. This design allows for a large opening that provides superior ventilation, especially during our summer heat. They also offer unobstructed views and can be installed in hard-to-reach spots to bring natural light into rooms.
When closed, they create a tight seal to prevent drafts and keep your home insulated. This makes them the second most energy efficient window type, after fixed-sheet windows.
Casement windows are available in a variety of styles. They can be installed as a standalone window or combined into a bay or bow window. They can also be built into a custom sunroom. When purchasing casement windows, choose a professional installer who offers a warranty. Many major manufacturers only sell their windows through authorized installers, while retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe’s carry multiple lines. This way, you can be sure that your new windows are installed correctly and will perform properly for years to come.
Single Sliding Windows
Homeowners frequently choose sliding windows, which slide horizontally to open and close, allowing airflow and ventilation. They also feature a minimalist design that complements any type of house.
Sliding windows can be made with either single or double panes and come in two designs, including end-vent slider windows and three-pane options. Both of these styles can be constructed with muntins that separate the windows into sections, providing a traditional look without compromising on energy efficiency.
Single sliding windows are ideal for homes with higher ceilings, as they can maximize ventilation from top to bottom and allow warm air to escape and cool air to flow in. However, they don’t seal as tightly as casement windows, and water can collect in the track if it rains. As a result, these types of windows require more maintenance and may need re-application of weather stripping over time.
Double Sliding Windows
Homeowners often choose these windows for their cost effectiveness and ease of use. They have a simple design and are perfect for locations where air flow is not a top priority.
Hung windows slide open and closed vertically along the window jambs. You can open both windows at once for optimum ventilation or keep one window opened and the other closed. Hung windows are easy to clean and are ideal for taller window openings.
These window types offer enhanced airflow and a great view of your surroundings. They are highly durable and require minimal maintenance. However, you should lubricate them regularly to prevent sticking. They can also rattle when a truck passes or strong winds blow. They may not be suitable for homes built in basements or crawl spaces or if you live in an area with strong storms. However, these windows can easily be customized to suit your home’s style and needs. Our experts will help you select the best windows for your space.
Picture Windows
Picture windows let in a lot of natural light and act as focal points for any room, framing beautiful views and creating a connection between the interior of your home and your outdoor surroundings. These large, unobstructed windows are also a great way to add architectural interest to your house and can help make rooms feel larger.
Considering they have no moving parts, these fixed windows are very energy efficient and can reduce heat loss significantly when they’re equipped with features like insulated frames and double or triple-glazed glass. They’re even more efficient if you choose windows advertised as energy-efficient that feature insulated sashes and panels infused with krypton or argon gas.
However, their biggest drawback is that they can be difficult to clean, especially if they’re located on a second floor of the house. To maximize ventilation and cleaning options, many homeowners choose to pair a picture window with casement or awning windows on either side, forming a wall of windows that can open and close as needed.