PART I: A Multitude of Options: The Why Behind The Different Window Styles

If you’ve ever looked up a window-buying guide online, you have noticed the sheer number of styles and options for windows. Because of this, you might be tempted to either just go with what you’ve always had, or just pick something at random. Choosing something at random is may be a bad decision, however. And while the same old options still might work, they are likely to be options on newer windows that will outperform your older ones. Consider the following:

Not all energy-efficient windows are equal

While just about any replacement window you buy today is probably guaranteed to be more energy-efficient than your old windows, not all of them are energy-efficient in the same ways. Some window styles are better at keeping your home sealed against the outside environment, resulting in an overall reduction in your heating and cooling bills. Some excel over others at bringing cool breezes into your home, reducing your dependence on air conditioning. Still others are better at letting in natural lighting, allowing you to reduce the need for artificial light.

Different window options, primarily revolving around the glass, can increase or decrease the amount of visible light, the heat due to sunlight, and the amount of heat they are capable of trapping. Depending on the exact mix of these, coupled with the style of window you choose, they will have differing effects on your energy consumption, energy savings, and the comfort level of your home.

PART I: A Multitude of Options: The Why Behind The Different Window Styles

Not all windows work for your home’s architectural style

Different window styles came about as part of different architectural movements, all of which were in vogue at different times during the last couple of centuries. As these architectural movements reflect the differing aesthetics and sensibilities of their times; they are rarely interchangeable. Windows designed for Victorian homes, for example, do not necessarily work well in homes with a more modern aesthetic. Even within the limits of an architectural style, some window types don’t necessarily work well in all parts of a home; some window styles can work better in terms of style and functionality. So, it’s important to match aesthetics as well as function when choosing windows for your home.

Part II goes on to discuss the first four styles of windows on our list: double hung, casement, and bay and bow windows.

PART 2: Double Hung, Casement, Bow and Bay

DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS

Double hung windows are the most common type of windows in use today. These windows essentially operate so that two window sashes – smaller frames within the larger window frame itself – can be moved vertically along two separate tracks. This allows for either the top or bottom half of the window to be opened at any one time.

Double hung windows look great either as a single, or as multiple windows spread over a wide opening. Because of their method of operation, double hung windows work best in places that are easy to reach. This means that some places, like stairway landings, high window openings, and areas immediately above counters may not be well-suited to double hung windows. You’re better off with other window styles in these areas.

CASEMENT WINDOWS

Casement windows open outwards, much like a small door. They are fitted with a crank, which you turn to open and close the window.

Because of the way a casement window’s operating mechanism allows the window to be sealed shut, it’s the most energy-efficient style of window available that can still be opened and closed. Opened, they let in the breeze from the outside, and closed, they seal up tightly to keep your home’s energy within the home.

PART 2: Double Hung, Casement, Bow and Bay

Casement windows are best installed in areas where they will not interfere with outdoor activities. Upper-floor windows, areas above landscaping, and other locations without much outside traffic are ideal.

BAY AND BOW WINDOWS

Bay and bow windows let more light into a room while making it look bigger by expanding your living area. They are well-suited to just about any space in your home. The main difference between the two is the number of panels that make up the window.

Bow windows are made up of 4 to 6 casement window panels in a sweeping arch. Bay windows consist of three window panels extending outwards from your home’s exterior wall; the side panels can be either double hung or casement windows, while the middle is immovable, like a small picture window. In either case, the area created is well-suited for plants, decorating, or even as a sitting area.

Our last installment, Part III, deals with picture windows, sliding or gliding windows, awning windows, and specialty windows.

PART 3: Picture, Sliding, Awning, And Specialty Windows

PICTURE WINDOWS

Picture windows are ideal for showcasing a particular view. With maximum glass area available in a window, picture windows frame the view, creating perfect pictures of your favorite landscapes.

Picture windows do not open like other styles of windows, but can be turned into a combination window by pairing the large unobstructed pane in the middle with two operable window panels on the sides. With or without the smaller windows, picture windows are great for framing large spaces with a spectacular view. The choice of adding the operable windows at the sides allows you to frame your view and helps ventilate your room at the same time.

SLIDING WINDOWS

Also called gliding windows, sliding windows open from side to side, and work best for large, long horizontal openings. They feature the largest glass area of any operable window, and are excellent choices for lighting and ventilation in areas where people walk, congregate, and socialize.

Walkways, decks, patios, and sidewalks are perfect places to install sliding windows, especially if another style of window might interfere with outdoor passage through the area. Since a sliding window can be opened without intruding into the area, they are the ideal choice for such situations.

PART 3: Picture, Sliding, Awning, And Specialty Windows

AWNING WINDOWS

Awning windows are similar to casement windows: they open outwards by operating a crank. Instead of opening sideways, however, they open upwards and outwards, much like an awning, thus the name. The window’s bottom folds out, and the top remains stationary when the window is opened.

Awning windows work best in areas that are hard to reach, where a more traditional style of window, such as a double hung window, would be difficult to operate. Places such as stairway landings and the areas above sinks and counter tops are good places for awning windows.

SPECIALTY WINDOWS

If none of the other styles quite fit what you’re looking for, you can choose to go with a custom window. There are dozens of different styles, shapes, sizes, and grille options that you can mix and match to come up with just the right window. Whether it’s an arch you want, or something more uncommon, like a circle or triangle, it is possible to have such a window designed and made just for you.

RbA Central PA

4856 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050

717-591-4900

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