Aside from age, damage, drafts, and/or condensation/fog between the panes, there are a number of reasons why you should consider replacing the old windows throughout your home Below is a quick look at the different types of replacement windows.
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Double Hung Windows
These windows are the most popular type of replacement windows because they are versatile and fit with almost every home design. Also, Double Hung windows work well in every room, especially in areas with limited space since the windows open vertically.
Double hung windows feature two moveable sashes – the bottom sashes can be raised and the top sashes can be lowered. When both sashes are cracked, cool air can enter at the bottom and hot air can escape at the top. The top and bottom sashes can be the same size or they can be different sizes – ex: a larger bottom sash and a smaller top sash. The sashes interlock where they meet, and feature additional weather stripping and reinforcement to prevent air flow and water infiltration. Both the top and bottom sashes tilt inward for easy cleaning.
Sliding Windows
Also known as gliding windows, sliding windows provide top to bottom ventilation. These windows have sashes that move independently from side to side on a heavy-duty track and roller system. Both the sashes and the screens can be removed from the frame for easy cleaning. The sashes interlock where they meet, and feature additional weather stripping and reinforcement to prevent air flow and water infiltration. Sliding windows work well in areas of the home where there is more horizontal than vertical wall space.
Sliding windows come in 2-panel and 3-panel styles. With the 2-panel option, both sashes are operable. In the 3-panel option, the middle sash is stationary.
Casement Windows
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Casement windows are attached/hinged to one side of the frame and open by swinging outward. These windows provide full top to bottom ventilation and let in a lot of natural light. Casement windows open with an easy to use crank and feature a single-lever multi-point locking mechanism for security.
Casement windows can be installed separately or the windows can be joined together to form double or triple casement combinations.
Picture Windows
These are large, stationary windows that act as “picture frames” by providing an expanded view of the outside. Because picture windows are stationary, these types of windows will not have any ventilation. If installed alone or in combination with another window, this will provide ventilation in the room. Picture windows will allow more natural light into the room(s) than any other type of window.
Awning Windows
These windows are hung horizontally with the hinges at the top. The windows will then open at the bottom towards the outside. Because of the way that awning windows open, they provide some (but not complete) protection from rain. Awning windows can be installed by themselves. These types of windows work well in bathrooms because they offer more privacy than some other types of windows. They can also be installed above, below, or alongside other stationary or operating windows. Awning windows open with an easy to use crank and feature a single-lever multi-point locking mechanism for security.
Basement/Hopper Window
Similar to awning windows, basement windows, also known as hopper windows, are hung horizontally. Unlike awning windows, basement windows are hinged at the bottom and open towards the inside at the top. As the name implies, basement windows are perfect for the basement where there isn’t as much room for a window. These windows also work well in small bathrooms where they can be installed near the ceiling for privacy.
Bay and Bow Windows
These types of replacement windows extrude beyond the walls of the house, providing more interior space inside the house. This additional interior space can be transformed into a window seat or shelf. Because these windows extrude from the house, they will require their own roof and the roofing/siding material will need to be attached to the rest of the house so that it is waterproof and weatherproof. Also, when considering having a bay or bow window installed, keep in mind the location so that the window will not interfere with a sidewalk, patio/deck, or other exterior features.
Both bay and bow windows provide an expanded, panoramic view. They also allow additional light and heat to enter the interior of the home.
Bay windows are made up of three sashes that are joined at an angle. The center sash is typically a stationary picture window. The side sashes can also be stationary, but double hung or casement window options are available as well. A bay window typically extrudes more from the wall than a bow window.
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Bow windows are made up of four or more windows that are joined together to create an arch or a curve. Sashes are available in double hung, casement, or stationary picture windows. Typically, bow windows are wider than bay windows. They also allow in more natural light.
Garden Windows/Window Box
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Similar to bay and bow windows, garden windows/window boxes extrude outward from the side of the house and allow in more light. As the name implies, garden windows act as mini green house or small indoor garden for plants, flowers, and herbs. Light is able to enter the garden window through the front, top, and both sides. The top and front are stationary windows, but the sidelights can either be casement windows or picture windows.
Shaped Windows
Great Lakes Windows offers stationary windows in a variety of different sizes and shapes – including round, half-round, and trapezoid. Shaped windows are mainly for aesthetic purposes or to allow for more light. These types of replacement windows can be installed by themselves or in combination with other types of windows. Because shaped windows do not open, there is no worry of air infiltration.