12 Window Styles and the Benefits of Each Type
When it comes to selecting windows for your home, there are many style options to choose from each with their own benefits, practical applications, and aesthetic charms. For example, a fixed window may frame the perfect view without the distractions of light dividers, but it won’t be able to open for cool spring breezes. Arched windows may look beautiful and cohesive on a Mediterranean style home, but they would look very out of place on a Mid Century Modern ranch home. Our Texas-based architects are reviewing 12 of their top favorite window style selections along with the pros and cons of each.
12 Types of Windows and the Pros and Cons of Each Style
Windows are a key feature of any home and have been utilized for thousands of years to allow for natural light and airflow. Window styles not only affect the aesthetics of a home, but they play a large role in efficiency, practical use, and convenience. Here are the 12 most popular types of windows, as well as their benefits and limitations.
Single-hung Windows
Single-hung windows have one sash that can move and one that is stationary. Typically, the upper sash is stationary and the bottom one can move up to allow for airflow. This style of window is commonly seen, as it is budget-friendly and allows for screens to easily be incorporated. However, they can be difficult to clean as only one outside sash is accessible from the inside.
Double-hung Windows
Double-hung windows have two operable sashes that can be opened for airflow. This allows for more efficiency, as warm air can escape through the top and cool air can be channeled through the bottom. They also offer the option to open only the upper sash, which is great for children’s rooms and play areas where safety is a concern. As an added convenience, these windows can be cleaned completely from the inside.
Horizontal Sliding Sash Windows
Sliding sash windows open horizontally on a track, similar to a sliding door. This style allows for easy operation, compact design, and exterior screens. It is perfect for windows that are horizontal and narrow because they couldn’t accommodate the single or double-hung style. The compact design is also ideal for tight spaces where there is not a lot of room to navigate both inside and outside the home.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged at the frame and open towards the outside rather than up and down. This style offers a more modern and streamlined feel, as it typically has less light dividers than single or double-hung windows. They also offer energy efficiency because the sash creates an airtight seal when closed. However, casement windows don’t typically allow for screens, have size limitations, can be more expensive, and can create navigation problems for outdoor walkways near the home exterior.
Arched Windows
Arched windows are curved at the top to add additional architectural detail. They typically do not open, but occasionally they are designed in the casement style. Arched transom windows can be combined with single or double-hung windows to achieve the arch look while maintaining practicality for airflow and cleaning.
Porthole Windows
Porthole windows are circular and add fun detail to the home. Like arched windows, they typically don’t open but they can be designed with hinges to open like casement windows. Porthole windows were popularized in the Art Deco style.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open from the bottom outward, forming a similar slope to an exterior awning. They can be left open during light rain to allow for ventilation with protection from the elements. These windows should not be used if they open onto high traffic outdoor areas, as they protrude from the house and could cause a hazard.
Hopper Windows
Hopper windows are similar to awning windows, but they are hinged from the bottom and open inward from the top. These are typically reserved for humid spaces that need ventilation, like basements or bathrooms. They’re good to use near high traffic outdoor areas, as they limit obstructions.
Fixed or Picture Windows
Fixed or picture windows are solid panes of glass that allow for unobstructed views to the outside because they are free from sashes and light dividers. They are the perfect way to frame a stunning view and make it the feature of the interior space. However, they do not open and don’t allow for any airflow. Fixed windows can be paired with awning or casement windows to achieve airflow while still maintaining the unobstructed view.
Fixed Windows, The High Road Residence
Transom Windows
Transom windows are accent windows that are installed above doorways. Transoms are great for accentuating the front door of a home, allowing for more natural light with the benefit of privacy, and offering opportunities for more airflow within the home. Transom windows come in a variety of styles that can either be fixed or open in the awning or hopper fashion.
Transom Windows, Woodview Residence
Bay Windows
Bay windows are structurally built off of the home exterior and are typically made up of three flat windows, two of which are set at an angle. Bay windows can be designed with single-hung, double-hung, casement, or fixed windows. They are great for areas like breakfast nooks, where one could add built-in banquet seating to expand the space.
Bow Windows
Bow windows are similar to bay windows. Multiple flat windows are set on a slight curve that extends off the home exterior. Unlike a bay window, this extension is often more gradual and doesn’t create much additional interior space. Bow windows can add visual interest to the home exterior and capture more natural light inside.