Windows are more than just an opening in the façade of your home. They are a way to bring light and nature into your home, giving way to incredible views, ventilation, and plenty of sunlight.
The choice of a particular window is a pretty permanent one, so how do you know you are settling for the right type of window for your home?
Well, this article will help you understand the basics when choosing the right type of window for your house before you reach out to a professional contractor like this replacement windows Austin company.
1, Design
Different architectural styles employ different styles and designs of windows, and so the design of a window should match the architectural style of the home.
This Old House cautions against selecting an inappropriate window style that will end up looking out of character.
For instance, bay windows were a popular element of Victorian architecture, while bracketed window tops were closely associated with Gothic architecture.
Pediment style windows reflect Tudor architecture, and so it would be odd replacing such a window with, say, a stained-glass window popular in Gothic architecture.
When considering the style and design of the window, also take into consideration the window panes and mullions.
Window panes with grids may look good in one home and terrible in another house where single panel glass is preferred.
When it comes to grids, the fewer the grids, the more modern and contemporary a window looks. Grids bring about a classical look and feel popular in traditional homes.
2, Materials
Wooden window frames are the best when it comes to insulative value because they are not prone to cold and heat transfer.
Vinyl is a handy budget-friendly option that still offers excellent energy-efficient measures for an airtight seal.
Aluminium isn’t great when it comes to guarding against heat loss and transfer, but such windows are a better alternative to wood when used in rainy and humid climates where wooden frames may be susceptible to rot.
Composite window frames are virtually a maintenance-free window option that looks just like wood, having been made from a combination of wood shavings and plastic resins.
Fiberglass windows are costly, but they have the advantage of a low thermal conductivity as well as being the strongest and most durable windows in the market.
3, Purpose
Why do you need a window in that particular room?
Windows serve different purposes in a room. Some are designed to optimize views to the outside while others are meant to provide ventilation.
Of course, you would need an operable window if ventilation is your primary concern.
If you’re more concerned with views, however, then you can go for fixed windows where you have an expansive glass window looking onto a garden or backyard.
The purpose of the window will dictate its size as well.
You can have a big or small window depending on how much breeze you want to let into the house without making the interior chilly, or how expansive you would like for your view to be.
4, Function
How is the window going to open and close?
When it comes to how the window is operated, there are a ton of choices ranging from casement windows, sliding windows, awning windows, hung windows, etc.
Casement windows are hinged to the side and open outwards similar to how a door works.
Hung windows slide either up or down without there being any protruding when the window opens or closes. For this reason, they are a practical option for rooms that are directly linked to terraces, walkways, or patios.
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open by swinging outwards. These windows can stay open without letting in the rain, and this makes them suitable for basements.
Horizontal slider windows are popularly used in contemporary homes. Similar to hung windows, they do not protrude and so can be used in a room facing a balcony.
Picture windows do not open, and so they are used to frame a perfect view.
Skylights are installed on the ceiling. They can be used in the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom for views to the night sky or to let in light.
Jalousie windows, also known as louver windows, feature multiple slats of glass. These windows are popularly used in sunrooms or rooms facing porches.
5, Maintenance
Taking care of a wooden window is quite tasking. This is because the window will need to be repainted and restrained every few years. Additionally, wooden windows can be prone to water damage and rot, leading to the deterioration of the wood.
Vinyl windows, on the other hand, are effortless to care for. Their little upkeep makes them a very practical window choice.
The high strength of aluminium windows allows them to meet stringent coastal building codes, especially in areas that are prone to hurricanes.
