The Most Common Types Of Windows Used By Home Builders

Whether you’re buying a new home or building a brand new addition, it’s not just enough to think about the structure of your space. If you don’t spend enough time picking out the right window types for each space, your new home could end up looking much different than you expected. Even if you’ve scoured every possible website to find the best flooring and design options for building your brand new home or addition, you could still end up making a decision you regret if you don’t get windows that help take each room to a new level. You don’t need to know a lot about home windows to make the right decision. Whether you’re looking for more natural light, a roomier appearance in one of your cozier home areas, or simply want great airflow in the kitchen or study, the right windows can help you get what you want. Before you start building, take a look at a few of the most commonly-used window types beloved by home builders everywhere.

Casement Windows Let in the Air

If you have a room, area, or an entire floor of your home that can’t quite catch the breeze in a conventional way, casement windows provide a terrific fix. Since they function by opening outward, they’re able to direct the airflow that’s moving around the house inside hard-to-ventilate rooms, especially where the windows are placed in a high up or hard to reach area. These windows are great for creating a natural, breezy atmosphere while letting in the light and giving homeowners a great view. Since casement windows are supported by sashes and a crank system, they don’t need (and can’t support) as thick of a frame, meaning you’ll be seeing more view and less framing. If you keep your casement windows well-oiled and taken care of, they’ll also provide great protection against break-ins. Since these windows can only be opened from the inside, they’re able to close completely flush against the side of your home, keeping burglars from finding an easy first-floor entry point.

Awning Windows Expand the View

For fans of natural light, awnings are a perfect choice. Not only do they let the light into areas on the second and third room of the home, they’re also great at increasing ventilation. Awning windows are perfect for private areas like bathrooms and bedrooms that don’t need a large showy window installed but do need enough light and air to feel comfortable and stylish. These windows can also be built side by side if you’re building a house with a bunch of bedrooms sitting next to each other on a high floor.

Picture Windows Set the Scene

If you have a view that you want to really show off, there’s nothing like a picture window to give it the perfect frame. Picture windows are one of the oldest forms of windows out there and consist of a single pane of stationary glass. You can install a large picture window in a den or living room to open out onto the garden or place one on a higher floor to look out onto a balcony view. Wherever you decide to place your picture window, make sure the view is worth it. Weatherproofing your picture window might prove a bit more difficult, but since the window itself is stationary you won’t have to deal with too many gaps and air leaks during colder weather. Picture windows can also be great performers in bathrooms, especially larger rooms on higher floors with a more open floor plan.

Double-Hung Windows Protect the Home

For a time-honored look and unbeatable exterior protection, double hung windows are where it’s at. Home builders don’t just favor this window style because it’s trusted and true. When it comes to double hung windows, you can get a great-looking window that also provides great security. Most double hung windows don’t open fully and can only catch a breeze if it’s flowing directly forward. Because of this, these windows are best used in exterior areas that don’t need a ton of ventilation, such as a shed or an attic. They’re easy to clean, can be easily painted and repaired, and will always lend even the most modern homes a more classic, traditional look.

Bay Windows Offer a Panoramic Display

For home builders who love the idea of a picture window but aren’t quite ready to commit, the bay window is a great compromise. Not only do you get the beautiful, panoramic view of the outdoors, you’re able to actually open the window out onto your view. Bay windows are perfect for kitchens, especially if they’re overlooking the garden or backyard. They’re ideal for installing above the sink, and their unique style makes them perfect for placing plants or herbs nearby to soak up the sunlight.