The windows of a home play a crucial role in its overall appearance and functionality.
When installing windows for your home, many options are available in various styles, making window selection very challenging.
This blog post will explore 10 types of windows popular for residential properties. From classic, double-hung windows, to contemporary sliding windows, there is a style to suit every home and personal taste. We will explain them all so that you do not have difficulty deciding which window will be right for your home.
At the end, we will also discuss some helpful tips to help maintain your windows.
#1 Casement Windows
Let us start with one of the most common types of windows most common in Tulsa homes, casement windows. These are rectangular windows that are attached to the frame with the help of a hinge. A casement window opens outwards with the help of an attached crank, which because of its mechanics, is also called a hinged or cranked window.
These window types are constructed for ventilation and come with a durable seal. This allows it to provide maximum ventilation and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
This type of window has been in use for quite some time and is still amongst the top-selling windows on the market today. This is due to the fact that they have a sleek, classic construction that goes well with traditional and modern-style homes. They are also one of the most common replacement windows installed.
Pros
- Casement windows are designed to allow for maximum airflow.
- They are weather-resistant windows systems.
- They come with a durable seal, which helps to keep air and moisture out of your home. This improves their energy efficiency.
Cons
- These windows have size limitations, and you might have trouble finding the right size for your home.
- The windows can become difficult to operate if the crank or the hinge breaks
#2 Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows have been a staple in most American homes for decades. This type of window is popular with many homeowners because of its classic style and practical functionality.
A double-hung window has two sashes that can open and close independently, which allows you to ventilate your home from top to bottom. You can even open both window panels at the same time to let in more air.
Double-hung windows are also known for their traditional look and easy operation. Nowadays, these window types come with a tilt function, which allows the sashes to be tilted inward for easy cleaning and maintenance without having to go outside.
The double-hung window is versatile and can fit in various settings, including traditional and contemporary spaces. Most popular for bedrooms and kitchens, these can be installed on walls facing the backyard, and second-story rooms.
Pros
- Double hung windows allow for easy ventilation, as both sashes can be opened to allow for maximum airflow.
- They are versatile and can be used in almost any type of home.
Cons
- Double hung windows can be more expensive than other types of windows.
Also read, Double Hung vs. Single Hung Windows: What’s the Difference?
#3 Single-Hung Windows
Besides the popular double-hung windows, there is another category of hung window types, called a single-hung window system. This type of window is one of the most affordable flat windows available on the market.
A single-hung window is similar to a double-hung window in terms of style and design but lacks the functionality of the latter. They only have a single operable sash at the bottom of the window. Therefore, you can only open this window from one end while the upper sash remains fixed.
Since you cannot open both sashes on the window simultaneously, single-hung windows offer less ventilation and airflow than a double-hung wiindow, making them less energy efficient. So if your only purpose is improving ventilation, you should avoid choosing this type of window. However, you do have the option to choose from a variety of color options at a price that will not burn a hole in your pocket.
Pros
- Single-hung windows are very affordable, and replacing existing windows of this type is also not costly.
- Single-hung windows are widely available, most retailers supply single-hung windows.
- Easy to replace window type.
Cons
- Less functionality than a double-hung window, or other window styles.
- Unable to provide adequate ventilation to your home.
#4 Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are the simplest type of window available in the U.S. The slider window does not protrude inwards or outwards, instead, the window just slides along a track. It has two sashes, one fixed and one that moves, and they are usually made of glass. The moving sash slides along the track to open and close the window to let in fresh air.
Also, no mechanical components are involved in the slider windows, including its hinges, or moving parts apart from the slider handle. This makes this window type affordable compared to other windows.
However, there are certain limitations associated with these windows as well. As these windows age, sliding them open and close can become tricky. The sliding track can also become filled with dust and debris and can be difficult to clean, so regular maintenance is required.
Pros
- Cost-effective window system with a simplistic design.
- Sliding windows are easy to open and close due to the easy sliding function.
- They are available in a range of sizes and styles.
Cons
- Not as energy efficient as casement windows or bay windows.
- Can accumulate dust quickly on the tracks.
- Difficult to clean compared to other windows.
#5 Bay Windows
In architectural terms, a bay is a space between architectural elements that form a compartment or opening. Bay windows get their name from the space they create in the interior of your home, caused by its windows extending out from the exterior wall of a building, forming a bay within the interior space.
A classic bay window is characterized by combining three windows to form a single system. The window pane at the center is usually a fixed, picture window. In contrast, the windows on both sides of the center window tend to open.
Bay windows add space, light, and interest to a room as well as provide extra storage space or seating area. They are often confused with bow windows, but bow windows have more of a curve to them, giving a round appearance on the exterior of your home.
Pros
- These windows enhance the look of your property’s exterior.
- They help to create extra shelf space on the interior. You can customize your bay windows in a different way.
- Bay windows can help to increase the amount of natural light in your home.
Cons
- This window type can be difficult to install as it involves multiple windows.
- Bay windows can be more expensive than traditional windows, both in terms of cost and maintenance.
#6 Picture Windows
All the types of windows we discussed in the above sections have different features, but all have one thing in common, you can open and close the windows. However, a picture window is different in this aspect.
A picture window is a fixed window system that cannot be moved or opened. They are stationary, so they do not open or close and are often placed in the center of a wall to maximize the view.
It is called a “picture window” because it provides a clear and unobstructed view, like a picture frame. Picture windows are often used to let in natural light and to provide a view of the outdoors. Since they do not open, these windows are not suitable for increasing your home’s ventilation.
Pros
- Fixed picture window types provide an exceptional view of the outside, even better if you install them on the second floor.
- They’re strong and durable windows that have a durable seal, allowing them to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Cons
- They are not suitable for ventilation.
- Not as energy efficient as other types of windows.
#7 Awning Windows
These windows have a hinge at the top and swing outward from the bottom, differentiating them from the regular windows that open outwards from the side.
The design of these types of windows is similar to an awning you would see hanging over old shops. The window opens out to form a roof-like shape when it is open.
Awning windows are typically smaller than other types of windows and are often used in combination with other types such as casement or picture windows, to provide ventilation and natural light. They are a popular choice for bathrooms and other small spaces where a full-sized window would not be practical.
Pros
- Awning windows can provide ventilation even when it is raining.
- They increase the security of your home.
- They’re durable and energy efficient.
Cons
- Awning windows can be difficult to clean.
- They may not provide as much light or views as other types of windows.
#8 Glass Block Windows
Glass blocks are a bit different from regular windows. They do not have transparent glass, meaning you cannot see through them easily, but these fixed windows are significant in terms of the room’s architectural look.
The glass blocks used in these windows are typically thicker than regular window glass, which makes them more resistant to breakage and damage.
One thing you can expect from this type of window is privacy. Glass blocks are often used in windows because they provide a high level of privacy and security while still allowing light to pass through.
These windows are also very durable and energy efficient. Because the blocks are solid, they provide excellent insulation, which can help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, also allowing you to save on your energy bills.
Pros
- The glass blocks are strong and durable.
- They can offer privacy and be used in multiple areas of your home.
- Glass block windows also add a unique, and attractive aesthetic to any home.
Cons
- These windows are not suitable for ventilation purposes.
- Though aesthetically pleasing, the windows lack function. You do not get a clear view of the outside with these windows.
#9 Hopper Windows
Hopper windows are an innovative style you can use to bring fresh air into the interior rooms of your home. If you are looking for window styles that can easily fit a small space without much hassle, then hopper windows may be perfect for you. They look similar to an awning window, as both of them are smaller in size and have a horizontal position. However, while an awning window opens outwards, hopper windows open inwards. This inward opening also makes the window frame easy to clean.
They are also often used in conjunction with other types of windows, such as double-hung windows or casement windows, to provide additional ventilation.
Pros
- They’re a good option for homes with limited window space.
- They are easy to clean because they open inward.
- Their compact size makes them secure and hard to break through.
Cons
- Hopper windows do not provide as much light or views as other types of windows.
- May not be as energy efficient as other types of windows.
#10 Skylights
Though not a conventional type, skylights are categorized under window systems, and you can choose to install skylights to bring more natural light into your home. These are the types of windows used on your roofing system, and skylights are typically installed on sloped roofs at angles to allow maximum light to enter the room. If you live in a building with limited access to natural light, this style of window is your best option for lighting.
Earlier skylights were available in only a classic rectangular shape, but due to technological advancements, skylights are available in different shapes and sizes, and now come with various automatic features.
Pros
- These windows can help increase the natural light in a space.
- Skylights can increase the value of your property.
- Modern skylights can be operated with a remote.
Cons
- Prone to leaks, especially during heavy rain.
Want To Install Suitable Windows For Your Home?
Each of these types of windows has unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which type of window to install in your home. Ultimately, suitable window styles can enhance your home’s aesthetic and energy efficiency, so it’s worth taking the time to research.
If you are still unsure, feel free to reach out to the team of A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing. We are the best roofing and window installers in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We have been in the industry for years and take pride in our work. Whether you want to install classic single-hung windows or more complex windows such as skylights, we do it all. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167.
