From bay windows that add character and charm to sliding windows ideal for smaller rooms, there are endless varieties of window types to choose from. Learn about each construction type’s opening styles, designs and purposes.
Consider your location and climate when making your selection. Insulation properties are essential in preventing heat loss while maintenance requirements should also be considered.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are often found in new construction homes and make an excellent choice for replacement or remodeling projects. Offering moderate ventilation, single-hungs come in an assortment of styles, materials, and colors for optimal comfort and style.
Single-hung windows feature an upper fixed sash that remains immovable while its bottom movable sash opens vertically using counterbalances in its frame channel. Single-hung windows tend to be cheaper than their double-hung counterparts and may provide significant energy savings over time.
Single-hung windows with stationary top sashes tend to allow less air infiltration, making them an excellent choice for homes with children, pets and those seeking increased security. However, their limited movement can make cleaning them more challenging.
Double-Hung Windows
Double hung windows offer many different design and style choices for style, function, and design. Not only are they energy efficient and possess superior strength and durability, they can also come in an assortment of colors and decorative options that make your window truly one-of-a-kind.
Sash windows allow homeowners to regulate ventilation. Opening either of the top sashes allows cooler air in, pushing out warmer indoor air and creating an ideal home environment.
Double-hung windows differ from single-hung ones in that their sashes can be tilted inward for easier cleaning compared to their counterparts, which have fixed sashes, in that their tilt mechanism allows easier access for second story windows that would otherwise require laddering to reach. They also accommodate for an array of window air conditioners and accessories like storm doors – as well as being removed to facilitate cleaning more easily.
Slim Fixed Windows
Slim fixed windows within The Ottawa Valley (also referred to as picture or architectural windows) offer the most energy efficient and cost effective window style available, letting in natural light while simultaneously warming your home in winter without needing heating systems – both saving you money while improving mood.
Your view is always at its peak with slimline windows designed to match the narrow frame sizes of slider and hung windows for an uniform appearance, providing a minimalistic style while still offering ample views out. They may even be combined with casements to create harmony in your home.
They come in an assortment of shapes including circles, arches, eyebrows and polygons to allow maximum design flexibility. Window combinations such as triangle and trapezoid windows can help expand your view while adding dimension.
Casement Windows
Casement windows combine style, ventilation, beauty and functionality into one compelling solution for window design. Hinged on one side for ease of operation from inside the home, casements open outward like doors via an internal crank mechanism that opens outward like doors.
Large glass panes with minimal framing offer unobstructed and picturesque views. They’re also great for spaces that require increased air flow such as kitchens and bathrooms; their 90-degree opening angle ensures maximum ventilation.
Closed, they form a tight seal to minimize air leakage and drafts that cause heating and cooling costs to decrease, as well as drafts which increase heating/cooling bills. They are also popularly known for providing increased security as their lack of vertical sash makes it harder for burglars to gain entry through them.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows (commonly known as Yorkshire sash windows) have long been revered for their sleek, modern appearance. Operating this type of window involves one fixed pane and one movable one which glides horizontally along an easy mechanism.
Due to their minimalist frame design, sliding windows provide unimpeded views of scenic outdoor settings – perfect for open concept homes where living room and kitchen seamlessly flow out into an outdoor area.
These windows are also easier to open and close than double-hung ones, making them an excellent choice for hard-to-reach spaces such as above the kitchen sink. Unfortunately, due to their design they may not seal as effectively causing drafts and higher energy bills.
