Types of Residential Windows

Windows are an essential part of any great home design. They add indoor and outdoor appeal both with their looks and numerous benefits. However, you may be surprised to learn that there are quite a few different types of residential windows to choose from! Each one has a different appearance as well as various pros and cons. Depending on your preference and home layout, you can mix and match them to create the perfect space.

The Most Common Types of Residential Windows

Casement Windows. When you think casement, think crank, as these windows must be cranked open. Thankfully, casement windows have come a long way and most modern ones are effortless to use. Available in a range of sizes, shapes, and with left or right-side hinge placements; there’s a casement window to fit any room. They provide excellent ventilation and plenty of unimpeded natural light.

Single or Double Hung Windows. Another popular residential window option, single and double-hung windows refer to a window with two sashes. Sashes, or the part of the window holding the glass panes, are stacked on top of one another. In a double-hung window, both the bottom and top sash slide open. A single hung window consists of only a sliding bottom sash. Unlike casement windows, these windows will have a bar or slat of trim in the middle where the sashes meet. Nevertheless, they are easy to open for airflow and provide adequate light.

Bay Windows. Bay windows are usually composed of multiple casement, double-hung, or picture windows; as it’s the shape of the home and not the shape of the trim or glass panes that define a bay window. Bay windows refer to the architectural design of a home in which the windows protrude outwards, giving you more floor space and a more sweeping view. They can be used in almost any room in your home but are most common in living rooms.

Picture Windows. Picture windows are, as the name implies, large, grand windows that offer a lovely view of the outdoors. Because they cannot open or close, there are no sashes or hinges to contend with; meaning their expansive windowpanes truly invite the outside in. You can choose a floor-to-ceiling window to let in the most natural light possible, or a slightly smaller option. Keep in mind though, picture windows are always bigger than your standard window size.

Slider Windows. Commonplace in modern homes, slider windows move left and right by sliding along a track. Usually, these windows are seen in sliding doors but are available in smaller sizes too.

Transom Windows. The advantages of this decorative window are twofold; they let in more light while adding interest to your home with their unique shapes and designs. Transom windows are usually stationary and cannot be opened. They are always positioned directly above another window. Though there is a wide variety of transom windows available, they most commonly appear as semi-circles.

Awning Windows. These windows are similar to transom windows in that typically they sit atop another window. However, they open and close from a hinge at the top, much like an outdoor awning. Sought after for their ability to increase ventilation, sometimes awning windows are used in attic spaces or other enclosed areas.

Whether you’re looking for replacement windows or trying to pick options for a new build, knowing your window types and their advantages will help you make the most of your home design.