A wide range of window types and designs are available to homeowners today, and each variation serves a particular purpose. The types of windows that you choose for your home will largely determine the amount of natural light and airflow that will be able to pass through. Check out this basic guide to help you choose the best types of windows to buy for your home.
Below are 8 types of windows to consider for more natural light & ventilation:
1). Double Hung Windows
Double hung windows are a very common window type in homes today. This window design comes with an upper and lower sash which can both be shifted down and up, respectively. With two operating sashes, there is no shortage of airflow or light.
Double hung windows are available in different sizes and work with different frame materials including aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl, and wood. Double Hung windows will cost between $400 to $650 per window, depending on the manufacturer and material choice.
2). Single Hung Window
A cheaper alternative to a double hung window, single hung windows operate as the name suggests. This type of window only allows the movement of the a single lower sash while the upper one is permanently stationary. The lower stash moves upwards, covering the top stash partially.
Single hung windows are compatible with vinyl, aluminum, or wooden frames. This window style is ideal for letting in extra sunlight and air while still remaining budget-friendly. Their cost may range from $170 to $360 a window.
3). Garden Window
Garden windows are great for homeowners who want to increase natural lighting while creating a convenient space to display and grow plants. This type of window creates a small greenhouse that protrudes from the house.
Forming a glass box, a garden window provides ample sunlight for plants to thrive, and depending on the manufacturer, garden windows can have a foldable crank to allow for some airflow. Garden windows are a great addition for the kitchen or the dining areas. This type of window will cost between $1,000 to $4,000 to install depending on the size and material choice.
4). Bay Window
Bay windows, or bow windows, are created by combining three or more windows set at an angle to extend beyond the wall. Similar to garden windows, bay widows can provide an extra space to display house plants, and if constructed with enough space, homeowners can create additional seating or a cozy reading corner.
The middle window is often stationary, while the two side windows can be casement, double-hung, or single-hung. Often installed in the dining area or the living room, bay windows are one of the best options for homeowners looking for more natural light, visibility, and airflow.
5). Skylight Window
Similar to the effects of mirrors, skylight windows can change the entire feel of your home by opening up the room and allowing significantly more natural light to pass through during the day. Installed in the roof, homeowners can also get a view of the night sky, a storm that’s brewing, and whatever else the upward portion of the outdoors has to offer.
This type of window is common in vacation houses, but are becoming more popular in residential homes. When purchasing a skylight window, homeowners can choose between glass or plastic. Depending on the manufacturer, some skylight windows can be opened to allow for ventilation.
6). Casement Window
Casement windows are hinged on the side and crank open outwards to the left or right allowing for ventilation through the entire window. They are energy efficient, which makes them ideal when looking to lower your energy bills.
Casement windows are a great option for areas where it may be difficult to push the window sash upwards such as above the kitchen sink. Most commonly, this type of window is installed in pairs, one for the right and another for the left. In terms of cost, homeowners can expect to pay between $270 to $750 per installation depending on material choice and manufacturer.
7). Hopper Window
A hopper window is usually small and opens either downwards or upwards, depending on the make. Similar to casement windows, hopper windows are opened with a turning crank, but the difference between the two types is the direction in which the window opens. Hopper windows are typically seen in basements to provide some natural lighting to dark areas. The seal on this type of window is stronger than average since it is typically installed underground. Because they open inwards, cleaning is simple and easy. The average installation cost for this window type is $265 and above per window.
8). Sliding Window
A sliding window typically has two glass panels that can either slide to the left or right. Often times there are three tracks, the third being occupied by a screen.Sliding windows are made up of less parts than most other types which results in a simpler, less-expensive installation. With less moving parts, sliding windows are very durable and low maintenance. Homeowners can expect to spend between $320-$1,300 to install a sliding window.
Whether you are looking for more natural light, ventilation, or visibility, the options available for windows today are in no shortage. The windows that we covered in this guide are the most common types, but homeowners can choose from hundreds of designs and functions. For more ideas and inspiration for your window installation, chat with a professional from our team! We are here to help with all things related to residential and commercial construction.
Questions about home renovations or repairs? Give our office a call or send us a message to schedule a free on-site estimate. J.G?s Home Improvement is licensed in the state of West Virginia. We have proudly served the eastern panhandle for over 20 years! Located in Charles Town, our team is always available to respond quickly and reliably.