Windows bring sunlight, beautiful views, the feel of spaciousness, and a fresh breeze. There are many styles and types of windows to choose from and the choice usually comes down to functionality and appearance. MW uses Pella windows in all of their construction projects and stands by their durability and efficiency. Below are several types and styles of windows to give you a better idea of what the use of each is. Also visit www.pella.com to see their variety.
Window Types
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are made in the same way as other windows but with polyvinyl chloride around the frame instead. They are easy to maintain, durable, and energy efficient. There are many types of vinyl windows, such as sliding windows, picture windows, casement windows and much more. Vinyl windows will not rust, rot, corrode, crack and are resistant to termites. Vinyl windows are very easy to care for, never need painting or staining and only need cleaned occasionally. The cost of vinyl windows are priced similar to, and often cheaper than, other types of windows, making them an affordable choice in windows.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are very durable, can last for many years and have many aesthetic qualities. They make great insulators as well, helping you cut down on energy consumption. Fiberglass windows come in just about any size, shape and style. Sometimes, these windows will offer you even more options than the common vinyl window, and they can be easily painted giving you room to be creative. The price of the fiberglass window has been decreasing and is now almost the same as the cost of a vinyl or wood window. A well-manufactured fiberglass window has great strength compared to other types of windows, 8 times stronger than vinyl. Fiberglass is so strong that it can withstand extreme temperatures from summer heat to winter cold. During the manufacturing process, small air bubbles are trapped within the sheets of fiberglass and will help trap heat inside, making it efficient at insulating. This mean your home will be taking in less heat in the summer months, saving on air conditioning bills. Conversely, during winter months homes will stay warmer without needing too much central heat.
Wood Casement
Wood windows provide better insulation than other types of windows which makes them an excellent choice for the home. Easily shaped into an array of different designs suitable to your choice, is the reason why wood is a traditional choice for window material. The disadvantage to choosing a wood window is the fact that because it is so easily shaped into each individual persons liking to suit specific tastes, these windows are often more expensive than those made from other materials.
Metal
Metal window can be made of many different mediums including aluminum, bronze, stainless steel, and steel.
Window Styles
Sliders
Pictured Here: Double Slider
A slider window is made up of two pieces: sometimes one piece is stationary, and the other moves left or right in a track. In other cases both pieces can slide independantley of eachother creating a 'double slider'. Screens can be placed on the exterior or interior of the window. These style of windows are also commonly reffered to as "gliders" and are the most common window style. Sliding patio doors can also be categorized as a 'slider' window, just on a much larger scale.
Awnings
Awning windows open outward and are hinged at the top. The main function and purpose of an awning window is to provide vetilation without letting in rain or snow etc. Awning windows are commonly used in basements and can be used alone or in in combination with other awning windows, other types of windows, or above doors.
Casement
A casement window, is a window that is attached to its frame by one or more hinges. Some casement windows can be hinged at the top or bottom but most commonly come hinged at the side. Casement windows can be singles or in pairs. If used in pairs, both windows are within a common frame and hinged from the outside. These types of windows are opened using a cam handle, lever, or crank that is placed at the bottom and double as a window lock. Casement windows require a friction hinge, stay, or crank, to hold the window steady despite the wind when the window is opened outward.
Single/Double Hung
Pictured Here: Single Hung Window
This is the most popular type of window in the US. This window is comprised of two parts (sashes) that overlap slightly and, within the frame, can slide up and down. Today double-hung sash windows, in order to support the sashes, use spring balances, or counterweights held in boxes either side of the window. Sash windows are fitted with simplex hinges to allow the window to be locked into hinges on one side, while a rope on the other is detached, allowing the window to be opened for cleaning or escape.
Bay Window
A bay window projects outward from the wall, most commonly in the shape of a square where 90, 135, and 150 degree angles on the inside are most common. Often associated with Victorian architecture, bay windows can help give the illusion of a larger room, increase flow of natural light, and provide a view of the outside that cannot be seen with an ordinary window.
Picture Window or 'Fixed'
Just like a framing a picture, picture windows or 'fixed' windows, are meant to provide an unobscured view. A Picture window is a very large fixed window in a wall, typically without glazing bars, or glazed with only perfunctory glazing bars near the edge of the window.
These windows are stationary and do not open or operate and can be any size.
Bow Window
A bow window, is a curved bay window. Bow windows are designed to create the same elements as a bay window such as more space, light, and view.
A bow window is typically made up of four or more casement windows brought together to form an arch.
Clerestory or Transom
These windows are small and horizontal used in groups of 3 or more that allow more sunlight into the room without providing a view. They are located high on a wall above eye level and just below the roofline. Most commonly, these windows are installed above a picture window.
Egress or Emergency Exit
When intalling egress windows, digging around the foundation is necessary. Egress windows are large and low, so that occupants can escape in an emergency. Brick, wood, or metal are used in typical installations. In many building codes, exact specifications are given for 'bedroom' emergency windows in the US.
Glass Block Windows
Constructed from small glass block pieces, glass block windows come in many styles and sizes and are generally found in (2) typical places: The Bathroom, to provide natural light but keeping an obstructed view, or in a Basement, where a 'hopper window' once was.
Hoppers
Hopper windows open inward and are hinged at the bottom. Many of the most popular places you will find Hopper windows are commercial, such as bars or restaurants etc., or in residential applications where a window that opened outward would not work because of space restrictions, clearance or security grills. Hoppers are popular as basement windows because they offer ventilation and are energy efficient.
Palladian
This type of window is divided into three parts. The two side sections are smaller than the center section which is arched. Many classical style buildings including Renaissance architecture, have Palladian windows. Normally this type of window is used as the focal point in a room.
