Which Window Style Should I Choose?

If the windows in your home don't function properly, are not providing necessary insulation, or just simply don't look good, you are probably looking to have replacement windows installed. However, with so many options available on the market today, you might find yourself asking "which window styles should I choose?" This can be a difficult decision because there are so many factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right window style for your home. To start narrowing down the options, you'll need to ask yourself the following two questions:

What Functional Purposes Do I Want My Windows to Serve?

When choosing replacement windows, you'll want to think about the functional purpose that they will serve. For example, if you're replacing windows in your kitchen, you might want windows that let in a lot of natural light. But, if you're replacing a window in your living room, too much light might be a bad thing because it could cause a glare on your TV. Also, do you want your windows to provide ventilation? If so, consider placing windows that provide ventilation in areas of your home that receive the most wind. The placement of certain styles of windows can really make a difference in how much enjoyment you'll get out of them, so make sure to think carefully about what you want your windows to do before selecting a style.

Different Window Styles

With so many different window styles out there, you may not know what all of them are, or at least how they function. The following are some of the most common window styles and some details about them:

• Single hung - These windows are constructed with a stationary top sash and open and close straight up from the bottom sash. They are ideal for homeowners who would like to open part of their windows to let a breeze in.
• Double hung - These windows can open from either the top or bottom sash and can also be tilted inward, making it easy to clean them.
• Casement - With hinged sashes that swing open like a door, these windows can be easily opened to let air in. They are usually opened by hand or with a crank and are perfect for areas of the home where ventilation is important.
• Awning - Awning windows are hinged at the top and swing outward, making them perfect for letting in a nice breeze. Plus, because they swing outward, you can keep them open in the rain.
• Garden - These box-shaped windows come with a small shelf and are perfect for displaying small items such as plants.
• Bay - Built with a stationary window in the middle that is bordered by two operable windows, bay windows will flood your home with natural light.
• Bow - Made with four or more windows that are joined together, these beautiful windows extend outwards and will be a focal point of your home.
• Picture - These windows are stationary and have no gridlines or sashes, providing an unobstructed view to the outside and allowing natural light to flood into your home.
• Sliding - Like double hung windows on their side, sliding windows slide open from either side on a horizontal track, similar to a sliding glass door, and are perfect for letting in fresh air.

What Styles Will Blend in With My Home?

While the final decision will always be up to you and you can choose any window style you want, there are some basic window styles that are typically associated with different types of homes. For instance, Cape Cod styles homes typically have vertically proportioned double-hung windows with shutters, whereas an industrial modern style home might have more picture windows in different sizes and shapes.

Expo Home Improvement Can Help You Find the Perfect Window Style for Your Home

At Expo Home Improvement, we have a variety of styles to meet any need. If you're unsure about what style will look best in your home, just give us a call. We will send one of our friendly and knowledgeable experts out to your home to speak with you about your needs, answer any questions that you have, and then recommend the perfect option for you.

To learn more about the replacement window options we have available to homeowners in Austin, San Antonio, and the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as well as throughout Central Texas, contact Expo Home Improvement today.