Types of Window Styles for Houses

Whether you are replacing old windows in your home, or deciding on windows for a new house, you have options when it comes to what is available. Although most windows serve the purpose of letting light into a room and providing a view of the outdoors, their difference can be significant. Before making your choice of window style, it is important to recognize the different styles you can choose for your home.

• Bay windows - This window type extends outward, making a room appear larger. Bay windows consist of three different windows - one in the center and two that are slightly angled in toward the room. This type of window is very stylish and allows a great deal of light into the room that they are situated in.


• Sliding windows - The sash of the sliding, or gliding window slides horizontally, one past the other. These types of windows can be found in modern bedrooms. They can be either single sliders where only one sash opens or double sliders that allow both sashes to open. They work well in rooms that require good circulation, such as kitchens for example.


• Picture windows - Like the name implies, picture windows give an uninterrupted "picture" view of the outdoors. They are generally large windows that are stationary and do not open to allow ventilation.


• Casement windows - This type of window is attached to one side using a hinge. A crank is used to open the window, which swings outward. This type of window allows for superior ventilation


• Single or double hung windows - Single-hung windows open up vertically by sliding the bottom sash upward. They are relatively small windows and are often found in bedrooms, bathrooms or other areas where larger windows are not ideal. With the double-hung, the windows open by sliding either the top or the bottom hash. They may be slightly larger than single-hung windows. Both are often found in smaller spaces, where larger windows are not ideal, such as bathrooms or bedrooms.