Best Windows to Add Outdoor Light to Your Building Projects
An essential part of any home, windows provide warmth, light and ventilation. At the same time, the right windows help define the style of a house, whether it’s traditional, contemporary or a unique design all its own. To meet a growing demand for aesthetically interesting features and energy-efficiency, more and more builders are incorporating the following window styles into their builds.
Corner Windows:
With these architectural designs, wall framing is modified, so the window occupies the corner of a structure. In some cases, the corner post is removed to create an all-glass opening. Great for properties with grand vistas, corner windows also do an incredible job of bringing the outdoors in, even if the view is limited to a simple backyard. In addition to flooding a home with more sunshine, these types of windows create a sense of unity with nature, while providing effective protection from the elements.
Double-Hung Windows:
Able to open wide from either the top or bottom, double-hung windows have a pair of sashes that slide up and down in the frame. Since they remain inside the frame, they do not protrude inside or outside the home.
Casement Windows:
The second most energy-efficient type of window after fixed-pane windows, casement windows offer excellent ventilation. They are also easy to open/close and available in a variety of design options. On the downside, they can’t accept air conditioners or screens. They also come with size limitations, since openings must be strong enough to support the window’s weight.
Awning Windows:
Hinged at the top, these types of windows open outward to create excellent ventilation from three sides. They can be installed below, above or alongside an operating or stationary window. A good choice in damp climates, awning windows offer weather-tight construction, along with an attractive, contemporary look. On the other hand, because they open outward, they aren’t a great choice for high-traffic exterior areas.
Picture Windows:
A large stationary window, picture windows allow for maximum lighting and views of the outdoors. Since they cannot be opened or closed and require no mechanical parts, they tend to be very cost-effective. At the same time, they offer no ventilation and can increase cooling bills in hotter climates.
Transom Windows:
Often installed to let in more light, transom windows are narrow designs mounted above a door or window. They can be stationary or operating windows. They can also be built into spaces where an intricate door meets a transverse architectural element.
Slider Windows:
Most often built into modern- or contemporary-style houses, slider windows glide horizontally along a track. They’re durable, require minimum maintenance, energy-efficient and easy to use. That said, it can be challenging to clean the exterior window, especially during colder months.
Bay or Bow Windows:
Usually protruding out from the exterior siding of the house, bay or bow windows provide more interior space. They are typically built using a combination of windows with one stationary unit in the middle flanked by casements or double-hung windows. These window styles provide great ventilation, along with good versatility. They can also increase the value of a home, while providing panoramic views that allow more light to flow inward. Unique configurations and tight angles can make it difficult to place and install bay window hardware. These windows are also much pricier, and – if the window isn’t well supported – sagging can occur.
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