Popular Window Styles: Pros and Cons
Are you dreaming about replacing your windows but are confused about all the different window styles?
There are many aspects to choosing new windows for your house or business. You want to make sure they are the right style, fit, and functionality. Additionally, there are hundreds of options out there.
Which frame material do you choose? How about glazing or energy efficiency?
If you don’t know what is out there and what to look for, you might feel overwhelmed with making this choice.
Pros and Cons of Popular Window Styles
Let’s explore several of the most popular window styles and what they have to offer.
Double-Hung Windows (with or without muntins)
Double hung windows are the kind most people are familiar with. They don’t open in or out; they slide up and down from the bottom or the top.
In old houses, the frames are made of wood, and the windows are counterbalanced by a weight and pulley system in the wall.
Unless that system is broken, as many of them are, the window either sticks or slams shut suddenly.
However, in modern windows, muntins – or the illusion of muntins – may be added with strips of framing material. Moreover, these strips or grids make it appear as though the windows are made of individual small panes of glass.
Pros:
- It’s a trendy style, so you have many options.
- Reasonable price.
- Easy to open and stays cleaner.
Cons:
- The large opening can pose a break-in hazard and safety hazard for children if your windows are low enough for them to reach.
- The counterbalance system does break over time if your windows are old.
Casement Windows
Effective at harnessing cool breezes to cut down on the need for air conditioning, casement windows crank outward on hinges.
In addition, casement windows can be effective at harnessing cool breezes to cut down on the need for air conditioning.
Pros:
- Better at keeping out drafts since the seal is very tight.
- Better at directing cool air.
- More secure against intruders.
Cons:
- Prone to break in strong winds if left all the way open.
- Mechanical cranks have a high failure rate.
- Can’t qualify as egress windows unless they are substantial.
Sliding Windows
Instead of sliding up and down using a pulley or spring mechanism, slider windows slide horizontally.
This style is popular in mid-century modern homes. They are often installed in hard to reach places including laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Pros:
- There is no crank or other mechanism in slider windows, so they can last a long time.
- Since they are so simple, slider windows tend to be the cheapest.
Cons:
- Even though many people own midcentury homes, they often opt for double hung windows as replacements because slider windows tend to look dated and to be disliked.
- Slider tracks fill with dirt and need frequent cleaning.
- Not as many styles and shapes to choose from.
Fixed Windows
A fixed window is one that doesn’t move in any direction.
A picture window is a feature in many homes built in the mid 20th century.
In addition, fixed windows are a staple of modern architecture.
Pros:
- Permanent sealing makes fixed windows more energy efficient than other styles.
- Fixed windows are cheaper than different styles.
Cons:
- They can’t be opened.
- Fixed windows can contribute to overheating in sunnier climates.
Bringing it Home
With each of these window styles, you will still have many framing material options to choose from, as well as glazing and energy efficiency.
Do you live in Southeast Michigan and have questions about these popular window styles? If you are interested in new windows for your home, please give us a call. We would be honored to help!
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