Choosing the best windows for each room in your house may seem like a daunting task. You want to balance functionality with aesthetics, while still maintaining a cohesive look throughout your home.
With so many window types to choose from, this simple guidance will help make your decision easier.
When thinking about kitchen windows, the area above the kitchen sink is usually the first space that comes to mind. Casement windows are a good choice for this space, as they’re easy to operate with the simple turn of a handle. Combine multiple casement windows together, and depending on the selections you make, you can catch fresh breezes from multiple directions.
Double-hung windows are another great solution for kitchens as they allow fresh air in through the bottom sash, while allowing warmer air to escape through the upper sash. They do require a bit more effort to open though, so keep that in mind when thinking about placement.
If you’re looking to create the perfect space for an herb garden, plants or to display other items above your kitchen sink, a 90-degree box bay configuration is a good option. With a picture window in the center and a casement window on either side you can achieve the look of a garden window. This window style allows for year-round sunlight. Because two of the three sides open, these windows make it easy to allow fresh air indoors no matter the season.
And if you’re looking for a more contemporary look, consider adding awning and picture windows underneath your cabinets, replacing a traditional tile backsplash. You’ll get more light in unexpected places and create a greater connection to the outdoors.
A new option for kitchens is the pass-through window. This sliding window lets you easily pass food, drinks and more through your window to an outdoor deck or patio, making an indoor/outdoor lifestyle more seamless.
When considering bathroom windows, it’s important to think about where you live and where your bathroom is located. Most people live in neighborhoods, with neighboring houses close-by, and are therefore looking for privacy.
Awning windows placed higher up on the wall are the most practical solution. They allow light and ventilation while giving you the privacy you need. Casement and double-hung windows are also good options to consider, just be cautious when considering the placement and height of the product to help maintain the privacy you’re looking for. All of these window types provide great ventilation, allowing fresh air to enter and humid air created when bathing or showering to escape.
Regardless of the window type you choose, we offer a variety of privacy glass options. These patterned glass options obscure the view in and out of your windows. They offer excellent privacy while still allowing for ample amounts of light.
Depending on where you live, privacy may be less of a concern. In this case, opt for a large picture window or window combination to create a bold and dramatic statement.
Selecting windows for lower levels like basements present a unique challenge as most building codes require livable spaces in basements, like bedrooms and family rooms, to include a window to meet egress requirements. This simply means that the window needs to meet specific size dimensions to enable escape during an emergency, like a fire.
Casement and sliding windows are typically the best options to meet egress requirements. Depending on the size and placement of your window, some double-hung windows may also meet these requirements. Egress requirements apply to both new construction and replacement projects, and can vary by state and region, so it’s important to check with your local building code officials for requirements in your area.
When choosing windows for living rooms, family rooms and bedrooms, there is a lot more flexibility. Consider how you plan to use the windows and what, if any, furniture will be placed near them.
Casement windows, either individually or grouped together are a great solution. You’ll get full length ventilation with less glass obstruction, plus they are easy to operate. Consider combining casement windows with awning and picture windows to create dramatic window combinations.
For more of a traditional look, choose double-hung windows, either individually or combined. A great alternative to double-hung windows are sliding windows. Sliding or gliding windows are similar to double-hung windows, but instead of the sash moving up and down, the sash moves side to side. Both window options provide great ventilation and excellent performance.
Whatever window type you choose for your room renovation or new build, know that we stand behind every product.
Our products perform day-after-day and year-after-year, allowing us to offer you some of the best warranties in the industry, giving you ultimate peace of mind.
