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Types of Residential Windows

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There are many things to consider when choosing new or replacement windows for your home.

Residential windows vary in construction, how they open, function, and level of maintenance required. The following is a brief description of different types of residential windows:

• Casement windows are hinged at the sides. They have a crank-out mechanism for opening and closing and when fully opened, offer the maximum amount of ventilation.

• Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward. They are designed to provide ventilation without letting in rain, etc.  Awning windows can be used alone (commonly used in basements), or in vertical or horizontal groups in combination with additional awning windows, other types of windows, or above doors.

• Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open inward. Hopper windows are popular in commercial buildings such as restaurants or bars, etc., or in residential applications where an open-out window would not work because of clearance, space restrictions, security grills, etc.

• Sliding Window or Slider: A sliding window unit consists of two sashes: one that's stationary, one that slides left or right in a track. Screens can be placed on the exterior or interior of the window unit.

• Double-hung windows have top and bottom sashes (the sliding sections of the window) and can be opened by pulling up the lower sashes or pulling down the upper sash. Only the bottom sash slides upward in a single-hung window.

• Bay/Bow windows: Bay or bow windows extend out away from your home and typically give the appearance of more room space. A bay window is made up of three or more windows.  A bow window forms more of a curved shape and a bay window consists of varying angles. The window combinations that create these windows can consist of casement, double hung and fixed and operating windows.

• Arch Top windows: An arch top window is commonly used as a decorative accent alone or positioned over a window or door unit.

• Picture windows: A picture window is a fixed pane of glass that does not open or close. The shape and size are custom-made for your needs.

Tips for choosing windows for your home

• Select windows that complement your home's style. For instance, choose windows with wood interiors that match your cabinetry, flooring, and other interior elements.

• Determine the level of maintenance required for your windows by talking to an expert at Modern Glass. We can help you determine what makes sense for your climate and long-term maintenance goals when selecting a window material for your home.

• Think of how you want your home's interior spaces to be illuminated by natural light. Large windows, or combinations of smaller windows or decorative windows can make a big impact on your home.

• Decide if you want custom-made or standard windows. There are many excellent standard window options, but if you have a unique space in your home that requires a custom-made window, it can truly set your home apart.

• You get what you pay for! Beware of companies offering bargains or deals that sound too good to be true. Either these companies are selling poor quality windows, or they may not be in business long enough to help you down the road if maintenance problems occur.

• Keep energy efficiency AND comfort in mind. We can help you choose the right kind of window for your home - whether it's a particular glazing option to reduce glare, or added insulation in cold or hot climates, we can help you make the best decision.

Different types of glass

In addition to window style, there are also many types of glass to choose from depending on what it will be used for:

• Sheet glass

• Float glass (plate)

• Energy efficient glass

• Patterned glass (with color, patterns, etc. for privacy and decoration)

• Tempered glass (or safety glass)

• Laminated glass

• Wired glass

• Mirrors

• Picture frame glass

Commercial Glass

There are many things to consider when choosing glass for your commercial project. As with all of your glass and window needs, Modern Glass can help you make the best decision for your commercial glass project:

• Aesthetics

• Cost

• Energy efficiency

• Air & water tightness

• Structural & acoustical performance

• Human factors (comfort, etc.)

• Environmental impact

The following web site, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Windows and Glazings Program. provides information on windows for commercial buildings.

http://www.commercialwindows.umn.edu/index.php

Visit our Commercial Glass Page