Did you know that the right types of windows selection can significantly impact your building’s appeal and energy bills?
Windows plays an important role in shaping the ambiance and functionality of any building. The correct choice of windows not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to saving you energy bills, ensuring overall comfort.
As the designing of homes and buildings has evolved, so has the rand of window options. But choosing the correct one that suits your space can be crucial as you have to consider the ventilation, natural light opening, functionality, resistance to calamities, and many other things along with just the look. In this comprehensive guide, we are shedding light on the 10 types of windows that stand out as optimal choices for modern housing.
Different Types Of Windows Used In Building
When choosing the right windows for your building, usability, functionality, and strategic placement are key. Here are the top 10 different kinds of windows that can be best used in buildings.
Fixed Windows
Fixed windows are common in the list of modern windows that serve as a steadfast option for those seeking simplicity and unobstructed natural light. These windows are permanently fixed to the walls and do not have any opening or closing options.
These are typically designed to illuminate spaces, with fully glazed shutters that are securely attached to window frames, ensuring durability, weather resistance, and security.
This type of window is a practical choice when the primary goal is to just welcome sunlight into the room and not ventilation.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows offer dynamic solutions with movable shutters within the metal frame. The versatility lies in the option for either horizontal or vertical movement, providing flexibility based on specific requirements. It has a roller bearing facilitating the smooth sliding motion of the shutters.
This windows type finds practical applications in various setting systems, such as offices, bank counters, residential homes, skylights, kitchens, and spaces where efficient space utilization and ease of operation are needed.
Sliding windows usually have glass bodies that provide ample amount of sunlight exposure along with effective control of the flow of breeze.
Pivot Window
Pivot windows introduce a distinctive design with pivots integrated into the window steel frames, allowing for the oscillation of shutters. Unlike other types, these windows don’t necessarily rebate for the frame.
The swinging motion can occur either horizontally or vertically, depending on the placement of the pivots. The design provides a unique and efficient way to control ventilation and lighting in space, offering a practical solution for those seeking a balance between functionality and aesthetics.
Small pivot windows are usually used in bathrooms and small spaces; however, using these smartly in your building can be a game changer.
Double Hung Window
Double-hung windows present a classic and practical design, featuring a pair of shutters attached to a single frame. These shutters are arranged vertically, allowing for versatile sliding motion within the frame.
These windows can open either the top or bottom shutters to your desired level, offering flexibility in ventilation and light control. Operating double-hung windows involves a chain of cord mechanism with metal weights connected over a pulley.
By pulling the weight or cord, the shutters move vertically, enabling you to secure the windows at your preferred position, whether for optimal ventilation or maximum natural light in the room.
Corner Window
Corner windows, as the name suggests, are strategically placed at the corner of a room, offering two faces in perpendicular directions. This unique positioning allows for the infusion of light and air from two distinct angles.
Special lintels are integrated into the walls to accommodate this type of window, ensuring structural integrity. Beyond their functional benefits, corner windows contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a building, providing a visually pleasing and distinctive touch to the architectural design.
You can install various windows like fixed windows, sliding windows as corner windows, and a more functional window option.
Bay Window
Bay windows are architectural features that can be projected as exterior windows, creating an extended opening that allows for increased ventilation and natural light. You can choose these projecting windows in different shapes like triangular, rectangular, or polygonal, adding diversity to their aesthetic appeal.
The unique design of wood bay windows not only enhances the structural dimension of a building but also provides a beautiful and eye-catching appearance. Beyond their functional benefits, bay windows contribute to the overall charm and character of a structure, making them a popular choice for those seeking both practicality and visual allure.
Clerestory Windows
Clerestory windows are the windows serving a specific architectural purpose when a building has varying ceiling heights. These windows are strategically placed in rooms with higher ceilings, allowing for a unique design element.
The shutters of clerestory windows can swing open with the assistance of cords and pulleys, providing a practical means of ventilation. Beyond functionality, the addition of clerestory windows contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of a building, enhancing its beauty while ensuring efficient airflow in spaces with different ceiling heights.
Skylights
Skylights, which are often placed on the top of sloped roofs, are designed to introduce natural light into the rooms. These are mostly interior types of windows positioned parallel to the sloping surface; skylights offer a unique way to brighten up buildings.
The flexibility of skylights allows them to be opened when desired, providing control over ventilation and sunlight exposure. To ensure waterproofing, lead gutters are strategically arranged around the frame of the skylight, adding a practical layer of protection.
The inclusion of skylights not only enhances the overall illumination of a space but also adds versatility by allowing occupants to regulate both light and airflow as needed.
Casement Windows
Casement windows stand out as one of the most prevalent and versatile window options. These windows are hinged at the side, either as a single shutter or as a pair within a shared frame. Casement windows offer flexibility with panels that can be glazed, non-glazed, or partially glazed, catering to various preferences and needs.
In instances of double-shuttered casement windows, the outer shutters may feature wired gauged panels, serving the dual purpose of providing ventilation while keeping flies at bay. The adaptability and functionality of casement windows make them a popular choice for a wide range of architectural settings.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are one the casement types of windows that are distinguished by fully glazed panels. These comprise top, bottom, and intermediate rails. The space between these rails is subdivided into smaller panels using timber members known as sash bars or glazing bars.
Sash windows provide a sleek appearance but also allow for flexibility in customizing the size and layout of the individual glass panels. Sash windows combine aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, making them a popular choice for those seeking a classic yet functional window option.
How Do You Choose the Correct Types of Windows for A Building?
Selecting the right types of windows for your building involves a thought process that involves various factors to consider; here are some of them to help you make a well-informed decision.
Locations of Room
The location and orientation of a room within a building play a crucial role in affecting the amount of sunlight and prevailing winds. South-facing rooms, for example, receive more direct sunlight; go for windows and doors installation that gives you a balance of light and temperature.
Size Of Room
The dimensions of the room also directly impact the choice of windows, as a large room may require expansive picture windows, providing you with panoramic views and ample natural light. In contrast, residential homes with small rooms may require windows that are strategically places according to the space and functionality.
Direction of wind
Before you choose the placement and types of windows it is crucial to understand the prevailing wind direction for good ventilation and indoor comfort. Offices are usually built in a crowded place with very little scope of air circulation; however, some windows types may help you capture breezes effectively if chosen smartly.
Climatic Conditions
The climate of a region significantly influences the choice of windows. In colder climates, double-glazed windows with excellent insulation properties are great options for exterior windows, while for warmer climates, choose a window that promotes cross-ventilation and minimizes heat gain.
Utility of Room
Different rooms serve distinct purposes, and you must choose a window that complements their utility. For offices, consider windows offering security and sound insulation, whereas for bedrooms, ensure privacy and ventilation. For cubicles, you may look for fixed interior windows, while for homes the open option serves the best.
Architectural Point of View
Windows styles impacts our daily lifestyle in several ways. Windows should seamlessly integrate with the building’s aesthetic, contributing to its visual appeal. Consider the architectural style, color scheme, material, and overall design while windows replacement option to bring maximum harmony to your space.
Conclusion
Choosing the right types of windows is not an easy task for everyone. Whether you’re a homeowner contemplating a renovation or a property developer seeking the most cost-effective and appealing solution, this blog must have definitely brought you a decision.
Each windows have its own unique advantage; choose the one that not only elevates the visual appeal of your building but also enhances functionality, as it’s not done every day. Explore the possibilities, weigh the statistics, and make an informed decision – because when it comes to windows types, the appeal also affects your mental health and lifestyle.