Did you know that there are many types of home windows?
Your home is made up of various critical components. A good foundation plays a significant role in the durability of a structure and directly determines the building’s strength, stability, and resilience.
A roof’s integral role is to offer structural support and physical protection. Similar to these essential parts of a home, your windows (and the type of window you select) are an incredibly important piece of any building.
Choosing the right windows is a crucial, sometimes overwhelming, part of designing, building, or updating your property. There are seemingly countless window types, styles, and options to fit your commercial or residential property and budget, and each type serves a different purpose.
As mentioned, the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming, especially when you aren’t sure what you are looking for or want. That’s why our professionals have gathered and reviewed 10 of the most popular types of windows to help you know your options and make the best decision for your specific needs.
Continue reading below to learn more about various window
13 common types of home windows
There are many types of windows available on the market, it might feel stressful to know the differences. These various types of window styles serve different purposes; not all windows are created the same. So, here’s our breakdown of 13 of the most common types of home windows:
1. Single-hung windows
Single-hung windows are composed of two panes. The upper portion of the window is fixed, while the bottom part slides up and down to open. The single-hung window is one of the most popular types of window styles among homeowners and looks great on many house styles and elevations.
Single-hung windows come in nearly countless colors, sizes, and grid styles. They are easy to install, versatile, and affordable, making them a fantastic option for homeowners regardless of their budget.
2. Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows are somewhat similar to single-hung; however, both panes slide open. These windows function along a vertical track and can be opened from the top or bottom.
These windows offer a classic look and fit into a wide range of property styles. Double-hung windows have great ventilation and are easy to maintain. This type of window is easy to install and is generally affordable.
3. Awning windows
Awning windows feature hinges at the top, allowing them to open outward. As the name suggests, an open window looks like an awning. These windows are great in any area, but are especially suitable for rainy climates since they can open during a storm, allowing the crisp, fresh air in while protecting your home from the elements.
4. Glass block windows
Glass block windows are a combination of individual glass blocks sealed together with mortar, similar to a stacked brick wall. Many homeowners opt for glass block windows because of the privacy they offer without losing hardly any light.
Block windows were super popular throughout the 1900s, allowing a successful and budget-friendly way to access more light. Glass block windows are often used in areas where privacy is necessary, like a bathroom.
5. Sliding windows
Sliding windows are similar to single-hung windows, except that they operate horizontally. These common windows provide a good amount of ventilation, and other than the lock, no mechanical parts will break.
A sliding window is great for homes because they let in a great amount of light and are easy to operate, maintain, and clean.
6. Casement windows
Casement windows are one of the more popular windows among United States homeowners. A casement window is hinged on one side and swing open, similar to how a door opens. Casement windows are operated with a lever or handle, and a fold-away mechanism called a crank or casement stay that holds the window in an open position even if it’s windy.
Their design makes it easy to control airflow and are made of solid glass, offering an unobstructed view and an abundance of sunlight and fresh air
7. Bay and bow windows
Bow and bay windows are beautiful focal pieces for any home. They allow an abundance of natural light to flood into the space and offer spectacular views of the surroundings.
These types of windows are made up of large panes of glass that protrude from the structure. Bay windows are angled and can either be one window unit with three glass sections or, more simply, a frame with three windows. Bow windows are similar to bay windows, but are typically larger, wider, and in an arc shape or bow.
8. Garden windows
A garden window is an offshoot of a bay window and is practically the same thing. However, the “bay” of a garden window is usually only large enough to hold a potted plant or two.
Garden windows are box-shaped and protrude outward from the wall about 1.5 to two feet. Each surface is glass, which increases the greenhouse effect. The added space of a garden window is the perfect nook to display flowers, herbs, or leafy plants.
9. Picture windows
Picture windows are fixed panes of glass, meaning they do not open. While these windows do not provide airflow, they create an unobstructed view, perfectly “picture” framing the view of your surroundings.
Picture windows are strong and resistant to weather. They come in standard sizes but are also easily customizable to fit your unique shape and size needs.
10. Transom windows
Transom windows are fitted above doors and were originally meant to open to allow air to flow and light to pass from one room to another, even when you shut the doors. They are typically rectangular or semicircular windows placed on top of another window or door in historic properties.
Transom windows are either fixed or operable, but when used on exterior walls, are usually seen as fixed panels. The name comes from the horizontal beam that separates the top of the window or door from the rest of the wall, called a transom.
11. Storm windows
Storm windows are additional windows that are installed over an existing window to improve a home’s energy efficiency and insulation and protect the glass panels in the event of extreme weather. The best type of storm windows come in a removable or permanent option.
A storm window can be fabricated from rigid or flexible plastic or glass. Homeowners can install storm windows on the inside or outside of the existing window, but are typically installed on the exterior portion of the panel.
12. Palladian windows
The Palladian window is named after its inventor, a famous Venetian architect from the 16th century, Andrea Palladio. These windows are beautiful pieces of art and can add a significant amount of interest and character to a building.
The Palladian window is set into three parts: a large arched window in the center and two smaller rectangular windows on either side. They follow the “Palladian motif,” a three-part architectural style popular in the U.K. in the 1600s and 1700s.
13. Skylights and roof windows
Skylights and roof windows are exciting home design features that are utilized to increase the amount of natural light coming into a space. They help open up cramped rooms with vaulted views of the sky and the illusion of more space.
Roof windows open outward, extending from the roof, and are typically installed on sloped or pitched roofs. Skylights are fixed windows, meaning they do not open (except a venting skylight, which opens slightly to help release air pressure), and are usually installed on flat roofs.
Find your favorite types of window styles at Mountain States Windows & Siding
Whether you’re building a new property or updating your current house, the professionals at Mountain States Windows & Siding are here to help you find the types of home windows that are perfect for your property.
There’s no denying that selecting the right type of window for your house might feel stressful and overwhelming. With the Mountain States team, your stresses and concerns go right out the window (see what we did there?).
When you work with Mountain States, you will rest easy knowing you’re receiving high-quality materials, energy-efficient products, and superior customer service. We want to make this home improvement project the best you’ve ever taken on.
Each member on the Mountain States team believes in providing our customers with more than just modern home windows and siding—we are dedicated to ensuring each project runs smoothly from start to completion. With decades of industry experience, we’re ready to take on any home renovation project you have for us (yes, even kitchen and bathroom remodel jobs!).
Our professionals understand that the best windows, regardless of their style, are there to allow in natural light and serve as the focal point of any space. Our team will always go above and beyond to give you the result you want and deserve.
We serve commercial and residential properties in Salt Lake City, Lehi, West Jordan, Orem, Park City, and many neighboring cities across the Wasatch Front and Back. Contact Mountain States Windows & Siding to learn more today.
