Windows - More Than a Room with a View
Infuse your home with the beauty and warmth of natural light, and brighten small and large spaces alike. Windows can enhance the ambience of a room and play a crucial role in maintaining an energy-efficient home. The tighter seals and more advanced construction of many modern windows prevent cold and hot air from escaping and help maintain a more comfortable, consistent indoor climate without wasting energy. New windows can breathe new life into older homes by providing an updated look that is both smart and attractive.
Window Styles
Some of the more commonly used types of windows are awning, double-hung, casement, sliding, picture, bay/bow, fixed and storm. Each has different characteristics and, in many cases, opens in a different manner. Determine what style is most appropriate for the room where it will be installed.
Awning
Horizontal window that opens outward, usually using a crank handle.
Double-Hung
Traditional style window that opens by raising the lower half or lowering the upper half.
Casement
Vertical window that opens outward and may feature locks on both the upper and lower parts. Often opened with a crank handle.
Sliding
A pair of windows that slide side-to-side rather than opening outward or upward.
Bay/Bow
Series of three or more windows that juts outward from the house. The central window may be fixed while the side windows are typically double-hung or casement.
Fixed
Available in many shapes and sizes and cannot be opened.
Picture
Large, fixed windows that cannot be opened.
Choose from a wide selection of in-stock and special order windows at The Home Depot.
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| Window Styles |
Uses and Ideal Installation |
| Awning |
- Provide ventilation even during rain
- Provide ample light
- Often installed above doors or other windows
|
| Bay/Bow |
- Provide ample light
- Offer a wider viewing angle
- Add style to architecture
- Make rooms appear more spacious
- Ideal for use when creating a breakfast nook or in a master bedroom
|
| Casement |
- Provide ample light
- Offer a large viewing area
- Ideal for difficult-to-reach areas, such as over a sink or countertop
|
| Double-Hung |
- Take up little space
- Ideal for installing next to patios or porches
- Frames can be used to complement home décor
|
| Fixed |
- Used for a variety of purposes from picture windows to small, decorative windows
- Do not provide ventilation
|
| Sliding |
- Offer a contemporary look
- Ideal for installation near outdoor living areas
|
| Picture |
- Provide ample light
- Allow for a wide viewing area
- Do not provide ventilation
|
Window Materials
Window frames may be made from a number of different materials, including wood, clad wood, vinyl, aluminum and fibreglass.
Wood
The timeless beauty and charm of wood windows appeal to any consumers. As a natural insulator, wood is resistant to temperature extremes and less prone to condensation. Wood window frames generally come unfinished, but can be painted or stained to match your décor. To prevent rotting, regular maintenance is required.
Clad Wood
Clad wood windows combine the natural elegance of an interior wood frame with the durability and virtually maintenance-free benefits of either a vinyl or aluminum covering on the exterior.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are generally the least expensive of all windows, but provide exceptional energy efficiency. These durable vinyl window frames are available in an array of colours and are resistant to impact and corrosion.
Aluminum
Aluminum window frames are incredibly durable, lightweight and virtually maintenance-free. They are also effective in reducing condensation but are poor insulators.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass windows are relatively new and are generally the most expensive of all windows. They are highly energy-efficient, extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.
Maintenance Tips
- Ensure your house is well-ventilated to help prevent the buildup of condensation on windows
- Use glass cleaners to remove spots from windows
- Avoid hitting windows with high-pressure streams of water, as they may break
- Clean frames with cleansers that are only mildly abrasive
Energy Efficiency of Windows
Save money on your heating and cooling bills with Energy Star qualified windows. The two most important factors when considering energy-efficient windows are U-value and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). U-value measures how well a window prevents heat from entering your home, and SHGC measures how much heat from sunlight passes through windows. The lower their values, the more effective the window is at resisting heat transfer.
- Double- and triple-pane windows are more energy efficient than single-pane windows and may reduce outside noise
- Low-E glass coatings reflect both infrared and ultraviolet light; this helps to reduce heat transfer and prevent furnishings from fading
- Argon and krypton gas-filled panes are better insulated than those filled with air
Features
Skylights and Roof Windows
In addition to conventional windows, another way to add light and create the appearance of space in your home is with the addition of a skylight or roof window.
Stained Glass
If you wish to add a unique element of beauty to your home, you may want to consider installing a stained glass window. The designs and patterns from which you can choose are virtually unlimited, allowing you to select a window that suits your décor and personal style.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is essential to maintaining a high level of energy efficiency. It acts as a seal to prevent drafts and reduce heat loss in the winter, and helps to retain air conditioning in the summer. Make sure the windows you purchase provide high-quality weatherstripping.
To increase energy efficiency of older windows, cover them with shrink film weatherstripping or add foam tape weatherstripping inside the window frames.
Screens
Having the windows open is ideal when the weather is nice, but chasing bugs around the house with a flyswatter is not. Screens allow you to enjoy a refreshing spring breeze without having to worry about the buzz of insects interrupting your relaxation.
