Types of Windows
Windows
A window isn't just meant to bring light and views to a room. It may
also define a room's shape, provide an architectural focal point, allow
ventilation or provide for emergency escape. To serve widely varying
needs, windows are made in a vast array of types and sizes that operate
and function differently.
Broadly speaking, windows are either fixed or operable. Fixed windows
are used mostly for accents or where light and views-but not
ventilation-are important. Most round-top, triangular and other
unusually-shaped windows are fixed, as are large picture windows.
Operable windows may slide up, down or sideways or they may hinge
outward or inward. The windows shown represent most major types.
Contemporary windows are available in a number of innovative styles.
You can buy a bent-glass corner window, curved-glass windows or
casements with no center stile, for example. Some beautiful bow and bay
windows, made-up by combining fixed and operable units, are also common.
The double-hung window, classic in appearance, offers excellent control
of ventilation. You can raise the lower sash or lower the upper one. A
single-hung window is similar but only the lower sash opens.
A casement window is hinged on one side and swings out when you turn a
crank (some are inward-swinging). Because it opens fully, it affords
good ventilation and is easy to clean.
A slider offers a contemporary appearance. It's made from two separate
sashes-one is fixed, the other slides in a track. Half opens for
ventilation. A slider is easy to operate and most types are
particularly weather-tight.
An awning window hinges at the top and tilts out at the bottom,
providing partial ventilation. These are often used above doors or
other windows.
Jalousie or "louvered" windows are excellent for ventilation but poor insulators-they leak a great deal of air.
A hopper window hinges at the bottom. A hopper is normally used for
ventilation above a door or window, where protected by eaves.
The tilt-turn is a fairly new type of window. It tilts out for
ventilation but also can be opened fully for cleaning or as an
emergency escape.
Round-top and other geometrically-shaped windows are used as architectural accents.
A bow window is made from several windows positioned side-by-side to
create an arcing form. Similar to a bay window, it provides drama in a
room.
A seamless bent-glass corner window is a fairly new product that offers unobstructed views at the corner of a house.
The bay window, made from a central sash and two angled side sashes, is
a classic favorite for expanding a room with light, views and drama.
Angled side windows are often operable casements or double-hung windows.
Glass block is a light-allowing alternative to conventional windows,
used both in exterior and interior walls. Various patterns allow
varying degrees of view or privacy. Typical sizes are 6, 8 and 12-inch
squares and 4 by 8 and 6 by 8 rectangles made for 4-inch-thick walls
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David Valente
www.davidvalente.com
Prudential Sussex Realty
Committed Service. Real Estate Sales.
Valente Real Estate North Vancouver. Real Estate West Vancouver. Real Estate Downtown Vancouver. Real Estate in the Lower Mainland. Buy and Sell Real Estate. Dave Valente