Types of Replacement Windows

If your home's windows are drafty, rotten, cracked, or leaking, it's time to consider installing replacement windows. Replacement windows are designed to increase energy efficiency, reduce solar heat gain and drafts, lower energy bills, and increase a home's indoor comfort level and outer appearance.

There are numerous types of replacement windows available for homeowners, so the trick is knowing which type of replacement windows is right for your home, climate, and budget. Read below to learn about eight popular types of replacement windows.

Hinged Replacement Windows

Casement Window: Casement windows can add a touch of sophistication and beauty to any home. These windows are hinged at the sides and open outward. They look great, provide a clear, unobstructed view, and are easy to maintain and clean. Replacement casement windows also open and close easily, and, because the window sash and frame meet upon closing, they are extremely energy-efficient with an air-tight seal. Because casement windows open outward, one disadvantage is that they cannot accommodate air conditioner window units.

Awning Windows: Awning windows are hinged at the top of the window and open outward. They have a modern feel, limit air leakage, provide tons of natural light and ventilation, and -- given their design -- can even remain open during a rainstorm. Awning windows can also be placed higher on a wall than other types of windows, which increases privacy without reducing allowed light. Replacement awning windows are affordable and easy to install.

Hopper Windows: Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open into or out from a room. Like casement and awning windows, they provide an air-tight seal and allow very little air leakage. One disadvantage of hopper windows is that they provide less privacy, especially if installed at or below ground level. And because they are hinged at the bottom and open at the top, leaving them open during a rainstorm could result in significant water damage.

Angled or Curved Replacement Windows

Bay Windows: Bay windows consist of three windows that extend outward from a house. The center window is flat and parallel to the wall, and the side windows angle back towards the home. This "angled" design helps to increase a room's indoor square footage and usable space, allows for more of a view, and makes a home brighter by letting in more natural sunlight. Replacement bay windows add to a home's aesthetic appeal and can even increase its resale value.

Bow Windows: A close relative of bay windows, bow windows consist of four or more windows that are curved away from the home in a moderate arch. Like bay windows, this "curved" design makes a room seem both larger and brighter. Due to their angled and curved designs, it is imperative that bay and bow windows are professionally and carefully installed by an experienced replacement windows contractor. Poor installation could result in drafts, heat loss, and even structural problems.

Other Popular Types of Replacement Windows

Fixed-Pane Windows: Fixed-pane windows do not open, making them the most energy efficient type of replacement window. When properly installed by an experienced replacement windows contractor, fixed-pane windows have an air-tight seal and prevent air leakage year-round. One popular type of fixed-pane window is a picture window. If you desire ventilation, however, a fixed-pane window is not the right choice for you.

Single- or Double-Hung Windows: Single- and double-hung windows are perhaps the most common type of replacement windows in the U.S. Both types of hung windows have two vertical sashes. In a single-hung window, the upper sash is fixed and cannot open, while the lower sash can open and close vertically. In a double-hung window, both sashes can open and close by sliding vertically. Although single- and double-hung windows generally have higher air leakage rates than hinged windows, they are becoming more energy efficient. Single-hung windows are more affordable and energy efficient than double-hung windows, but are also more difficult to clean.

Single- or Double-Sliding Windows: Single- and double-sliding windows have similar pros and cons to their "hung" counterparts. The main difference is that single- and double-sliding windows have two horizontal sashes, and slide horizontally rather than vertically. Both sashes slide in a double-sliding window; only one slides in a single-sliding window.

To learn more about types of replacement windows, contact an experienced replacement windows contractor today!