Upgrading your windows is a great way to improve the look of your home. It can also lower your energy bills and bring in more natural light.
Window replacement companies can offer a wide variety of frame and glass options. They can use aluminum or fiberglass frames. Some use a low-E coating designed for hot climates.
Bay or bow windows
Adding a bow or bay window provides an excellent way to add dimension and light to a home. They can even provide a seated ledge for your family to enjoy.
A bay window features a picture window flanked by side windows that can be either fixed or vented. This allows you to open all of the windows to let in fresh air.
Picture windows
Picture windows offer unobstructed views and plenty of natural light. They brighten living areas and create a cozy atmosphere. They are a great option for homeowners that enjoy the beauty of nature and want to bring it inside.
However, they cannot open or close, so they do not encourage air circulation or help cool homes. They are also trickier to clean from the outside.
Casement windows
Unlike double-hung or sliding windows that open and close within their frames, casement windows hinge on the side and allow fresh air in. They’re also easier to clean than traditional sash windows.
They don’t have muntins that obstruct the view and can be combined with picture windows. They’re a good option for homes with children and pets. They don’t come with screens on the outside of the window, however.
Awning windows
Choosing the right window replacement for your home is a major decision. Fortunately, with the help of an expert, you can choose windows that are both budget-friendly and energy efficient.
Hinged at the top, awning windows open outward from the bottom using a crank mechanism. They work well in spaces with wide openings and can be kept open during rain. They also provide excellent ventilation and lighting.
Sliding windows
Slider windows offer the view of a picture window with the ventilation of double-hung windows. They’re easy to use and look great with a variety of styles.
They are also energy efficient with low-E glass and argon gas. Other options include casement windows, which open outward like a door, and awning windows, which are hinged at the top and are ideal for wet climates.
Garden windows
Garden windows, also known as greenhouse windows, let more sunlight into a home while providing space for herbs and plants. They often feature double-pane glass that maintains heating and cooling costs while reducing energy usage. Some have low-emissivity or spectrally selective coatings that increase insulation without interfering with visibility.
To replace a garden window, first remove the existing sliding panel. Then, measure the rough opening and order the appropriate size.
Skylights
Skylights let in natural light and add a touch of charm to your home. They can also help warm your home naturally with solar energy.
These windows are hinged at the top and open outward like a door, allowing for ample ventilation. They are a popular choice for Bartow window replacement projects. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and glass specifications, including low-E coatings and heat soak-tested safety glazing.
Transom windows
Transom windows rest above doors and windows and can enhance the architectural design of a home. Licensed contractors can install them in new construction and in older homes that have tall enough walls. They can come in both operable and non-operable varieties. Muntins-straight or curved bars between glass panes-are options that further add style.
Hinges on these windows allow them to open a few inches, increasing airflow. They also offer more natural light than a door or window alone.
Hopper windows
Hopper windows are hinged from either the top or bottom and open at a 45-degree angle. They’re typically installed in basements and above doorways to allow for ventilation.
The best choice depends on your goals and climate. Vinyl offers great value and durability while wood provides a traditional look. Clad-wood windows offer both beauty and low maintenance. They also come with insulated glass for energy efficiency.
Jalousie windows
Jalousie windows have a distinctive design and are found in older homes in warmer climates. They allow good ventilation but do not provide much insulation. They also present security risks since anyone can easily break the glass slats.
They are best replaced with something else that will keep your home warm and cool while maintaining privacy. Alternative window styles are more secure, energy efficient, and easy to maintain.