01Mar 2016

Choosing the Right Windows for Your Property

Posted in: Home Improvement and Window Styles  –  By Patchett Joinery

 Whether you’re having a new property built or you want to renovate your home – choosing the right style of windows can make a huge difference to its overall look. When choosing the window style for your property, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. You don’t only have to think about the style but also practical things like ventilation and safety. With casement windows, sash windows, bay windows and many more to choose from, there really is a lot to think about from a design perspective.

Below is a complete guide to the different styles of windows as well as frame materials and factors to consider when choosing windows for your property.

Window Styles

 To be able to decide on which windows will work best for your home, you need to be aware of the different window styles that are on the market. Below is an explanation of each –

  • Single/Double Hung Windows – These are an extremely common style of windows found in many homes. They consist of two parts and open from either the top or bottom. Single hung windows slide from the bottom up only whilst double hung windows open from either the bottom or the top. The advantage of double hung windows is that they’re safer when there are children in the house and you don’t want to risk them climbing through the bottom part of the window.
  • Slider Windows – Slider windows are another common option. As the name suggests – they open by sliding from one side to another. This are particularly useful when space outside your property is limited.
  • Awning Windows – Awning windows are most often found in bathrooms. They open from the bottom outwards in an arch.
  • Casement Windows  – Casement windows usually consist of one sash and open outwards. They usually have a lever which is used to set the distance the window is opened.

Window Frame Options

Just as important as the style of window you choose is the frame material. Below is a list of the main window frame materials on the market –

Wood Frames – Whilst wood looks beautiful, especially when first fitted, it does require a good deal of maintenance to keep it from ageing. In addition to painting wood frames, you must also treat them to avoid problems caused by condensation and rot.

  • Vinyl Frames – Vinyl frames are very popular with homeowners for a few key reasons. Not only do they look great but they’re also reasonably priced and require very little maintenance.
  • Vinyl Clad Frames – If you want the best of both worlds, then vinyl clad frames are a perfect choice. Then enable you to have the natural wood look on the inside of your home whilst having a vinyl coating on the outside to prevent things like rot and moisture damage.

Factors to Consider

Do you choose casement windows or sash windows? What kind of frame should you opt for? Below are the biggest factors to consider when choosing the right style of windows for your property

Architecture – The architecture of your home will go a long way to dictating what style of window will work best. If you have a modern home that has wood panelling on the exterior walls then very simple and elegant panel-style windows would be a perfect choice.

  • Functionality Vs Aesthetics – When deciding on the type of windows to have fitted you don’t want to only focus on aesthetics. For example if you have children then safety must also be a consideration.
  • Think About the Interior – It’s easy to just focus on what the windows in your home will look like from the outside. Of course this is important but it’s also important to think how the windows will look on the inside. Many people opt for vinyl clad windows because of this.