Are you wondering how to choose the best window for your remodel or replacement project? Wondering whether you should go with a single-hung or a double-hung, a casement window or a slider?
We've got you covered. In this article, you'll learn about the 15 most common types of windows, including single-hung, double-hung, casement, and more. From the classic charm of bay and bow windows to the sleek functionality of sliding windows, we’ll break down what makes each style distinct and ideal for different spaces in your home.
Table of Contents
Single-hung windows have a stationary upper sash and a movable lower sash. The lower sash slides up and down to open and close, while the upper sash is fixed. This classic operation makes them a familiar fixture in many homes.
Single-hung windows are ideally suited for:
| Pros | Cons |
| Cost-Effective: Single-hung windows are less expensive compared to other window types, making them a suitable option for those on a tight budget. | Limited Ventilation: Since only the bottom sash opens, single-hung windows do not offer as much ventilation as double-hung windows. |
| Energy-Efficient: With only one movable sash, these windows are less prone to air leakage compared to windows with multiple movable sashes, such as double-hung or casement windows. | Cleaning Difficulty: Cleaning the exterior of the fixed upper sash from inside can be challenging, particularly for windows on higher floors. This may necessitate the use of a ladder or hiring a professional window cleaner periodically. |
| Simple Design: The straightforward design facilitates easier installation and maintenance. Fewer moving parts mean fewer parts are likely to break. |
Double-hung windows are among the most popular and versatile window styles available. They look just like single hung windows but have two vertically-movable sashes instead of one. This feature is particularly useful for:
Check out our related article: Double Hung vs. Single Hung Windows.
Double-hung windows are great for enhancing airflow in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, and their tilt-in design allows for easy cleaning from inside the home without ladders. However, they are typically more expensive than single-hung windows, and might leak air as they age due to weakening seals.
| Pros | Cons |
| Airflow: Good for rooms needing extra ventilation, like kitchens or bathrooms. | Higher Cost: More expensive than single-hung windows. |
| Ease of Cleaning: Both sashes have a tilt-in mechanism, allowing easy cleaning of both the inside and outside from inside your home—no need for ladders. | Air Leakage: Might leak more air than single-hung windows, especially as they age and the seals between the sashes weaken. |
| Versatile Design: Fit well with almost any architectural style, from classic to contemporary, making them a universally appealing choice. |
Casement windows swing open like a door and are usually opened with a hand-crank, lever, or cam handle. Casement windows give you a clear, unobstructed view since they don’t have a rail or stile in the middle. This is another great choice for airflow and elegant style.
Casement windows are particularly well-suited for several areas in your home:
Check out our related article comparing casement windows with double-hung.
Casement windows are excellent for ventilation and creating cross-breezes in your home, and they seal tightly when closed to enhance energy efficiency. They also offer unobstructed views, making them ideal for scenic locations. However, they require space to operate, which can be a problem near sidewalks or in tight areas, and their crank mechanisms can wear out over time if not properly maintained.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent Ventilation: Great for moving air in and out of your home, allowing for strategic placement to create cross-breezes. | Space Constraints: Require clear space outside to operate, making them less suitable near sidewalks or in tightly spaced areas. |
| Energy Efficiency: When closed, the sash creates a tight seal with the frame, minimizing air leakage. | Mechanical Complexity: Crank mechanisms can wear out over time, especially if not maintained properly. |
| Unobstructed Views: With no dividers or rails, these windows provide clear views, ideal for scenic locations. |
Sliding windows, also known as glider windows, have one or more panels that move side-to-side along a track. In most designs, at least one pane slides while the other is fixed, although some types allow both panes to move. This design maximizes glass area and eliminates the need for clearance space.
Sliding windows’ ease of use and minimalist design make them a popular choice for contemporary homes. Typical placements for sliding windows include:
Upsides of sliding windows include their ease of use, efficient use of space, and wide views; while downsides include limited ventilation, difficulty cleaning the outside of the fixed panels, and potential sealing inefficiencies.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ease of Use: Sliding windows are easy to open and accessible for all ages, with fewer mechanical problems due to simple design. | Ventilation Limitation: Usually only allows for half of the window area to be open at a time, so they're not ideal if you want the entire space for airflow. |
| Space Efficiency: Do not open outward, making them ideal for locations next to high-traffic areas without obstructing walkways. | Cleaning Difficulties: Exterior of fixed panels can be challenging to clean from inside, especially on upper floors. |
| Large Views: Wide, unobstructed panes of glass provide extensive views and lots of natural light. | Sealing Inefficiencies: Generally have more air leakage compared to casement or double-hung windows due to the less tight seal. |
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom, using a crank, handle, or lever. This allows the window to act as an awning when opened, hence the name.
Awning windows are particularly suitable for:
Check out our related article on awning windows vs casement windows.
Awning windows provide weather protection and versatility in placement, but they can pose challenges with obstructing walkways, size limitations, and cleaning difficulties.
| Pros | Cons |
| Weather-Protection: Offer ventilation and light while protecting from the weather, allowing them to remain open in rain. | Obstruction Issues: They open outward, potentially blocking walkways, decks, and other areas. |
| Versatility in Placement: Ideal for a variety of placements, especially in hard-to-reach areas, operated by a handle. | Limited Size: Often smaller than other types of windows, which might limit their use in larger openings. |
| Cleaning Challenges: Cleaning the exterior from inside the house can be difficult, especially if installed higher up on a wall. |
Bay and bow windows are similar in that both extend outward from the wall of a home, giving you a panoramic view and bringing in natural light. But they have distinct differences:
One of the most popular placements for bay and bow windows is in the living room. These windows can make an ordinary living room a vibrant and comforting sanctuary, filled with light, great views of the outdoors, and a space to relax and read a book or enjoy a morning cup of coffee.
Incorporating bay or bow windows in the kitchen can transform the space dramatically. Placing them above the sink and you have a pleasant view while doing dishes or making dinner. If the window is large enough, it can house a warm and welcoming breakfast nook, perfect for family meals surrounded by natural light.
A bay or bow window in a master bedroom can create a luxurious retreat. Place it on the right side of the house and have the sunrise greet you upon waking. It can also be a great place to relax before bed or an intimate space to enjoy private moments.
Bay and bow windows can be a great choice for dining rooms as well. The natural light and added space give the room an open, airy feel, which can be enhanced further by the aesthetic of the window’s design, be it traditional or modern.
Bay and bow windows can make a home office more inviting and comfortable. If you spend the day buried in a computer screen, the natural light and outdoor views can bring you back to the natural world and help you relax during a stressful workday. The alcove created by the windows can also be used for additional storage or as a showcase for decorative items, plants, or books.
The nook created by a bay or bow window gives you so many opportunities to make the space more than just a window. Don't miss out on the possibilities!
While bay and bow windows are a beautiful addition to a home, they're not without downsides. While they can enhance your space and bring in natural light, they are expensive and may need additional structural support.
| Pros | Cons |
| They're Beautiful: Dramatically enhance the beauty of your home. | Cost: Generally more expensive than other window types due to size and installation complexity. |
| Enhanced Space: Create additional space for seating, storage, or displays. | Maintenance: Design can make cleaning difficult, especially exteriors on upper floors. |
| Increased Light and Views: Multi-window design allows light from multiple directions, and the extended structure offers sweeping views, making rooms feel larger and more inviting. | Structural Requirements: May need additional structural support, adding to installation complexity and cost. |
| Architectural Interest: Adds unique design elements to the exterior, which drives up curb appeal and can increase your property value. | |
| Versatility: Suitable for many architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary. |
Picture windows are large, fixed panes of glass that do not open or close. Designed to provide a clear, unobstructed view of the outside, they are named for their ability to frame the outside scenery like a picture frame. These windows are all about maximizing light and capturing beautiful views.
Picture windows are best for rooms where the focus is on capturing beautiful views or where you're not concerned with privacy:
Picture windows are great for opening up spaces and providing picture-perfect views of the outdoors. They are also low-maintenance and energy efficient. However, they don't open, so of course they aren't going to work for ventilation and aren't suitable where emergency exits are necessary. Plus, cleaning them can be tricky if they're high up or oversized.
| Pros | Cons |
| Beauty: Offer a modern, sleek look that enhances both the interior and exterior design of a home. | Lack of Ventilation: Do not open, which can be a disadvantage in areas needing airflow. |
| Natural Light: Allow more sunlight to enter, making rooms feel larger and more open and reducing the need for artificial lighting. | Emergency Egress: Not suitable for areas where emergency exits are required because they do not open. |
| Views: The expansive glass acts as a canvas, displaying outdoor scenery, especially valuable in homes with picturesque surroundings. | Cleaning Challenges: Can be challenging to clean on the outside, especially if high off the ground or oversized. |
| Energy Efficiency: Very energy efficient since they don't open. High-quality glazing options can further minimize heat gain and loss. | |
| Low Maintenance: Without mechanical parts or openings, require less maintenance than operable windows and do not accumulate dirt and debris in the tracks. |
Skylight windows are installed in the ceiling of a home and give you a direct line of sight to the sky above. These unique windows are designed to bring in natural light from above, making them an excellent option for areas where side windows are not feasible. Skylights can vary in shape and size, ranging from small circular windows to large, rectangular installations. They can be fixed or operable, with the latter allowing for ventilation as well as light.
Skylights brighten rooms with more natural light, reduce your electricity costs by cutting down on artificial lighting, and can improve air quality through ventilation. But they may also be less energy-efficient, have higher installation costs, and suffer increased maintenance and leakage concerns due to their placement on the ceiling.
| Pros | Cons |
| Improved Natural Light: Increase the amount of natural light in rooms, especially those without external walls, significantly brightening spaces. | Heat Gain and Loss: Can lead to significant heat loss in winter and overheating in summer if not properly installed with energy-efficient glazing. |
| Energy Efficiency: By providing more natural light, skylights can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, potentially lowering electricity costs. | Maintenance: Difficult to clean and maintain due to their location; more exposed to the elements, which may lead to leaks. |
| Ventilation: Operable skylights can enhance air circulation, bringing fresh air into the home and improving indoor air quality. | Installation Cost: Higher than other types of windows due to the complexity of installation and necessary structural considerations. |
Transom windows are small, decorative windows typically located above a door or larger window, used historically in both residential and commercial architecture. They are set into the transom bar, which separates the top of the door or window from the window above it. Originally designed for both aesthetics and practicality, transom windows can be either operational (able to open) or fixed (non-opening).
Transom windows are very versatile, serving several purposes:
Transom windows are particularly effective in several specific areas within a home:
Incorporating transom windows offer a historical nod with modern utility, improving light, enhancing style, and, when operational, increasing airflow—all while fitting into spaces that traditional windows might not.
While transom windows boost natural light and ventilation, they can be hard to access and clean, especially in high placements, and can be a source of energy loss if not properly insulated.
| Pros | Cons |
| Enhanced Light and Ventilation: Even in small spaces, transom windows can increase natural light and improve airflow. | - Limited Accessibility: If operational, transom windows can be difficult to reach due to their high placement, requiring special tools. |
| - Space Efficiency: Placed high on a wall, they don’t take up usable wall space, making them ideal for smaller rooms or walls filled with other features. | - Cleaning and Maintenance: Challenging to clean and maintain, especially if situated in rooms with high ceilings. |
| - Privacy: Provide light and ventilation in privacy-sensitive areas such as bathrooms and bedrooms without compromising security or exposure. | - Thermal Efficiency: Can be a source of energy loss, especially if not well-insulated or if made with single-pane glass. |
Floor to ceiling windows, also known as full-height windows, span from the floor to the ceiling, providing an unobstructed view of the outside and a vast amount of natural light. These windows are typically large and can even cover entire walls, turning the wall itself into a window. The architectural design of floor to ceiling windows often features minimal frames to maximize the glass area, enhancing the modern aesthetic and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces.
When considering floor to ceiling windows, it’s important to balance aesthetics with functionality. Choosing the right type of energy-efficient glass and considering window treatments for privacy and sun control are essential steps in maximizing the benefits while mitigating the drawbacks. With careful planning, floor to ceiling windows can be a stunning addition to any home, bringing the outdoors in and adding a touch of elegance and modernity to the living space.
Large windows maximize natural light, enhancing views and adding a modern, luxurious touch to homes. However, they can lead to energy inefficiencies, compromise privacy without proper treatments, and are costly and maintenance-intensive due to their size and cleaning requirements.
| Pros | Cons |
| Maximized Natural Light: Extensive glass area allows for an abundance of natural light, making rooms appear larger and more open. | Energy Efficiency: Large expanses of glass can lead to energy losses, especially if not using high-quality, energy-efficient glass, increasing costs. |
| Enhanced Views: Offer panoramic views of the surroundings, excellent for homes with picturesque landscapes or cityscapes. | Privacy: Can compromise privacy, particularly in urban settings or crowded neighborhoods, unless adequate window treatments are used. |
| Aesthetic Appeal: Add a dramatic touch to any architectural design, providing a sense of luxury and modernity, potentially increasing home’s market value. | Cost and Maintenance: More expensive to install than standard windows and require diligent maintenance, including regular cleaning of large glass surfaces. |
Glass block windows consist of individual glass blocks sealed together to form a window that is both decorative and functional. These blocks are typically frosted or patterned, providing privacy while still allowing light to pass through. Originally popular in mid-20th-century architecture, glass block windows are often used in bathrooms, basements, and other areas where privacy and security are priorities.
Glass block windows serve multiple functions:
Glass block windows are especially useful in specific applications around the home:
Incorporating glass block windows into a home design offers a blend of functionality and distinctive style. They are particularly suited to enhancing privacy and security while contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the space. Their unique decorative appeal can also play a significant role in modernizing and adding character to specific areas within a home.
Glass block windows offer enhanced security and good insulation, making them energy efficient and low-maintenance, but they also come with downsides. They do not open for ventilation, are difficult to remove once installed, and their distinct style may not suit every home's architecture.
| Pros | Cons |
| - Enhanced Security: Due to sturdy construction and thickness, glass block windows are more secure than conventional windows, making them difficult to break through. | - No Ventilation: Cannot be opened, offering no ventilation. |
| - Low Maintenance: Durable and resistant to moisture and mold, requiring little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. | - Permanent Fixture: Once installed, they are difficult to remove or replace due to their construction and integration into the wall. |
| - Energy Efficiency: Often manufactured with a hollow center, providing good insulation properties and helping to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency. | - Aesthetic Limitations: The specific look may not align with every architectural style and can appear outdated in some settings. |
Arched windows, with their distinctive curved top, add a touch of architectural elegance to any home. Often seen in historical and custom-built houses, these windows blend the charm of old-world design with modern aesthetics. They are ideal if you're looking to add a unique architectural element into your home.
Arched windows are versatile and can elevate the beauty and functionality of many rooms in a home:
Arched windows enhance your home's aesthetic with their elegant shape and can be customized to fit numerous styles. However, they are more expensive to install, their unique shape may limit placement options, and finding suitable window treatments can be challenging.
| Pros | Cons |
| - Aesthetic Appeal: Arched windows add an elegant, often dramatic look to any facade, enriching both the interior and exterior design. | - Higher Cost: More expensive than standard windows due to their shape and the complexity of installation. |
| - Natural Light: The extended height allows more sunlight to penetrate, making rooms feel larger and more open. | - Limited Placement: Their unique shape might limit where they can be placed, as not all wall spaces or existing openings can accommodate an arch. |
| - Customization: Available in various sizes and styles, tailored to fit any space and complement any home design from classical to contemporary. | - Challenges in Treatment: Finding window treatments that fit can be challenging, requiring custom solutions for privacy or light control. |
| - Increased Home Value: The unique appeal can increase the architectural value and curb appeal of your home, potentially raising its market value. |
Jalousie windows, also known as louvered windows, feature horizontally placed slats that overlap one another and open in unison using a crank or lever mechanism. This design allows for excellent airflow and is particularly suited to warmer climates where maximizing ventilation is a priority. These windows are a staple in mid-century modern homes and bring a nostalgic flair to any renovation.
Jalousie windows are best suited for certain areas of a home where ventilation is key:
Installing jalousie windows strategically can significantly enhance the comfort and air quality of your home, making enclosed spaces more enjoyable and breathable.
Jalousie windows are great for ventilation and maintaining a connection with the outdoors, and are affordable and easy to use. However, they pose security risks, are not very energy-efficient, offer limited weatherproofing, and their style may be seen as outdated, potentially impacting the aesthetic appeal for prospective buyers.
| Pros | Cons |
| - Ventilation: Offer superb airflow, adjustable to let in as much or as little air as needed. | - Security: The design can be a security risk, as individual slats can be easily removed or broken. |
| - Affordability: Generally less expensive than other types of windows, making them a cost-effective option. | - Energy Efficiency: Not very energy-efficient due to gaps between slats, allowing heat to escape during colder months. |
| - Easy to Use: Simple mechanism makes them easy to open and adjust, even for larger setups. | - Limited Weatherproofing: May allow rain and outdoor elements to enter if slats are not tightly sealed. |
| - Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Help maintain a strong connection to the outdoors, ideal for homes in scenic locations. | - Outdated Style: The style may be considered dated, which could affect aesthetic appeal to potential homebuyers. |
Specialty windows, or custom-shaped windows, refer to windows that break away from traditional rectangular forms to include shapes such as circles, arches, triangles, ellipses, and more. These windows are often used as architectural accents, adding unique character and style to a home. They can be designed to fit specific spaces where standard windows cannot be used, or to create a visual focal point in a room.
Custom-shaped windows can play a pivotal role in defining the character and enhancing the architectural beauty of a home:
Custom-shaped windows boost a home's aesthetic appeal with their unique designs and increase natural light in distinctive patterns, enhancing ambiance and offering design versatility for unusual spaces or historical aesthetics. However, they tend to be pricier due to complex manufacturing, often do not open (which limits ventilation and window treatment options), and can present challenges during installation requiring precise framing and extra structural support.
| Pros | Cons |
| - Aesthetic Enhancement: Custom-shaped windows dramatically enhance the architectural beauty of a home, providing distinctive visual interest. | - Cost: Typically more expensive than standard windows due to the complexity of design and manufacturing processes. |
| - Increased Natural Light: Help increase natural light in a home, with unique shapes casting light in novel and striking patterns, enhancing the ambiance. | - Limited Functionality: Many are fixed and do not open, limiting ventilation, screening options, and the types of window treatments available. |
| - Versatility in Design: Can be made to fit unusual spaces or match historical aesthetics in renovations, offering design flexibility standard windows cannot. | - Installation Challenges: Installation can be more complex, requiring precise framing and sometimes additional structural support. |
Egress windows are designed for safety and functionality, serving as an escape route in case of emergency. They are a critical feature in residential buildings, particularly in basements and sleeping areas where other exits might be limited or non-existent. These windows are not just practical; they also allow natural light and ventilation into lower levels and confined spaces.
Installing egress windows is not only a matter of personal preference but also compliance with local building codes. Here are ideal locations for egress windows:
The strategic placement of egress windows enhances both the safety and aesthetic of your home, ensuring that every room meets legal safety standards while becoming more inviting.
Choosing the right material for your window frames is as critical as selecting the style of the window itself. Each material has its pros and cons:
Wood frames have a classic appearance that many people love. They are also great at insulating against heat and cold. But they do require more maintenance than other materials, as wood is water-permeable and can warp, rot, or suffer from insect infestation without regular maintenance.
Vinyl is the most popular window choice for its durability, low maintenance, and good thermal performance. Its more affordable than fiberglass and wood and does not need or treatment. Vinyl is not a premium choice though, as its susceptible to lots of expansion and contraction and is not as customizable as fiberglass and wood.
Fiberglass frames are robust, maintenance-free, and have excellent thermal performance. They can mimic the appearance of wood without the associated upkeep. Fiberglass is also less prone to expansion and contraction with temperature changes, making it very energy efficient.
Composite frames are made from a combination of materials such as wood fibers and plastic polymers. They offer the aesthetic appeal of wood but are more durable and require less maintenance. They are also environmentally friendly and provide excellent thermal insulation.
Known for its strength and slim profile, aluminum frames allow for larger windows with thin frames, maximizing the view. While not as insulating as wood or vinyl, many aluminum frames now include thermal breaks to minimize heat loss.
Deciding on the right types and placement of windows is an essential step in creating a vibrant, well-lit, and functional home. Whether you choose double-hung for their versatility, casement for airflow, or picture windows for picture-perfect views, the right choice can transform your home.
If you're considering a remodel, check out our comprehensive "Ultimate Home Remodeling Guide," which covers everything you need to know about upgrading your home. From practical advice on choosing windows to tips on other home improvement areas, this guide is your go-to resource for all things remodeling.