Windows

Types of Windows

Windows are the openings in the wall that allow light to come in and people to see out. They are used in homes, buildings, and other types of structures. Windows come in many different types and sizes, from small and simple to large and complex. Here are some of the key differentiating factors to keep in mind when looking at the different types of windows.

First, there is the type of material used to make the window. This is usually divided into three categories: vinyl, wood, and aluminum. Vinyl is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is affordable and requires little maintenance. Vinyl windows are made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are commonly white or dark gray. They are energy efficient and provide good sound insulation. Wood windows are also energy efficient but require more maintenance than vinyl. They come in many different styles and can be painted or stained to fit any aesthetic. Aluminum windows are strong and durable. They are usually used in commercial buildings but are also used in modern homes. They require little maintenance but are not as energy efficient as wood or vinyl.

Second, windows can be classified based on how they open and close. These include sliding, casement, awning, hung, and single and double-hung windows. Sliding windows open by moving side to side. Casement windows open outwards from the side. Awning windows open from the top. Hung windows, both single and double, open from the bottom or both from the bottom and the top.

Third, windows can be classified based on the number of panes of glass. This includes single, double, and triple-pane windows. Single-pane windows have one layer of glass. They are not very energy efficient. Double-pane windows have two layers of glass with a space in between. They are more energy efficient. Triple-pane windows have three layers of glass with two spaces in between. They are the most energy efficient.

Finally, some windows do not open at all. These are called picture windows. They are used to let in light but not to let out fresh air. Other windows that do not open are transom windows. These are small and usually placed above doors or other windows. Clerestory windows are high up on the wall and used in places like churches or high ceilings in homes. Bay and bow windows stick out from the wall and make a little ledge inside. Arch windows are shaped like an arch and do not need to be placed on the floor level. All these different kinds of windows are used in buildings to make them look nice and let in light.

Function and Feature of Windows

Below are the key features and functions of each type of window in bulk:

• Casement Windows: Casement windows open 90 degrees, giving a full view of the outside. They also provide a full opening for easy cleaning, both inside and outside the window. They are also very secure because they lock when the window is fully open.
• Sliding Windows: These windows are simple to use. They slide on tracks, so there's no need for cranks or handles. They also have a screen that keeps bugs out but lets fresh air in. They are also energy efficient because they have tight-fitting sashes and good weather stripping.
• Awning Windows: These windows can be left open when it rains because the top awning blocks the rain. They also let air in, and the glass doesn't get foggy because the air moves through.
• Hopper Windows: These windows are good for places that need to be ventilated and are low to the ground. They can be opened from the bottom to let air in and are also weatherproof.
• Pivot Windows: These windows turn around a center point and are good for buildings that want to save energy. They also let air in and out and are easy to clean because they turn.
• Fixed Windows: These windows don't open, but they let in lots of light and give a good view. They are also good for buildings that want to save energy because they have no moving parts.
• Picture Windows: Like fixed windows, these also don't open. However, they look nice because they frame the outside picture. They are also energy efficient and let in lots of light.
• Bay Windows: These windows make rooms look bigger and give a view of three sides. They also let light into the room from different angles and make the room look nice.
• Bow Windows: Similar to bay windows, these windows curve and make a room look nice. They also let in light and make a room feel bright and airy.
• Jalousie Windows: These windows have slats that open like shutters. They are good for places that need air and can be opened in different ways. They also let light in and keep bugs out.
• Skylights: These windows are on the roof and let light into dark places. They make roofs brighter and use sunlight well. Some skylights open to let fresh air in.
• Transom Windows: These windows are above doors and let light pass through. They make doors look nicer and give privacy while still letting light in.

Applications of Windows

Windows are an essential component of any structure, whether it is residential or commercial. However, there are different application scenarios for this product.

• Residential Applications

  Residential applications are perhaps the most common scenario for windows. In this case, the window provides light, ventilation, and a view to the outdoors. However, in the residential application, the type, size, and placement of the window play a vital role in the overall design and function of the space.

• Commercial Applications

  Windows are also commonly used in commercial applications. In this case, they provide natural light and ventilation to the occupants. Commercial window systems are designed to meet the specific needs of the building and its occupants. For instance, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, and security are important considerations in the commercial application of windows.

• Architectural Applications

  Architects use windows as a design element to create visual interest and to control the amount of light that enters a space. They employ different sizes, shapes and placement of windows to achieve these goals. For instance, large windows can be used to flood a room with natural light, while small windows can create a more intimate atmosphere. Additionally, strategically placed windows can be used to frame a view or direct light to a specific area of the room.

• Energy Applications

  Windows are a key factor in a building's energy efficiency. For instance, energy-efficient windows can reduce heat loss in the winter and keep out heat in the summer. Windows can also be used to harness solar energy. For example, photovoltaic windows can convert sunlight into electricity. In addition, passive solar design uses windows to capture and store heat from the sun.

• Sound Control Applications

  Windows can be used to control the amount of sound that enters a building. Soundproof windows are designed to block out noise from the outside, which is important in buildings located in noisy environments. For instance, buildings located near airports or busy streets may require soundproof windows.

• Safety and Security Applications

  In some cases, windows are used to provide safety and security. For example, tempered or laminated glass windows can prevent injuries in case of breakage. Security windows are designed to be difficult to break through, which can deter intruders.

How to choose windows

When selecting windows for resale, business owners should consider several factors to ensure they are purchasing a high-quality product that will meet their customers' needs. Here are some of the factors to be considered:

• Energy efficiency

  Energy efficient windows are designed to allow minimal heat transfer. Therefore, these windows help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside a home. As a result, these windows reduce energy consumption and reliance on air conditioning and heating systems. Business owners should look for windows that have a low U-value and high SHGC and EER.

• Durability

  Business owners should buy windows that will last for many years. To ensure this, they should consider the materials used in constructing the windows. They should purchase windows constructed with strong and durable materials like fiberglass and vinyl.

• Quality of construction

  Business owners should purchase high quality windows that have been constructed with high quality materials. They can check the quality of construction by looking at the details like seals, joints and hardware.

• Maintenance requirements

  Business owners should get windows that are easy to maintain. They can choose windows with a high level of resistance to rot, rust, corrosion and damage. Windows made with vinyl and fiberglass materials have a high level of resistance to damage and corrosion.

• Noise reduction

  For customers who live in noisy areas, business owners should get them windows that will reduce the amount of noise that enters the house. Such windows are usually constructed with multiple panes of glass and a space between the glasses.

• Window styles

  Window style plays an important role in a home's aesthetic appeal. Business owners should purchase different window styles to enable their customers to choose a style that will complement their homes. Some of the common window styles are casement, sliding, and picture windows.

• Easy to operate and clean

  Business owners should get customers windows that are easy to operate and clean. They should look for awning and casement windows if they are going to be installed on hard-to-reach areas.

Windows Q & A

Q1: What are the most common types of windows?

A1: The most common types are casement, double-hung, sliding, bay, bow, awning, and picture windows.

Q2: What are the four main types of windows?

A2: The four main types are casement, awning, hopper, and sliding windows. These are categorized based on how they open and close.

Q3: What are the three main types of windows?

A3: The three main types are sliding, hinged, and fixed windows. Sliding windows move horizontally, hinged windows swing open like a door, and fixed windows are stationary and do not open.

Q4: What are the most popular window styles in the United States?

A4: The most popular window styles in the United States are double-hung and casement windows. Double-hung windows have two movable sashes that slide up and down, while casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward, usually operated by a hand crank.