Tips
3 steps to choosing the right windows
Picking out windows, like every home project, requires a lot of decision-making. But all that decision-making becomes easier when you’re working toward a defined vision. The questions below are designed to help you start digging into your needs and preferences so you can begin defining your vision.
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1. What type of windows do you want?
First things first, when we talk about types of windows, we’re talking about the way a window is designed to open (or operate). For example, casement windows crank outward to open whereas single and double-hung windows slide vertically to open.
Sometimes, deciding on window type is as easy as replacing what you currently have or going with what your architect specified in their blueprints. Other times, however, you might have big dreams.
If you’re wondering what types of windows might work best in your home, here are a few ways to decide:
- Consider the style of your home: Is it more traditional, more modern, or something in between? For ideas about which windows go well in a traditional home, look up your home’s architectural style in our Home Style Library. We also have tips on picking out modern windows. If you’re looking to combine traditional and modern styles, find inspiration from real-life homeowners in the projects section of our blog.
- Consider the room: The right window in the right place can be magic. For example, fresh air is essential in a kitchen, and a casement window above a kitchen sink is a popular choice because it’s much easier to crank open a window than to lean over the sink and try to push up a hung window. Windows, like any aspect of your home’s design, can make everyday life easier and more beautiful when they are well planned. Get some tips on the best windows for every room.
- Consider the layout: How will you access your windows? Think about whether a window is in a flow space, like a hallway, or a hangout space, like a living room. For example, you might not want an outward opening casement window next to a small deck or balcony because it will take away from that space. Along these same lines, don’t forget to think about furniture placement. How might this impact your access to a window?
Now let’s talk a bit about dreaming big. Did you know it’s possible to enlarge windows and create totally unobstructed indoor/outdoor living spaces? One way to do this is with our pass-through windows, which are perfect for connecting a kitchen to an outdoor eating area. They can create a totally new and free-flowing experience in your home that will wow your guests. Just be sure to connect with your contractor about making it happen. They will be key to bringing your dreams to life — whether they’re dreams of more light, better outdoor living, or something else entirely.
