How do you choose new windows

The bow window, similar to a bay window, consists of four or more equal-size windows, usually casements, that create a gradual arcing projection. Both bay and bow windows provide great open views, as well as give a room the aura of being larger than it really is. Adding a window seat is a popular addition to any bay or bow window. Casement windows offer more ventilation than double-hung windows, typically have less air leakage than other window styles, and look best if they are at least slightly taller than they are wide.

Because they swing out, however, they may not be well suited to installation adjacent to heavy pedestrian traffic areas, such as decks or front porches. Double-hung — Double-hung windows feature two sashes in a single frame.

The top and bottom sash bypass each other vertically when sliding open from the bottom up or the top down. Double-hung windows look best when they are about twice as tall as they are wide and each sash is an equal-sized square.

They are often installed in traditional or Victorian homes, or those featuring a classic or Colonial style. A circular or hexagonal window can be strategically placed to enhance a view or the exterior architecture of your home.

Or, in a window wall, a fixed window can be flanked by venting units and topped with smaller fixed units, called transoms. Single-hung — Single-hung windows offer all the features and benefits of double hung windows, with one difference: only the bottom sash opens by sliding upward.

The ventilation opening can be adjusted from a small area to one-half of the window area. Sliding — Sliding windows, sometimes called gliders or sliders, function just as their name implies — moving horizontally side to side. Sliders are one of the sleekest, contemporary profiles in windows, and ideal for installing in those hard-to-reach areas, like over the kitchen sink.

They also are commonly installed in multi-family buildings and apartment complexes. Sliders are typically available as single-sliding only one sash moves or double-sliding units. Transom — Like fixed windows, transoms are most often used in combination with other windows, and can be either venting or fixed units.

They help give a room the illusion of larger windows, allow in more light and, if venting units, may increase airflow. Transoms often are used to create a window wall. Transom windows are available in many different shapes, including square, rectangular, half-circle, elliptical, and many more. Window wall — Also often referred to as combination windows, window walls help make a small room look larger maximizing the amount of light and ventilation. They are literally a wall of windows in any combination of sizes, shapes, and styles, sometimes stretching from floor to ceiling and wall to wall.

Glass types and options Clear — Clear glass is the basic material available for windowpanes. Chat with a single touch Microsoft Teams is now built into Windows 11 so you can instantly chat and video call, right from your desktop.

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New touchscreen shortcuts are here Do it faster with intuitive finger gestures. Swipe to change desktops 3 Swipe four fingers left or right on your touch screen to switch to another desktop. NEW Easily organize your apps and windows Clean desktop, clear mind. Easily organize your apps and windows Clean desktop, clear mind. New window technology has advanced considerably, and a new set of windows could make your home much more energy efficient. Here are the key features and styles you should consider when shopping for new windows.

Windows take a lot of abuse and must withstand strong winds, heavy rains, and freezing snow and ice. Over the years the weather will take it's toll on your windows. But a draft here or there shouldn't necessitate a whole window replacement—start with improving the weatherstripping around your window which should make a huge difference in energy loss. If your windows are damaged beyond repair, however especially if there is water damage to the sash or casing , you should consider replacing your window.

Damaged windows can lead to bigger issues with water gaining access to wall cavities and your foundation. Check the health of your wood windows by tapping the frame with a flat-blade screwdriver to see how soft the wood is. If the end of the screwdriver can be pushed easily into the wood, it's usually a sign of decay. The first steps to buying new windows is to determine your needs, design, budget and window functions. Window purchases are a big commitment, which means it's a costly mistake to order the wrong type.

New windows are available in wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass. Wood frames are a common choice for remodels and can be bought to match existing windows if you aren't planning on replacing all of them. Wood window sashes can be replaced to update a drafty window, but they require a bit more maintenance. Still, they offer a classic look, so for an older home to retain it's original style, wood windows are often the only option. Clad-frame windows feature an aluminum or vinyl shell.

However if you are looking at a powdercoated window then you are pretty much stuck with this. You can actually paint them, but it is not easy and straight forward and ideally you should choose a colour with some longevity.

Related: Using Surfmist as a trim colour. Related: Why I love a crisp white trim. Contemporary windows and doors are quite simple in their design.

I believe that wherever possible though a window or door frame benefits from either a timber architrave or masonry corbelling. You need to consider whether you have Heritage controls on your house when painting windows. Often a Heritage order will specify different colours for the frame and architrave.

If you don't have Heritage controls then you can paint them in one colour. The house below has windows and trim in Dulux Domino. I love timber windows that can be painted one colour outside to suit the exterior scheme and another colour inside to suit the interior.

You then get exactly the right look and feel for each area. However with powdercoated windows the colour you have outside is what you will also be working with inside so you need to find a colour that works for both situations. There are products on the market with different powdercoated colours inside and outside with special glass but these are a more expensive solution.

Double glazing is popular in many countries around the world but hasn't made much of an impact on the market in Australia. I find this hard to believe as we have such extremes of temperature in some areas here — bitingly cold during the winter and baking hot during the summer months. If you live in an area of extreme temperatures then this is something you should consider.

You can also make the house more comfortable in warm clients with Low E glass. This comes in various strength levels and it is a good idea to look at this closely as it will change the colour and reflectivity of the glass. Always look at samples to ensure you like the overall look with your exterior colour scheme. Crittal windows black steel frames are making a comeback.

I find these very appealing but of course they're not for every property style. They suit small scale contemporary homes, warehouse conversions and some more traditional homes. They can be expensive but they have low maintenance costs.

I hope that this has been a useful overview for you. I have lots of free advice in my FREE Resource Library including exterior and interior checklists for your next renovation or new build.

You can sign up and download everything here. I also have an online colour consultation service if you are stuck with which colours to choose for your home — more information is here. I am currently looking for a glass door company for the installation of my windows at my new home in Springfield. Thanks for helping me choose the right window style that best fits my property. I shall then take note of your tip to consider the style and period of my house to easily find the perfect window style.

Hi Nedra Mid Century modern houses are all about the views and bringing the outside in so windows are very generous and plain. Casement windows work very well for this look rather than a sliding or a double hung style. Hope this helps Samantha. Hi Samantha thanks again for your great advise! We are looking at Surfmist for roofing and probably Tranquil retreat for cladding for our coastal holiday home. I was looking at having white windows and architraves inside and out but the Stegbar powder coat Pearl White only comes in a gloss?

They do offer Surfmist in a matt but now not sure weather to go with this but still paint the archs white particularly for the interior? Thank you.