Read on to find the correct pop in of window for your home and budget.
What Is a Window Sash?
Awindow sashis a unit of glass enclosed in its own frame.
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Farmhouse and bungalow home styles make extensive use of double-hung windows.
Double-hung windows work well for upper levels, where cleaning the windows from the outside is difficult.
Upper sashes can be slid down or swung inward for cleaning.
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In some cases, double-hung windows can be a safety hazard for children.
Opening the lower sash creates a large, accessible opening.
Yet double-hung windows can also be very safe.
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It’s possible to keep the top sash open for ventilation while locking the bottom sash.
Single-hung windows work best on first-level stories because you must clean the upper sash from the outside.
Casement windows are controlled by a crank or another mechanism that gradually pivots the window.
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On the other side is a latch to lock the window when shut.
Casement windows close tightly, effectively keeping out drafts.
When you want air movement in the house, casement windows can also direct outside air into the house.
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When fully extended, casement windows can be broken off by strong winds.
The cranking mechanisms are also subject to wear and have a high failure rate.
The sash is attached at the top and locks into place at the bottom.
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When fully open, an awning windowlooks like an awning.
Awning windows are often used in wet climates.
Small awning windows are often used in the basement or below-grade applications.
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Like casement windows, awning windows operate via mechanical cranks that are subject to wear.
So, they have a high failure rate and need more maintenance.
One or both of the sashes slide on horizontal tracks.
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Popular withmid-century modernand ranch-style homes, slider windows are very durable and easy to open and close.
Slider windows are simple to maintain, with no cranks or complicated mechanisms.
However, their tracks attract dirt and debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
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The classic picture window is the most familiar example of a fixed window.
Fixed windows provide views or light where ventilation or egress is not needed.
They lend themselves to modern home styles and are cheaper than window styles.
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The outside of fixed windows must always be cleaned from the outsidethey do not open or swing inward.
Roof windows and skylights bring light into areas where wall space for windows is limited.
These windows are called bay windows when the shape of the extension is essentially square.
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They are known as bow windows when the shape is curved.
Abay or bow window can be a visual centerpiecein large living rooms, family rooms, or parlors.
Add awindow seatto a bay or bow window to provide extra seating and storage options.
The thick blocks are typically made from semi-opaque glass, allowing light to pass through while blocking views.
you might alsoinstall glass blocksin foundation walls to bring a modest amount of light into basements.
Some styles of glass block windows include ventilating panels built into the unit.
Glass block windows can be challenging to integrate into some home styles.
They usually have glass on four sides and a solid fifth side on the bottom.
Garden windows expand a room just slightly.
They can hold plants that need extra sunlight and heat-resistant decorative items.
Weigh the factors you need or want most before investing in a new set of windows.
The most common replacement windows are double-hung windows and slider windows.
Both types of windows fit with a wide range of architectural styles.
Both windows let you open one section for ventilation while the other is closed for safety.
All operable window styles lose some air.
The most popular style, double-hung windows, has the most air leakage of all window styles.
Regarding operable windows, casement windows are safe because the open gap is relatively narrow even when opened fully.
Windows are Vital to Survival but Keep Safety in Mind.National Safety Council.
Window Types and Technologies.Department of Energy.
