Windows play a critical role in home design, impacting a home’s aesthetics and functionality. Vinyl windows, in particular, can provide many benefits for homeowners, from enhanced energy efficiency to minimal maintenance. The first step when buying new or replacement vinyl windows is choosing a window style to suit your needs and the room’s purpose.
Whether you want to increase natural light, add ventilation or increase privacy, use this guide to help find the ideal window style for your home:
1. Single & Double Hung Vinyl Windows
Traditional single-hung windows have one moveable panel or ‘sash’ that slides vertically. Double-hung windows have two sashes that slide independently up and down and tilt inward. Single-hung windows are a popular choice for one-story homes, while double-hung windows are ideal for second-floor bedrooms as you can easily clean them from inside the house.
2. Vinyl Casement & Awning Windows
Casement and awning windows are excellent solutions for ventilation and natural light. Both window styles operate with an easy-touch crank handle and open outward. Casement windows hinge at the side, while awning windows hinge at the top. Awning windows provide more privacy in a bathroom setting, and casement windows are ideal for kitchens.
3. Vinyl Bay, Bow & Garden Windows
Bay, bow and garden windows add charm, enhancing a home’s architectural style with a graceful curve. These window styles protrude from the house, adding an element of depth that extends the interior living area. Garden windows can enhance the view from the kitchen while providing a space to grow herbs and indoor plants. Alternatively, bay and bow windows can double as a reading nook and are the perfect accompaniment to a lounge room.
4. Vinyl Sliding Windows
Sliding windows have the largest glass surface of any openable window and provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors. They are best suited for large window openings wider than the height, and they are ideal for letting in natural light to dining and living areas. Sliding windows slide horizontally for easy operation and are designed to not impede on surrounding space.
If you need to replace your windows and want to find the ideal style for your space, upload a photo of your home exterior to the Gentek Visualizer to experiment with different window options.