Replacing windows with a focus on choosing new windows can feel like a big task. A big part of the process is looking through colors, designs, and matching windows to decor. It can feel overwhelming. Never fear, that’s why we are here! Look over these top considerations when choosing new windows to help you make the best choices for your beautiful home.
Adjustable vs Fixed Windows
The choice between fixed and adjustable windows begins with the concept of whether you’d like them to open or not. Fixed windows aren’t meant to open, but they showcase a beautiful view. On the other hand, adjustable windows open, letting air flow come through, and they come in a variety of adjustment styles. They also tend to cost more, but can be necessary to meet code and maintain safety. If your home has multiple floors, consider what will work best on each floor. Seasonal allergies may be a consideration in which kind you select–only choosing adjustable when it’s necessary. Or, you may love to have the windows open, which may lead to very few fixed windows.
Single and Double Hung Windows
When choosing new windows, you’ll probably find yourself exploring both single and double-hung selections. These adjustable windows open for ventilation and air flow. Single-hung windows open from the bottom, and double-hung windows can open from the bottom and the top. Have kids or babies around? Safety features are essential when choosing new windows, and both of these windows offer peace of mind for homes with little ones or pets. When it comes to cleaning windows on the second story of your home, maintenance might be a bit more challenging with single-hung windows. Looking at the various rooms in your home, and their overall use, will help you determine which of these would be an excellent fit for your space.
Casement Windows
Do you prefer having more control over how wide your windows open? Consider casement windows. One of the unique design features is the crank handle, which lets you control the air flow. Casement windows can look fixed at first glance, but they open out for fresh air. Enjoy a beautiful breeze in style with these gorgeous windows.
Window coverings can be adjusted and lowered or raised easily while allowing the window to open and increase flow from outside. Designer roller shades add this level of versatility and style you need with casement windows while also being chic to match your aesthetic.
Versatility with Tilt Turn
If you’re looking for a unique window with versatile positioning, check out tilt turn windows. Tilt turn windows give you the option of opening in like a door, or tilting in at the top at an angle. They can be great at increasing air flow, plus the adjustable angles makes them easy to clean. The downside to these windows was the lack of light control and privacy, until Hunter Douglas introduced the TrackGlide system. Trackglide allows the window coverings to move with the glass, providing continual coverage no matter the position of the window. Because the system uses honeycomb shades, you’ll also get much-needed energy efficiency.
Just Slide (or Fold)
Sliding and folding windows may look like fixed windows but offer unique features. Think about opening from the side–and either sliding the panel over or folding it out of the way. These amazing features let more air flow in as you desire. These side openings can be easy to clean, but they do require more maintenance, as the mechanisms and channels also have to be cleaned to maintain proper movement.
The Functional Benefits
Beyond the type of window you select, choosing new windows can come down to how you want to enjoy those spots in your home. Depending on the location of the window and which direction it may face, you may be swayed to switch from adjustable to fixed or vice versa. South-facing windows, that receive an intense amount of daytime sunshine might seem like a good candidate for adjustable windows to let the air circulate, but that won’t help you during the hottest and most humid times of day. This is where we like to remind homeowners that no matter which type of window you choose, the right window coverings will be an amazing addition. Light control, privacy and energy efficiency are the functional benefits you need–no matter which kind of windows you select.
The Designer Details
Even if you’re not a detailed person, the look and feel of your home and the windows that frame it will make the home feel brighter and more ‘you.’ Take a dive into the world of details with beautiful design features like window grids that function just like regular windows but offer a unique style. Turn up your individual aesthetic and form with this beautiful addition to your home.
The Window Grilles
Window aesthetics: Who knew it was a thing? Not just for window treatments, but the windows themselves. Grills and grids are a personal choice in window design. Both big and small windows will benefit from this style, especially if you are going for a colonial or farmhouse design. This style has character in spades with visual beauty, without compromising quality or control of light and privacy. Change it up in your home with treatments like designer solar shades to complement and polish the look.
The Frame Color
Let’s talk color for a moment. While there are options when choosing new windows, the actual window itself is an entirely different animal. White is the standard feature. Beautiful, clean, and versatile it can go anywhere in the home. Black trim windows up the game a bit, while still having a classic look and feel, but cost may be a factor. Woodgrain finishes on a window work well in the right space, but it all depends on your own personal style.
Choosing Windows and Coverings
Choosing new windows is not an easy choice, but why can’t it at least be fun? It can be when you start looking at the features and designs available–as well as window coverings. What could be more fun than picking colors and designs for those new windows? We got you covered (literally) in this department. We will help you choose and design the window coverings you need to make your home feel beautiful and bright. Contact our team to get started.
