Which Type of Window is Right for Your Home?
Choosing new windows for your home can be tricky because there are lots of different options available. One of the most important decisions that you’ll need to make is regarding the operating style of your new windows, so in this article we are going to break down the most common types of windows that are available and explain the pros and cons of each. For consistency, we’ll be referring to uPVC windows for each of the different styles but other materials are available including aluminium and wood.
Fixed Windows
As the name suggests fixed windows are fixed, meaning that they do not open or close and are typically used in homes or commercial buildings where no ventilation is required or in highrise buildings to prevent accidents from happening.
Pros of Fixed Windows
Fixed windows are typically much cheaper than other types of windows because there are no mechanics or moving parts. This also means that there are less things that can go wrong and they are usually more energy efficient because they are sealed units.
Cons of Fixed Windows
The obvious downside with fixed windows is the lack of ventilation. This means that rooms can get very hot if they are subject to direct sunlight and have no other means of ventilation like air conditioning.
Casement Windows
Probably the most popular type of window that are used in people’s homes are casement windows. They can be hinged at the top or side and are suitable for modern or traditional properties.
Pros of Casement Windows
The mechanism in casement windows is relatively simple and has been around for a long time, so therefore casement windows are at the cheaper end of the spectrum. They provide a good seal when closed for energy efficiency and they’re great for catching the wind on hot days to provide a flow of air through the home.
Cons of Casement Windows
Depending on the quality of manufacturing, the cranking mechanism can be subject to wear and tear which can result in breakages and repairs.
Tilt and Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are very practical because they can be operated in two different ways. They can be tilted inwards from the bottom hinge for ventilation and then by turning the handle the window can be opened inwards by 90 degrees like a door.
Pros of Tilt and Turn Windows
By opening inwards, tilt and turn windows are the perfect solution for cleaning and maintenance at a high level without the need for climbing ladders. When tilted they allow ventilation whilst also being secure because they are only open a small amount.
Cons of Tilt and Turn Windows
When opened inwards, tilt and turn windows take up space inside the room which could potentially cause a hazard or block a walkway. The more sophisticated mechanism means these windows are more expensive than others in the list.
Fully Reversible Windows
Fully reversible windows are similar to casement windows but with the added benefit that they can be rotated by 180 degrees to allow for easy cleaning. These are also known as top-swing windows because they are usually hinged from the top.
Pros of Fully Reversible Windows
These are great for medium and high rise buildings or hard to reach places where cleaning is difficult, because they can be fully rotated very quickly and easily to clean the outside of the glass and frames.
Cons of Fully Reversible Windows
The extra functionality and mechanical components mean that these windows will be more expensive than fixed or casement windows.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are very common for traditional properties including those from the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian periods. They were originally made from wood in two sections with the bottom section being able to slide up and down.
Pros of Sash Windows
These windows are very elegant in appearance and provide an authentic charm to period properties. Modern versions with double glazed panes and uPVC frames are much more energy efficient compared to the original wooden, single glazed versions.
Cons of Sash Windows
Choosing uPVC for sash windows can lose some of the aesthetic appeal and some properties may have restrictions from the local council about the type of materials that can be used.
Triple Glazed Windows
If you are looking for the ultimate in thermal efficiency then you might want to choose triple glazed windows which come with three panes of glass.
Pros of Triple Glazed Windows
Triple glazing provides better insulation for your home which should help to lower energy bills. Triple glazing windows are also great for reducing outside noise and providing additional security.
Cons of Triple Glazed Windows
Triple glazing is more expensive than standard double glazing.
Summary
There are many types of windows available for your home so it’s important to take your time and think carefully about which will suit your style of property and at a price you can afford.
You may want to keep it simple and lower the costs with fixed or casement windows, or perhaps you’ll want to splash out on the extra functionality of tilt and turn or fully reversible windows. If you have a period property then you might decide to go with the elegant sash windows or if energy efficiency is your main goal then triple glazing could be the right option to choose.
And finally we also recommend getting quotes from a few different windows suppliers and installers because there can be a huge difference in terms of the price and quality that they provide.
