25 Types of Windows, Styles and Sizes

Articles > 25 Types of Windows, Styles and Sizes

Windows are an essential part of a building, especially residential buildings, and homes. A window is an opening in the wall, which allows passage of light, and sound and sometimes a window provides feelings of freshness by allow air in to the room. Windows are not only the essential part of a building but also of vehicles, tunnels and underground apartments. There are many types of windows, but most common types of windows used in homes are being discussed in the following lines.

Types of Window:

(1). Eyebrow Windows

The bottom of an eyebrow window is flat while the top is curved. It is constructed in the roof in way that roofing carries over the window in a wavy line. Such types of windows are a source of light and ventilation for a top floor. Such type of window offer great visibility and allows more light and ventilation to the room.

(2). Cross Windows:

A cross-window is a window whose lights are defined by a mullion and a transom, forming a cross. The Late Gothic cross-window is known since the 14th century and replaced the hitherto common Romanesque or Gothic arched window on buildings.

(3). Fixed Windows

A fixed window is a window which can not be opened. Glasses are fixed in a way that only light can enter the room.

(5). Single Hung Sash

A single hung Sash window has one operational sash. The purpose of such windows is to allow light as well air enter the room. These window are generally fixed in upper part of the wall.

(6). Double Hung Sash:

A double hung sash window is designed in a way that two operational sash can be opened to allow air and sound inside the room. The purpose and style of the window is same as that of Single hung sash. The difference is, in a double hung sash, both of the sash can be opened, while in single hung sash, only one sash can be opened.

(7). Fold Up:

This type of window is folded up twice to open space to the outdoors. This type of window is an amended form double hung window. When this window is closed it gives a look and feeling of a traditional wood window. These windows are available in two style. Some of the Fold up windows are folded inward to the room as well as outwards.

(8). Horizontal Sliding Sash:

This type of windows may consist of two or more sashes. The distinction of this type of windows is the sashes can move like a slide horizontally. This type of windows is available in different styles. In some styles only one sash can be moved, while in other style all of the sashes are moveable.

(9). Casement Window

A casement is a window that is attached to its frame by one or more hinges at the side. They are used singly or in pairs within a common frame, in which case they are hinged on the outside. Casement windows are often held open using a casement stay.

Tilt and Slide Windows:

Tilt and slide windows are made of two sections of glass. The quality of this type of windows is it has dual functionality. The sections of the window can be slided as well as tilted and opened.

(10). Transom Windows:

Transom Window is a special kind of windows, which is constructed above the door or a window. The Transom Window is separated from the door and main window by passing a wooden or concrete beam. The purpose of the transom window is also the same as of the other types of windows. However, it further adds the beauty of homes.

(11). Side Light Windows

This type of window is installed beside the door and another window. This is a vertical type window, less in width. The only purpose of this window is to allow light into the room when doors and other windows closed.

(12). Jalousie Window

Jalousie Window is also known as Louvre Window. It is composed of parallel glass strips and wooden louvers, which are set in a metallic frame. All these glass strips or wooden louvres are attached with the frame by the help of hinges. These strips are tilted altogether and opened for either air or light. Generally these windows are installed instead ventilators. In other words it is a type of ventilator.

(13). Clerestory Windows:

Clerestory is the high section of wall that is generally above eye level. Windows present in clerestory of the wall are called Clerestory Windows.

(14). Skylight Windows:

Skylight Windows are made in the roof. The purpose such types of windows is to let sunlight and moonlight to enter, directly into the room. These windows generally consist of double slides. The upper slide is fixed in the frame and can not be opened, while the lower slide is moveable. The lower slide is made up of wood or black glass. When the lower slide is closed, light can not enter into the room. However, in many cases these windows are designed in a way that both light and air can enter, if opened. These window can also be made in casement style.

(16). Roof Windows:

Roof windows are modern day windows. Modern roof windows are an optimal solution used in the construction industry as they illuminate interiors, ventilate loft spaces and provide views to the outside. What is more, installing windows in the roof is cheaper and less labour-intensive than building dormers. Roof windows are changing. Currently manufactured roof windows are products of the highest quality, featuring high durability, energy-efficiency, safety and convenient operation. These windows also act as smoke ventilators.

(17). Roof Lantern Windows:

The roof lantern windows are installed in the roof and they aimed at illuminating the room of hall of the house. These are also different styles depending on the will of owner and constructor of the home. These windows have not a definite shape, size or style.

(18). Oriel Window:

It is a form of bay window and protrudes from the wall. The sections of these windows are attached with the frame by means of hinges. These windows are in casement style.

(19). Diocletian Window:

The ancient type of windows, which can be seen in a semi-circular shape. These windows were used in ancient Rome. Some revivalist architects are installing such type of windows at a limited scale.

(20). Picture Window:

This is one of the most charming Windows. A picture window is a large, fixed-pane window, generally made without glazing bars. A picture window gets its name from the fact that it is designed to give you a clear view of your surroundings without any obstructions.

(21). Multi-lite Window:

A window glazed with glass panes, which are separated by wooden or metallic bars, whatever material, the frame is made up of.

(22). Emergency Exit Window:

It is also known as Egress Window. It is large and designed to exist and escape in case of danger. These types of window are installed in homes as well as in workplaces, where there is need to exist in case of emergency.

(23). Stained Glass Window:

These windows are made up of colourful pieces of glass. Apart from entering light and air, these windows are installed at ornamental objective. These windows beautify the interior and exterior of a building.

(24). Double Panned Window

The double panned window is made up of two glass panes. Each glass pane is fitted in an individual frame. Each pane can be opened for air to enter in.

(25). Hexagonal Window:

A window of hexagon shape is called Hexagonal shape window.

Styles of Windows:

Most common window styles include.

Double-hung windows
Double-hung with muntins
Casement windows
Awning windows
Slider windows
Fixed windows
Roof windows or skylights
Bay or bow window
Glass block windows

Each of the style has its own prose and cones.

(1). Double Hung Windows:

Pros

Double-hung windows are made by many manufacturers, so your selection is very wide.
Prices are generally reasonable, due to the wide availability of this window type.
Double-hungs are normally easy to open and close, thanks to springs or weights.
Tracks are vertical, so they generally don't fill up with dirt.

Cons

Over time, counterbalance springs can wear out or sash cords can break. These windows require occasional maintenance to keep them operating smoothly.
Large opening can make this type of window a break-in hazard for determined intruders.

(2). Double-hung with muntins:

Adding Window Muntins to your existing double hung windows can change the entire look of your home.

Pros

Same as for standard double-hung windows.
Provides an old-style classic appeal.

Cons

Same as for standard double-hung windows.
With true muntin windows, the muntins may separate from the glass over time, compromising the energy-efficiency of the window.
Fake muntin grills can look cheap and inauthentic.

(3). Casement Windows:

Pros

Casement windows are considered better than double-hung windows at keeping out drafts since the window seal is generally quite tight.
Casement windows are good when you want to "scoop" cooling outside air into the house.
Casement windows tend to be relatively secure against intruders—the open space is fairly narrow when the windows are open.

Cons

When fully extended, casement windows can be broken off by strong winds.
Mechanical cranking mechanisms are subject to wear and have a high failure rate.
Casement windows do not qualify as egress windows unless they are quite large.

(4). Awning Windows:

Windows in this style are good for ventilation. These windows are panels of glass. Each panel is fitted in a frame separately. These windows are generally installed for the sake of air. These windows are hung with the help of hinges to their frame from the upward side.

Pros

Awning windows are fairly secure against intruders.
The windows can be left open during rain since the glass serves as an awning that prevents water from entering.

Cons

Awning windows do not scoop in outside fresh air as effectively as casement windows.
Like casements, the mechanical cranks on awning windows are subject to wear and have a high failure rate.

(5). Sliding Sash

Pros

Sliders have no cranks or mechanisms, so they are very durable.
Windows tend to be cheaper than other styles, due to the simplicity of their design.

Cons

Style tends to be somewhat dated.
Tracks can fill with dirt and debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
Sizes and shapes are limited.

(6). Fixed Windows

A fixed window is a window which can not be opened. Glasses are fixed in a way that only light can enter the room.

Pros

Fixed windows are permanently sealed, so they offer better energy savings than other windows types.
Simple design lends itself to modern home styles.
Fixed windows tend to be cheaper than other window styles

Cons

Fixed windows can create too much energy gain in warm, sunny climates.
Because they can't be opened, fixed windows provide no means of admitting fresh air.

(7). Roof/ Skylight Windows:

These windows are of three types:

Skylight Windows

Roof Windows

Roof Lantern Windows

Pros

They provide a good way to add light to the attic and second-story spaces.
Venting roof windows can help exhaust hot air in summer.
Constant, direct exposure to the sun means these windows can help heat spaces in winter.

Cons

Skylights and roof windows take a heavy beating from sun and rain; these windows are prone to problems and have a shorter lifespan than other windows.
Installation generally requires a pro, since cutting open a roof is beyond the abilities of most Dyers.

(8). Bay or Bow Windows:

They are also called Oriel Windows. It is a form of bay window and protrudes from the wall. The sections of these windows are attached with the frame by means of hinges. These windows are in casement style.

Pros

Bay or bow windows create a design statement like no other home feature.
These windows are ideal where you want a constant view of the outdoors.
These windows offer shelf space for growing plants or displaying decorative items.
Small bay windows can serve as greenhouse windows for growing herbs and other plants.

Cons

Bay or bow windows are quite expensive.
Installing these windows requires a considerable amount of framing work, including headers and roof coverings.
The large surface area can create a heat loss issue.

(9). Glass block windows:

These windows are made up of semi-opaque glass of square shape. They give a block shapes that is why they are know as glass block. They are very hard and protective, sometimes bullet proof. They are fixed type of windows which allow only light. They are impermeable to air and sound.

Pros

Glass block walls are the most secure of all windows since the heavy, thick blocks are mortared in place permanently.
Glass blocks are semi-opaque, so they are ideal for areas where privacy is important.
These windows have very good insulating properties.
Glass blocks are very durable; such windows rarely need replacement.

Cons

Glass blocks can be difficult to integrate into a home style. These windows are utilitarian, not very decorative.
On south-facing walls, glass block may heat up indoor spaces.

Sizes of Windows:

As far as size of all of the above windows is concerned that depends on the requirement. Window manufacturers use a simple size notation for replacement windows, which you can use to work out what size window you need. This notation shows the width and height of a window. The first two digits are used for width of the window while the second two digits show the height of window. For example, a window with a size notation of 3440 will have a width of 3 foot 4 inches (101.6 cm) and a height of 4 foot 0 inches (122 cm).

The sizes of windows available are of different levels, however window size is determined by the customer. Bear in mind that the actual window measurements will be about half an inch less than the whole number identifier. This is done to make the windows easier to install. So, for a window that is marked to fit a 36in (91.44cm) by 36in opening, it will actually measure around 35.5in (90.17cm) by 35.5in.

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