A Comprehensive Guide to Windows

Well-placed windows can reduce your need for artificial lighting and make spaces feel larger and more open. When installing new windows, it’s important to consider placement, window type, frame material, and more to choose the best windows for your home, decor, and budget. Our guide will cover all the basics you need to know.

The Components of Windows

Understanding basic window components and available materials can help you make an informed decision when renovating your home or choosing designs for new construction.

Window Parts

A window consists of several key parts working together to create a functional unit. 

• Casing: The trim surrounding the window on the inside
• Extension jambs: Added to extend the window frame to the face of the interior wall
• Glass pane: The transparent material that allows light to pass through
• Sash: The frame that holds the glass pane
• Sill: The horizontal piece on the outside bottom of the window
• Stool: The interior horizontal trim at the window’s bottom
• Window frame: The structure that contains the sash

Traditional windows often featured small panes held in place by thin frames called muntins, sealed with glazing putty. Modern windows typically use larger panes with improved insulating properties.

Frame Materials

Window frames come in various materials, each with advantages and disadvantages:

• Aluminum: Lightweight and strong, but less energy-efficient
• Composite: Combines materials for enhanced performance, often at a higher cost
• Fiberglass: Durable and energy-efficient, but can be more expensive
• Vinyl: Affordable and low-maintenance, but may not be as durable as other options
• Wood: Traditional and beautiful, but requires more maintenance

Some manufacturers offer wood frames clad in vinyl or aluminum for extra durability and less maintenance.

Types of Windows for Your Home

Choosing the right type of window can significantly impact your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and overall appearance. Here are a few common types to choose from:

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are the most popular option used in homes. They feature two sashes that slide vertically within the frame. They’re easy to clean and have a classic appearance that suits many architectural styles.

Modern double-hung windows often use spring balances instead of the traditional counterweight system, making them easier to operate and maintain.

Casement and Awning Windows

Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward, similar to a door, while awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom. 

These windows offer unique benefits for homeowners, including excellent ventilation and improved energy efficiency thanks to a tight seal. They’re also perfect for hard-to-reach areas of the home.

Sliding Windows

Often seen in modern and contemporary home designs, sliding windows operate horizontally, with one or more sashes sliding along a track. They’re ideal for spaces where outward-opening windows might be obstructed or where you’d prefer to maximize ventilation without windows protruding from the house. 

Picture and Bay Windows

Picture windows are large, fixed panes that don’t open but provide unobstructed views of your landscape and surroundings. Bay windows protrude from the wall, creating additional interior space and often incorporating operable windows on the sides.

Other Window Types

Here are some other common window types:

• Garden windows are similar to bay windows but tend to be smaller. They’re often found in kitchens and can be used as a greenhouse-like space.
• Glass blocks windows use thick, solid glass blocks and can enhance the privacy for a space. They’re popular for bathrooms and basements.
• Single-hung windows only have one operable sash, compared to a double-hung window that has two.
• Specialty windows are custom-designed to fit desired designs, shapes, or sizes.
• Storm windows are installed over existing windows and provide additional insulation.

Energy Efficiency in Modern Windows

Today’s windows are designed with energy efficiency in mind, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs while improving comfort. Some common energy-efficient features include:

• Low-emissivity (low-e) coatings: These microscopic layers reflect heat while allowing light to pass through, keeping homes cool in summer and warm in winter.
• Insulating gases: Argon or krypton gas between double or triple panes increases the window’s insulating properties.
• U-factor: Measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping. Lower numbers indicate better insulation.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Indicates how much solar radiation passes through the window. Lower numbers mean less heat gain, which is desirable in warm climates.

Tackling Window Installation

Installing windows can be a complex task that requires careful consideration of your skills and the project’s scope. First, you need to think about the extent of the window installation project and then consider whether you want to do the project yourself or hire a professional.

Replacement Windows vs. New Construction Windows

Replacement windows are designed to fit into existing window openings. They’re a good choice if the existing window frame is in good condition. Replacement windows are also usually cheaper compared to new construction options. However, the price to install windows can depend on a number of factors, including the material and energy rating. For example, wood tends to be more expensive, while vinyl is more affordable.

New construction windows are often used in new homes or additions, but they can also be necessary if the existing window frame is damaged or rotted. They’re also required when changing the size or shape of the window opening.

DIY vs. Professional

Installing windows can be a straightforward DIY project for some homeowners, but mistakes can impact your window warranty, damage the existing frame, or result in a poor seal. You should only tackle it if you’re confident in your abilities and have basic carpentry skills and knowledge of proper sealing and flashing techniques. You’ll also have to be comfortable with the necessary tools, including a level, caulk gun, and power drill.

Professional installation is recommended if you’re not comfortable installing your own window, you’re dealing with large or complex units, or the installation is on upper floors or hard-to-reach areas. You should also call a professional if you’re replacing windows in an older home that could have lead paint or if you’re changing window sizes or styles, which may require structural modifications.

Common Window Issues and Repairs

Here are a few common window problems you could run into and how to repair them:

• Broken panes often require a professional for repair, especially for upper-story windows. The broken glass will need to be removed and the frame needs to be cleaned. New glass can be installed with glazing points and putty.
• Rotted frames can be repaired using epoxy wood filler, sanding, and repainting if the rot is minor. Extensive rot may require partial or complete frame replacement, and it’s typically a job for professionals.
• Stuck sashes are usually caused by paint build up, broken sash cords, or warped wood. Depending on the cause, you can clean paint from the tracks, replace sash cords, lubricate the tracks, or adjust hardware.

Window Maintenance

To care for your windows, keeping them looking great and extending their life, you should:

• Clean: You can clean your window glass using a glass cleaner. For wooden frames, use a lightly dampened cloth. For other types of frames, opt for warm water and a mild soap or detergent.
• Inspect: Inspecting your windows regularly can help you spot issues. Check the glass, frame, and sash. Look for condensation between the window panes, and if the window can open, open and close it to make sure it’s operating smoothly.
• Repaint frames: Window frames should be repainted once every three to four years.
• Seal gaps: If you spot any gaps in your window during inspections or you’ve noticed a draft, seal the gaps with caulk or spray foam insulation.

Our Conclusion

Windows can impact your home’s energy efficiency, appearance, and even your mood. By understanding the various types, materials, and features available, you can make informed decisions when updating or replacing your windows. After your windows are installed, be sure to regularly care for them and quickly repair any issues to prevent further damage.