When visiting the mall or grocery store, most of us find it easy to comparison shop by considering brand names and pricing. If we are shopping online many of us will search for reviews or take a look at different websites to find the best deal. Shopping for an essential home product like windows can be very different and intimidating. Windows in Ottawa aren’t something the typical shopper looks at every week and the options can seem overwhelming.
New windows are a big purchase so it is important to understand all of the options before deciding which is best for you. As with many other purchases, there are two main factors to consider during the shopping process: form and function. First and foremost, your windows need to work for your home in a practical way meaning they increase your comfort and keep energy bills low. In addition to being functional, your new windows should also suit the style of your home contributing to your curb appeal as well as resale value.
With these two factors in mind, please read on to learn more about ten basic window types:
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top, opening in a way that forms an awning to keep rain out and allow air to circulate.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are normally made of three or four sections with the middle section parallel to the walls of the house and the side sections projecting at angles of 30, 45 or 90 degrees.
Bow Windows
Bow windows are similar to bay windows in that they project from the house, however bow windows usually have four or five sections and are shaped in a curve rather than using sharp angles.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged at the side and can be opened using a handle, crank or lever.
Combo Windows
Combo windows refer to the combination of a picture window with one or two single-hung, double-hung, or slider windows in a strong frame.
Single Hung Windows
Single hung windows consist of a stationary top sash and a sliding bottom sash.
Double Hung Windows
Double hung windows allow both the top and bottom sash to slide within the frame.
Single Slider Windows
Single slider windows can be compared to single hung windows lying on their side so that one sash is fixed and the other slides to open.
Double Slider Windows
Double slider windows are similar to single slider windows, but both sashes are able slide sideways.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are large, fixed windows with small or no glazing bars to create an unobstructed view of the outside world.
You can learn more about each of these types of windows. We hope this basic information will help you to feel more at ease about selecting the best windows for your home. We strongly encourage you to contact us so we can discuss your specific needs in detail and assist you with the purchase and installation process. You can reach our glass experts by live chat on our website, by telephone, or by visiting our showroom.