Windows

Windows are one of the necessary elements of the home, and the perfect window will set the look for any room. However, the window relies on its frame to look good and every window has a different function. It is important to select a window that suits your house and purpose.

Popular Styles of Windows

Double Hung Windows
These are common in all styles of homes and come with two sliding sashes that move independently of each other. They are made more often from timber, but aluminium is also available.

Awning Windows
They are fantastic for leaving open during wet weather. Awning windows are a window that operates using a winding device. A very practical window as they can also be left open without worrying about security.

Bi Fold Windows
The purpose of these windows is to allow the outdoors in. The best bi folds are the ones that open outwards. This way they allow your room more space.

Sliding Windows
These are a very common and versatile window and suitable to most home styles.  Sliding windows don’t interfere with the space around a window due to the fact they don’t open outwards or inwards.

Casement Windows
These are windows that generally opens outwards at a ninety degree angle. Casement windows can be found in classic and heritage homes and also look fantastic in retro and art deco homes.

Window frames

Every window needs a window frame. There are several types available on the market. The following is an overview of the most popular.

Aluminium or Metal                                                                                                              
They come with the advantage of being very strong, light and maintenance free. However, their downfall is that they conduct heat rapidly so it is important to have an insulating plastic strip, placed in between the outside and inside of the frame or sash.

Composite                                                                                                                         
Composite wood materials such as laminated strand lumber and particle board are used in the frames for windows making them very stable, with similar structural and thermal properties as genuine wood, but they don’t suffer the moisture and decay as normal wood.

Fibreglass                                                                                                                            
Fibreglass window frames have a better thermal performance compared to vinyl or wood. This comes about from having the feature of air cavities that are filled with insulation. These frames are also very dimensionally stable.

Vinyl                                                                                                                                     
Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with ultraviolet stabilisers to prevent sunlight from degrading the material, these vinyl frames are very versatile window frames, with good insulating value. Although also having good moisture resistance, they may expand and warp at high temperatures, or crack in very low temperatures. Insulated vinyl frames are available and perform better than standard vinyl frames and wood frames at keeping heat in or out.

Wood                                                                                                                                    
These window frames can give a stunning solid appearance and they can be well insulated, however, they will expand and contract in hot and cold weather conditions, and are generally thicker and heavier than other frames. Another negative is that they do require the most maintenance.

Windows as Walls

When you have a stunning view or you would like to create flow between your indoor and outdoor areas, why not consider using large windows in place of walls.

In order to do this in your current home you need to take into account structural considerations. With new homes this is not necessary as your builder will have knowledge of the structural needs in order to have large windows in place of solid walls. With renovations on older homes you will need to consult an engineer to find a way to support the load that comes down from the roof when windows replace walls. One way engineers solve this is to install large support beams.

Now that you have structured your house to cater for large windows, the next step is to select the right type of glass for you windows. Double glaze is the best as it stops heat or cold from entering or leaving your home. Make sure you glass windows have ultraviolet protection so that you minimise fading with your window coverings and furniture. If you have children, then safety glass is essential as it will give protection in the case of accidents.

Next consider what practical functions you want your new windows to do and consider the space around the windows. Do you want them to open outwards/inwards or are you seeking sliding fixed windows. If you don’t want your windows to open outwards then your preference will either be sliding or double hung windows.

Why not look at building an entire wall out of glass bricks? These will allow in extra light at the same time as being opaque where people can’t see in, making them ideal for apartments.

Lastly you’ll need to install the most suitable window coverings. Consider vertical blinds, shades, curtains or window shutters, each having their benefits.