There are a ton of different window types on the market these days. Impact windows, single-hung, double-hung, sliding, picture, bay, casement, awning—the list goes on and on. But, what’s the best type of window for your home? How can you pick the best windows for each opening in your home to maximize curb appeal, energy efficiency, and safety?
Let’s discuss each window type: what it is, what makes it unique, and what applications they’re great for. That way, you can get a better idea of which windows will be the best fit for your home!
The Impact Window Type
Unlike the rest of the windows in this article, the impact window type isn’t a distinct form of window, but rather a modification of other existing window types. The name ‘impact window’ can be applied to any window that has been designed and tested to withstand strong impacts from flying debris as well as continuous pressure from high-speed winds.
For example, you can have single-hung impact windows, double-hung impact windows, impact horizontal sliding windows, etc.
While impact windows will have the same general shape and hardware as their non-impact counterparts, they will have discreet modifications that make them more resistant to physical force, such as:
- Reinforced frames. To stand up to constant pressure from high-speed winds, impact windows typically have reinforced frames that are less likely to bend or break when exposed to hurricane force winds.
- Multiple layers of impact glass. Impact windows use tempered impact safety glass that resists strong impacts. Additional layers of glass provide protection for the home even if the top layer of glass is cracked or broken by a particularly extreme impact.
- Flexible laminate interlayers. In addition to impact resistant glass, flexible laminate interlayers between the glass panes flex with impacts and prevent glass shards and other hazards from entering the home if the glass does break.
Impact windows are a must-have for homeowners throughout the greater Tampa Bay area, as the region falls within a designated wind borne debris region and the Florida Building Code (FBC) specifies impact windows for compliance with local building code standards.
Window Type: Single Hung Windows
Single hung windows are one of the most common window types you’ll see in Florida. They consist of two window sashes in a window frame: one fixed and one movable. The fixed sash (usually the top sash) does not move while the lower sash can be moved vertically up and down to open and close the window opening.
These windows use counterbalance systems to offset the weight of the window sash so they’re easier to lift and don’t slide back down on their own when lifted. However, there are limits to how effective the counterbalance can be. The larger the window opening, the heavier the sash needs to be, making it more difficult to lift the window.
Single Hung Window Pros:
- Inexpensive.
- Easy to install.
- Unobtrusive.
Single Hung Window Cons:
- Only openable from the bottom.
- The ‘Plain Jane’ of Windows.
- Larger openings may make the sash too heavy to comfortably use.
Where It Works Best:
This is a great window type for small-to-midsize window openings in the home, such as in bedrooms, where you want a classic, easy-to-use window without having to pay a premium.
Window Type: Double Hung Windows
From the outside, double-hung windows are nearly impossible to distinguish from single-hung windows. However, where single-hungs only have one movable sash, both of the sashes in a double-hung window can open and close.
This lets you open the window from the top or the bottom, which some homeowners may find more convenient than having to open the window from the bottom. Additionally, with tilt shoes on more modern double-hung windows, you can tilt the window sashes into the home for easier cleaning.
Double Hung Window Pros
- Openable from the top or bottom.
- Tilt shoe equipped models are easy to clean.
- Unobtrusive.
Double Hung WIndow Cons
- Slightly more costly than single hung windows.
- Not as visually distinctive as some other windows.
- Larger openings may make the sashes too heavy to comfortably lift.
Where They Work Best
These windows work in the same situations where single-hung windows work, but with the added benefit of being easier to clean from the interior of the home. This makes double-hung windows a perfect fit for rooms on higher floors where getting at the outside of a window may be more difficult.
Window Type: Horizontal Sliding Glass
Horizontal sliders have multiple window sashes that may be fixed or movable in different configurations. These windows use large rollers to move their sashes side to side with ease.
Horizontal Sliding Window Pros
- Opens and closes relatively easily for their size.
- Not prone to accidental open/closing.
- Variety of moving/fixed sash configurations available.
Horizontal Sliding Window Cons
- Tracks may require semi-frequent cleaning to maintain ease of operation.
- Windows with more sashes may be more costly.
Where They Work Best
Horizontal sliders are a great fit for larger window openings where other windows might encounter functional problems due to heavy sash weights. You’ll often find them in kitchens over sinks or in use for especially large front window openings.
Window Type: Bay Windows
These are some of the most visually distinctive windows you can put onto your home. Bay windows actually consist of several different windows in a framework that adds to the side of your home’s structure.
This structure includes a ‘hip roof’ that covers the top of the protruding window structure and added protruding wall structures. Most bay windows have three windows, but there are some that may have more than this.
Each of the three windows can be other kinds of windows, such as picture, casement, or double/single hung windows. A common arrangement is three picture windows or a picture window in the center with casements or single-hung windows on either side.
Bay Window Pros
- Let in more light from different angles for more light throughout the day.
- Visually distinctive.
Bay Window Cons
- Can be pricey (it’s three windows in one).
- May not be a good fit for all architectural styles.
- May be more susceptible to impact risks.
Where They Work Best
Bay windows are a great fit for main rooms, studies, and other rooms where you want to have more natural light throughout the day. A common use for these windows is to create a ‘reading nook’ where guests can sit, relax, and enjoy books or other hobbies.
Window Type: Picture Windows
Picture windows are a type of fixed window. This means that they do not open or close like the other window types in this article. This makes their construction simpler and sturdier than other window types.
Picture windows often have slimmer frames since there doesn’t need to be a separate sash, giving you a less obstructed view from your home to the outside.
Picture Window Pros
- Large, clear viewing area.
- May be less expensive than other windows of similar size.
- High rigidity and stability.
- Easy to install.
Picture Window Cons
- Cannot open.
- Does not comply with egress window requirements in the FBC.
Where They Work Best
Picture windows are a great option for rooms with multiple window openings where you want a clear, unobstructed view and for when you want a window that won’t be openable at all for security reasons. However, it’s important to keep in mind the requirement for “basements, habitable attic, and every sleeping room” to have “not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening” outlined in the Florida Building Code.
Window Type: Casement Windows
Casement windows have hinges and armatures that let the window swing open horizontally and remain fixed in place, moving the sash almost entirely out of the way of the window opening. This results in greater air flow into the room when the casement is open.
It also places the entire weight of the window sash on one side of the window frame when open, which can put stress on the window when the sash is particularly large and heavy.
Casement WIndow Pros
- Maximizes air flow when open.
- Difficult to open from the outside.
- Visually distinctive and appealing.
Casement WIndow Cons
- More complicated installation.
- Not suitable for particularly large, wide window openings because of the way the weight rests on the window frame.
- May be more expensive than other window types of the same size.
Where They Work Best
Casement windows are great for small, narrow window openings in the home where you want the best possible air circulation. Examples might include bedrooms, smoking rooms, or some bathrooms or kitchens if the window openings are on the smaller side.
Window Type: Awning Window
Like casements, awning windows use hinges and armatures to swing open. The difference is that they open on the vertical axis, leaving the window sash covering the window opening like an umbrella. This helps to keep out light rain during regular weather.
Opening vertically instead of horizontally also changes the way the weight of the window sash sits in the window frame when open. Rather than resting and pulling on one side of the window frame, it rests on the bottom and top of the window frame.
Awning Window Pros
- Good air flow when open.
- Places less stress on the sides of the window frame than casement windows.
- Can block light rainfall even when open.
Awning Window Cons
- May be more expensive to install than some other window types.
- Increased complexity of installation and maintenance because of the armature mechanism.
Where They Work Best
Awning windows are one of the best window types to use in window openings that are short and wide. For example, bathroom windows, particularly over showers or tubs, tend to be short and wide. Here, awning windows make great ventilation options for letting steam leave the room more easily to prevent condensation accumulation that contributes to mold and mildew.
So, Which Window Type Is the Best for Your Home?
It’s hard to say that any one window type is categorically better for homes than all the others. This is an assessment that should be performed on a case-by-case basis. Some windows will work better than others for certain window openings in the home.
Also, there’s your own personal preferences to consider. A window that’s ideal for one person might not be appealing to someone else. That’s one of the reasons why Karoly Windows & Doors takes a consultative approach to window installation.
One of our experts will go over your window options with you as we check your home’s window openings. This way, we can help you pick the best window types for every opening in your home. We’ll point out the pros and cons of different windows so that you get the perfect windows for your home.
Reach out today to request a quote on new windows from the top installers in Tampa Bay!
