Types of windows

Glazing or Glass. Low-Emissivity Coatings. Spectrally Selective Coatings. Gas Fills and Spacers. Operating Types. Traditional operating types include: Awning. Hinged at the top and open outward. Because the sash closes by pressing against the frame, they generally have lower air leakage rates than sliding windows.

Hinged at the bottom and open inward. Like both awning and casement, they generally have lower air leakage rates because the sash closes by pressing against the frame. Single- and double-sliding. Both sashes slide horizontally in a double-sliding window. Only one sash slides in a single-sliding window. Like single- and double-hung windows, they generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows. Fixed panes that don't open.

When installed properly they're airtight but are not suitable in places where window ventilation and egress is desired. Single- and double-hung. Both sashes slide vertically in a double-hung window. Only the bottom sash slides upward in a single-hung window.

These sliding windows generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows. Hinged at the sides. Like awning windows, they generally have lower air leakage rates than sliding windows because the sash closes by pressing against the frame. If your budget is tight, storm windows are less expensive than new, energy-efficient windows. Energy performance ratings make it easier to shop for energy-efficient windows, doors, and skylights.

Choose window treatments and attachments that allow you to use natural light while reducing the heat gained. In Japanese architecture , doorways and windows have always had diverse and multiple roles. Lighting and ventilation were the most obvious, but not the only ones. The Japanese culture of enjoying nature found its way into window design since one of the most important roles of a window is to provide a preferably bright and beautiful view. The window view has the role of an artistic painting or another decorative image.

That way, it gives both the exterior and the interior the final and the most exquisite touch. One of the features of Japanese window architecture is to make a composition of several pieces of windows side by side, each showing another part of the same outdoor scene. The Palladian window is a large, three-section window. Its center section is arched, higher and wider than the other two. The other two sections are rectangular.

Palladian windows were common in the architecture of the Renaissance and are characteristic of neoclassical style. The name for this type of window comes from Andrea Palladio , a famous Italian architect of the Renaissance, who revived the classical Greek aesthetics of the arched openings.

Its purpose is to maximize both the amount of light and space inside the house. Bay windows come in a range of designs — box, circle, square, and polygonal. They usually have three openings, as casement constructions, in angled projections. The origins of bay windows can be found in Renaissance England.

They were later widely used in Victorian and Baroque architecture, for the reason that such constructions were able to fulfill two main rules of Baroque architecture: the abundance of light and the importance of decoration and ornaments.

Bow windows are a more complex variation of the bay windows. Their construction is curved , creating a rounded appearance on the outside of the building. While bay windows consist of three sashes, the bow windows have four or more elements in the form of an arch. That is why they allow more light into the house. Because of their curved shape, they have found their modern use on the corners of buildings, allowing a view from two different sides of the room.

This type of window is part of the roof construction. It usually has an outward opening , because its purpose is not only lighting but also ventilation. A skylight is a window that is stationary , which means it cannot be opened.

Its function is merely lighting. The usage of roof windows is especially important in attics and lofts, where the roof construction takes over the role of walls, thus needs to be used for window installation besides its primary purpose. There are plenty of design options in building a roof window. If you need to save space, they can be top-hinged. There is also a center-pivot roof window, ideal for a room with high humidity like bathrooms and kitchens. For easy roof access, there is a left or right-handed sash roof window.

Not only does it add extra light and fresh air, but it also provides access to the outdoors. Once you open it, because it has a stylized fence around it, it lets you use the roof space like a terrace or a balcony. Famous for their use as the portholes of ships, but also as a common feature in dormers of French classical architecture, circular windows have been in use since the 16th century.

They are Gothic in origin — rose windows were used in the building of churches. In modern architecture, circular windows are used whenever there is a need to give a final, elegant, and unique touch to the interior design. Because of its circle-shaped frame, this type of window has limited types of opening mechanisms.

On the other hand, because of the shape of the frame and the absence of corners, a circular window requires less space. Windows have always been one of the vital elements of a building. It is only their design and material that were changing through time. Home renovation can be quite a challenge. Our awning windows are often placed above or below other windows, such as picture windows, to add more light and open up a space.

Mixing awning windows with other window types also adds architectural interest and creates an opportunity for increased ventilation — especially in wet climates. Awning windows are a popular solution for regions that experience a lot of rain throughout the year. Thanks to their design, this type of window can be left open during the rain, which makes them ideal for letting in fresh air even in wet weather.

Pella's awning windows are available in a number of product lines across three material types. Many of our awning windows give homeowners the option of upgrading to dual- and triple-pane glass to help save you energy on heating and cooling your home. Customize your awning windows to your design preference with different hardware styles and finishes, grille patterns and integrated blinds and shades.

One of the most popular window designs thanks to ease of use, Pella casement windows provide a clear connection to the outdoors. Casement windows are hinged at the side and swing outward to the left or right with a fold-away crank. This type of window is perfect for letting in daylight and fresh air. Casement windows are a great option for difficult-to-reach places like over the kitchen sink or in tight corners. With a clean, modern look, casement windows are well suited for any style of home.

Available in wood, fiberglass or vinyl, casement windows are offered across a variety of product lines and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Join your casement windows together to add character to your home. When horizontal space is limited, consider a 2-high stacked casement window. The options for mixing and matching casement windows with other styles are virtually endless, so you can create a look personalized for you.

Double-hung windows have been adding character to homes for years. One of the most recognizable designs, Pella double-hung windows can be used in any home, from classic to contemporary. Double-hung windows are made of two movable sashes that open from the top or bottom to allow two options for ventilation. Double-hung window sashes tilt in for easy cleaning, and open and close with ease.

Pella offers a wide variety of sizes and options, including large double-hung windows, double-hung wood windows and many more. Pella single-hung windows are raised from the bottom for ventilation, while the top sash remains stationary. Incredibly energy efficient, single-hung windows are ideal for places where a top sash would be difficult to open, such as above a kitchen sink or in patios or walkways.

Choosing a single-hung window will also make cleaning easier , as the sashes are easy to access. Pella offers single-hung windows in wood, fiberglass and vinyl. A simple and ever-popular option, sliding windows are beautifully uncomplicated. Two side-by-side horizontal sliding windows operate on a track to open with ease. Sliding windows are an ideal solution for areas where you will frequently need to open and close a window. Sliding windows are also extremely easy to care for, saving you time and energy.

Sliding windows by Pella are available in fiberglass and vinyl options — both durable materials. Both bay and bow windows allow you to expand your view, even with limited wall space. The difference between bay and bow windows is simple. A bay window is typically a fixed window in the center joined together with venting windows on each side.

A bow window consists of four or more windows joined together to form a graceful curve. Bay and bow windows allow more light to enter a room and give you extra space inside of a home. These windows are a great option for bedrooms , a home office, a dining room or library. Unique to Pella, our Lifestyle Series bay or bow windows are available with integrated blinds and shades for blocking intense sunshine or creating privacy when you want it.

Large picture windows are perfect for showcasing the outdoors. Picture windows, also known as fixed windows, are inoperable, meaning they do not open, but they allow for light to enter into your home with ease. Large picture windows pair well with operable windows, such as double-hung windows or casement windows, to create a unique look for your home.