Window Shopping? Here Are the Different Types of Windows

New windows might not be as exciting to pick out as new flooring or granite for your countertops, but they can have a big impact on how your home looks and feels. With so many types of windows available, it can be overwhelming to choose what you want. Narrowing down your options starts by understanding what makes each type different.

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There are several types of windows, each with different features, looks and functionality. The following list of the different window types can help you choose the best window style for your home.

Casement Windows

Casement windows swing out to open for ventilation, similar to a door swinging open. This offers lots of ventilation since the entire window can open. They usually have cranks that make it easier to open and close them. Casement windows work well when you want lots of ventilation, such as in a bathroom or kitchen. You might also put them in places where the window is hard to reach.

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Single-Hung Windows

A single-hung window features a top and bottom sash, but only one opens. It's a vertically opening window, with the top sash being fixed and the bottom sash opening. They're a cheap option, and they're common in bathrooms and bedrooms.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are similar, with two vertically arranged sashes. The main difference is that both sashes open, so you can open the window from the top, bottom or both. Like single-hung options, these windows are good in bedrooms and bathrooms and give you more ventilation than single-hung windows. You might choose them for a child's bedroom, so you can open the top sash and leave the bottom closed for safety.

Awning Windows

This type of window has a glass panel that tilts out to open, instead of sliding along the frame. It has a hinge at the top of the panel that opens, and you can push it outward from the bottom, typically with a crank mechanism to operate it. This can let you get ventilation without letting outdoor debris or rain into your house. They're often smaller, so you might use them in a small space where you want some light and ventilation, or you can place them at the top of a larger window.

Horizontal Sliding Windows

Instead of having a sash that slides up and down, these types of windows have sashes that slide horizontally, allowing full top-to-bottom ventilation. The window panels slide along a track at the top and bottom of the window opening. They're typically wider than single- and double-hung windows, which makes them ideal in larger bedrooms or common areas that can accommodate a larger opening.

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Picture Windows

The point of a picture window is to give you a large, unobstructed view of the outdoors. It's typically a fixed window, meaning it won't open for ventilation, and this style can be quite large. They're good in common rooms, such as a living room, where privacy isn't an issue. You might choose a picture window when the view outside the window is too good to miss or when you want lots of light in the space.

Bay Windows

If you want to make your room feel more spacious with lots of sunlight or have a better view outside, a bay window could be an option. It projects out from the side of your home instead of sitting flush with the exterior wall. It has three fixed panels positioned angularly in the opening. The center panel is usually a larger fixed picture window, and the side panels are usually smaller and might open for ventilation. You might have a window seat in the area that sticks out. Bay windows are popular in living rooms or larger common rooms that can accommodate a bigger window.

Bow Windows

A bow window is similar to a bay window, but it usually has more panels of glass and a more rounded approach. Each section typically has the same type of window, instead of one larger window in the middle. They also work well in larger spaces, such as living rooms, where you want more space.

Garden Windows

Another window type that sticks out from the side of the home is a garden window. It's usually a lot smaller than a bay or bow window and looks like a mini greenhouse. It typically has three horizontal panels like a bay window, plus a fourth glass panel at the top to let in maximum light. They're common above kitchen sinks, or anywhere you want to have plants.

Glass Block Windows

This window type uses individual glass blocks attached together to fill the opening. They're usually frosted or otherwise block the view, and they don't open. You often find them in spaces where you want natural light while having privacy, which makes them popular for bathrooms.