Are you considering replacing your home's windows, but don’t know where to begin?

Some may think that choosing windows for your home is easy, but in fact, there are so many things to consider, such as the window's function, your local climate, and your home's style. One or all of these may impact which type of window you choose, and not understanding your options can make the process much longer and harder.

In this article, we will walk you through some of the most common window options and their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Double-Hung Windows: One of the most common windows, double-hung windows offer top and bottom sashes that can move vertically. A sash references the enclosed pane of glass inside the window frame.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Better ventilation, natural light
      2. Tilting sashes make them easy to clean
      3. Less secure because they are hard to close properly

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Less efficient than single-hung due to more moving parts, more expensive

1. Single-Hung Windows: Also known as single-sash windows, these are another very common window style in many homes, Unlike the double-hung window, only the bottom sash moves, and the top sash is fixed.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. More affordable than a double-hung
      2. Good energy efficiency

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Don’t come in larger window sizes
      2. Are harder to clean than double-hung

1. Casement Windows: Casement windows are hinged on either side of a window frame and open outward with a crank mechanism up to 90 degrees.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Easy to clean
      2. Great energy efficiency
      3. Easy to control ventilation

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Expensive

1. Awning Windows: Awning windows are hinged at the mid-section of the window and open outward from the bottom. Awning windows can be combined with other window styles. When opening the window creates an awning effect, hence where they got their name.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Controlled ventilation and great for letting fresh air in during the rain
      2. Energy efficient
      3. Affordable

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Hard to clean
      2. Can be a walk-into hazard
      3. Not great for fire escape exits

1. Slider Windows: Slider windows, also known as gliders, operate horizontally, with one sash sliding past the other. They are easy to operate and are most common in contemporary home designs.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Can be the most affordable, depending on brand
      2. Easy to open
      3. Great ventilation

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Cleaning can be difficult if you don’t have a tilt style
      2. Slider tracks are prone to collecting dirt and can cause issues with opening over time
      3. Not as energy-efficient as other options

1. Picture Windows: Picture windows are stationary windows that do not open, providing great views and maximizing natural light. They also offer a clean look that never goes out of style.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Great energy efficiency because they are sealed all the way around
      2. Low maintenance
      3. Affordable

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. No ventilation
      2. Hard to clean
      3. Not many design choices

1. Bay Windows: Bay windows extend outward from the side of a home and typically consist of three windows angled together. They create more interior floor space or a lovely seating area and can also add architectural interest to a home.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Curb appeal
      2. More expensive to install, but less expensive than bow windows

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Reduced wall space
      2. Harder to clean
      3. May not be as energy-efficient

1. Bow Windows: Similar to Bay windows, bow windows protrude from a home. The big difference is that bow windows connect four or more windows together to form a curved structure that doesn’t protrude out as far.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Curb appeal
      2. More natural light
      3. Wide angle views

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Reduced wall space
      2. Harder to clean
      3. Less ventilation
      4. Expensive and hard to install

1. Jalousie Windows: Jalousie windows (also known as louvered windows) consist of horizontal slats of glass that open and close together. They provide good ventilation but are less common in modern construction. Jalousie windows are mostly found in mid-century homes in warm, rainy climates like Florida or Hawaii.

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Ventilation, natural light, easy & inexpensive to repair, aesthetics

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Water leaks, security, pest infestation, poor energy efficiency

1. Clerestory Windows: Clerestory windows are located high on a wall, typically not far from the ceiling. These windows are great for letting light in while maintaining privacy. Very versatile windows as they can complement any home interior. Great for home offices where you want less distraction

1. 1. Advantages

1. 1. 1. Privacy
      2. Great for natural light
      3. Saves wall space

1. 1. Disadvantages

1. 1. 1. Unexpected glare
      2. Can create energy issues