Kitchen Windows

{{Infobox
|title = Kitchen Windows
|image        = [[File:Space holder.jpg|215px|alt=Kitchen Windows]]
|header5 = Other Names:
|data6   = Windows for Kitchens, Replacement Kitchen Windows 
|header7 = Description:
|data8   = Kitchen windows add light and air to one of the most important rooms in the house.}}

The kitchen functions as a place where food is prepared and eaten, but in many homes the kitchen is also a gathering space for family members and guests who can socialize and catch up on each other's lives in the cozy kitchen atmosphere. When planning a remodeled kitchen design, the style and placement of the kitchen's windows must be carefully considered to allow for adequate ventilation, including cross ventilation, as well as providing lighting to facilitate kitchen work. Equally importantly, the kitchen windows should be planned so that the people inside the kitchen have an opportunity to fully enjoy the outside view. 

== Considerations ==
Choosing good [[Replacement-Windows|replacement windows]] for a kitchen involves planning ahead, taking into account a window's venting, energy performance and condensation build-up. This will be dependent on the available space and planned design of the kitchen as well as the appliances and furnishings that will be placed in the kitchen. 

=== Framing Materials ===
Framing material options for replacement kitchen windows include [[Wood Windows|all-wood frames]], [[Wood Clad Windows|wood clad frames]], [[Vinyl Windows|vinyl frames]],[[Aluminum Windows|aluminum frames]], [[Fiberglass Windows|fiberglass frames]] and [[Composite Windows|composite material frames]]. Each framing material offers a different level of thermal insulation so the choice will be dependent on the climate and the homeowner's interest in purchasing energy efficient kitchen windows.

=== Condensation ===
Cooking creates moisture and humidity within the kitchen. This often results in a build-up of condensation on aluminum frame windows in cold-weather climates. In such areas, an alternate window frame is recommended.

=== Architectural Designs ===
Designing a kitchen with windows involves an overview of the available space and the placement of the kitchen appliances and furnishings. The architectural design may place the stove and oven near a window to facilitate venting or place a kitchen counter next to a window where the homeowner can enjoy the view or watch children playing in the yard while working. Window styles must take into account the activity that will be taking place near each window to ensure that the window's placement or opening mechanics will not interfere with the functions of the kitchen, or may actually enhance the kitchen's functions.  

=== Types of Kitchen Windows ===
Replacement window alternatives for a kitchen area include casement windows, double and single-hung windows, gliding windows and bay and bow windows.

==== Casement Windows ====
[[Casement windows|casement windows]] open fully, offering an especially significant venting option for kitchens. If the kitchen area is small, an outward swinging casement window is indicated so that it does not interfere with the movements within the kitchen. 

==== Double and Single-Hung Windows ====
[[Double hung Windows|Double hung]] and [[Single Hung Windows|single-hung]] replacement windows present a window option that allows for adequate kitchen lighting and venting. Since heat rises, a double hung window allows for better kitchen ventilation as the steam from the hot foot rises and can be released through the top of the open double-hung window into the air outside. 

=== Horizontal Sliding Windows ===
[[Horizontal Sliding Windows|Horizontal Sliding windows]] are an economical replacement kitchen window option. Horizontal sliding windows are available as either XO models (in which one sash is fixed while the other side slides back and forth) or as X0X (in which the middle sash is fixed while the two side sashes glide back and forth. 

=== Bay and Bow Windows ===
Many kitchens, especially those with a breakfast nook or other eating area, include a [[Bay Windows]]bay or [[Bow Windows|bow window]]. These windows provide added space, an extra seating area and an opportunity to incorporate a unique window design as part of the kitchen's architectural plan. Kitchen bay and bow windows may be comprised of all operable windows (casements or double hungs) or a combination of picture windows and operable windows. 

=== Awning Windows ===
Adding an [[Awning Windows|awning replacement window]] to a kitchen increases the kitchen's ventilation performance. Awning windows may be installed singly, in a continuous row below the kitchen's ceiling or above another operating or non-operating window.

== Kitchen Window Tips ==

Interior decorators and architects have suggestions for homeowners to incorporate their kitchen replacement window plan to the advantage of the kitchen's design.

=== Blinds ===
Homeowners may add a fabric roller-blind to a kitchen window to let the natural light in while preserving privacy. Light or neutral tones are advised. If the blind is positioned near the sink or counter where it may get greasy food stains, a washable fabric is indicated. Another window addition possibility involves aluminum or wooden venetian blinds which allow the homeowner to control the amount of light coming into the kitchen. These blinds should be easy to clean. Timber blinds should be painted or stained in a tone that complements the kitchen walls and cabinets.

=== Low Placement ===
A low window placement may serve as a featured center of a kitchen. A low window can act as storage space for kitchen items or, with a nearby shelf, as an opportunity to display a collection.

=== High Placement ===
If wall space does not permit enough area for the desired daylighting and venting for the desired quantity of window installations, the kitchen design may incorporate a continuous line of windows situated above kitchen cabinets or appliances.

{{Replacement Window Locations‎}}

[[Category:Replacement Windows]]