Types of Windows

{{Infobox
|title = Window Styles
|image        = [[File:Space holder.jpg|215px|alt= Window Styles]]
|header5 = Other Names:
|data6   = Replacement Window Styles, Replacement Window Types
|header7 = Description:
|data8   = Types and styles of replacement windows.}}

Choosing a suitable '''window style''' for a home involves considering the home's architectural style, available space, window access, size opening, furnishings, interior and exterior appearance and the window's intended function. Window companies offer a wide range of '''window types''' which allow homeowners to match their window choices to any architectural design and requirement.

[[Replacement-Windows|Replacement windows]] styles are available as operating window and non operating window styles.   

== Operating Windows ==
[[Operating Windows|Operating replacement windows]] open and close with a moveable sash that shifts within the window frame. The sashes reposition by [[Swing Windows|swinging]] on hinges either outwardly or inwardly, moving [[Vertical Sliding Windows|vertically]] or [[Horizontal Sliding Windows|horizontally]] along the frame's inner tracks, shifting back and forth on strap hinges or [[Pivot Windows|pivoting]], [[Tilt and Turn Windows|tilting/turning]] on pivot hinges. 

Operating window styles include single hung windows, double hung windows, horizontal sliding windows, casement windows, mullion windows, French windows, awning and hopper windows, pivot windows, folding windows, egress windows, jalousie windows, garden windows, tilt-turn windows, tilt-slide windows, clerestory windows and dormer windows.

=== Double Hung Windows ===
[[Double Hung Windows|Double hung windows]] are produced with offset upper and lower sashes, each of which moves vertically within the window frame due to an internal mechanism which permits the panes to be easily lowered and raised.

=== Single Hung Windows ===
[[Single Hung Windows|Single hung windows]] are similar to a double hung window but have only one moveable sash. As with the double hung windows the two sashes are offset but only the lower sash can move vertically within the window frame.  

=== Horizontal Sliding Windows ===
[[Horizontal Sliding Windows|Horizontal sliding windows]] are also known as sliders, gliders and horizontal gliding windows. The sashes of the window slides open and closed horizontally. The window has two or more sashes which are mounted and installed on parallel rails within the window's frame. They are a moderately-priced operational window option.

=== Casement Windows ===
[[Casement Windows|Casement windows]] involve a single sash or side-by-side sashes which are attached to the window frame.The hinges are located along the window's horizontal side. Casement windows can be attached as [[Inswing-Windows|inswing]] or [[Outswing-Windows|outswing]] windows, depending on the location of the hinges. 

==== Mullion Windows ====
[[Mullion Windows|Mullion windows]] are windows which are installed alongside the mullion -- a vertical frame member that separates two sashes of an inswing or outswing window. Casement windows with mullions operate as either crank-out or push-out windows.

==== French Windows ====
[[French Windows|French windows]] are created with two side-by-side casement windows which can open either inward or outward, similar to the operation of French doors. The French windows may or may not include a mullion bar. 

==== Awning and Hopper Windows ====
[[Awning Windows|Awning windows]] and [[Hopper Windows|Hopper windows]] are similar to casement windows since the window sash is attached to the window frame with hinges. Awning windows are attached by hinges which are located on the window sash's top frame while hopper windows are attached by hinges which are located on the window sash's bottom frame. Awning and hopper windows may be installed as inswing or outswing sashes. 

=== Pivot Windows ===
[[Pivot Windows|pivot windows]] have a window sash which revolves within the window's frame, allowing a wider opening than generally common.  The pivot window's sash is secured to the window frame with a pivot mechanism which is located mid-way along the opposing window sashes. This mechanism attaches the window sash to the frame, enabling the window to swing inwards either vertically or horizontally. The swing mechanism controls the direction in which the window swings open and leaves the sash, held by opposing pivots, suspended in the middle of the frame. Pivot windows open completely. 

=== Folding Windows ===
[[Folding Windows|Folding windows]] open and close in an accordion style. These windows, also called bi-fold windows, accordion windows or concertina windows are designed for large openings. Folding windows are created by a bank of windows which are hinged together. They have wheels which roll the window panels along the top or bottom track to operate the window. The window opens, accordion-style, as an entire unit and closes by folding together at the end of the row into a single panel. 

=== Egress Windows ===
[[Egress Emergency Exit Windows|Egress emergency exit windows]] are built to satisfy local code requirements which require that all bedroom areas have access to a door or to a window that can function as a door. Replacement egress windows are generally installed in [[Attic Windows|attics]] and [[Basement Windows|basements]]. They include horizontal sliding windows and casement windows which open easily and can be installed at a low enough level to allow for easy exit in case of an emergency.  

=== Jalouise Windows Windows ===
[[Jalouise Windows|Jalouise windows]], also known as louvre windows, are made with large movable horizontal slats/louvers. These louvers are built into the window frame and resemble overbuilt blinds. The slats separate when the window is open. They rest against each other when the window is closed. Modern jalousie windows have thin profiles which compliment any home design.

=== Garden Windows ===
[[Garden Windows|Garden windows]] are frequently installed in a garden room or in a kitchen as a window area in which it is possible to place plants for sunlight and display. This window is designed as a 3-D window in which the side panels are non-operating panes and the front panel shifts in and out on sliding hinges to operate the window. The bottom of the garden window is made of moisture-resistant material and can be removed to easily clean the area.  

=== Tilt-Turn Windows ===
[[Tilt Turn Windows|Tilt-turn windows]] present dual functionality. The sash of a replacement tilt-turn window opens either by tilting inward or by turning inward for flexibility in ventilation. The tilt-turn window sash can tilt open into a room to provide full venting and a clear view or can turn inward to enable venting through the window's top. Tilt-turn window sashes attach to the frame with multi-functional hardware that enables the window to operate by either tilting inward or turning completely open, left or right. 

=== Tilt-Slide Windows ===
[[Tilt Slide Windows|Tilt-slide windows]] operate in multiple ways for flexibility in cleaning, venting and use as an egress window. A tilt-slide window sash can tilt inwards into the room or slide open as a moveable panel slides behind a fixed panel. These alternative operating modes allow homeowners to tilt the window sash inwards for easy cleaning and to draw in air. Open venting is facilitated when the sliding portion of the window slides open to the left or right.
 
=== Clerestory Windows ===
[[Clerestory Windows|Clerestory windows]] are rectangular-shaped windows which are installed below the ceiling of a room, either as a single row of windows or above other windows or doors. They are placed above eye level and may be operable or non-operable windows. Operable clerestory windows allow additional ventilation into a room and all clerestory windows allow additional light into a room.

=== Dormer Windows ===
[[Dormer Windows|Dormer windows]] are included as part of a dormer architectural structure. Dormer windows are set in a dormer unit which has an independent roof structure which juts out from the main roof of the house. Dormer replacement windows are the focal point of the dormer formation which protrudes from the plane of a sloping roof surface. The dormers occupy less than a half of the roof space. Dormer windows are generally smaller than the windows below. The window incorporates the features of the dormer structure and provide venting for the room to ensure that the dormer room can be utilized as living space within the roof of a building.

== Non-Operating Windows ==
[[Non Operating Windows|Non-operating windows]] are stationary windows with a glass panel set into a non-operating frame. There is no moveable sash in a non-operating window.  Non operating windows are generally lower-cost window options than operating windows and allow for more flexibility in size, shape and design. Non-operating windows include special shape windows, transom windows, storefront windows, gable windows, roof windows, roof lantern windows, skylight windows, round top windows, oriel windows, fixed frame windows/picture windows, block glass windows, mullion windows, arch windows and multi-lit windows. 

=== Special Shape Windows ===
[[Special Shape Windows|Special shape replacement windows]] involve windows with curves and/or angles to produce a unique geometric shape. Most special shape windows are non-operating windows though in specific cases some special shape windows may operate. Special shape windows include ellipticals, eyebrows, full arch heads, full cords, full circles, half cords, half circles, octagons, partial arch heads, half ellipticals, pentagons, quarter circles, partial chords, trapezoids, springlines, Isosceles triangles and right triangles as well as other special geometric shaped windows. The windows may be specially ordered in sizes of up to six feet tall. Special shape windows may be installed singly or in conjunction with other windows. 

=== Transom Windows ===
[[Transom Windows|Transom replacement windows]] are relatively small windows that are installed over doors or atop other windows. They are often installed in spaces where a door or window meets another architectural element and function as a conduit between the door or the window below and the ceiling or eaves above. Transom windows are often included in a window design to add height and style to an opening.

=== Storefront Windows ===
[[Storefront Windows|Storefront replacement windows]] are window styles which are frequently used in commercial applications. They are generally combined with an entrance and display a store's wares. The vertical span of a storefront window is generally limited to a single story in height though some may span more than one story. 

=== Gable Windows ===
[[Gable Windows|Gable replacement windows]] are installed in the triangular portion of a wall between the edges of a sloping gable roof. The details of the gable window design and the exact shape of the gable window will depend on the roof's structural system as well as the aesthetic implications of the window's inclusion in the design. The shape of replacement gable windows can be dictated by the type of roof which encloses the window. Alternately, a gable window whose shape compliments the gable roof space can be installed. Gable windows blend into the design of a gable roof to present a unified architectural design for any room in any floor of a home.

=== Roof Windows ===
[[Roof Windows|Roof replacement windows]] are installed within a sloping roof. Most roof windows are non-operable but operable roof window alternatives are also available which may open and close using a pivot mechanism or with opening hinges that are attached to the top of the window sash. Roof windows are often added to applications which, otherwise, would not receive enough light. They are larger than skylights and can retract a portion of the panes to increase air flow. 

==== Roof Ridge Window ====
Another type of roof window, the ridge roof window, is installed in difficult to reach locations and is operated exclusively by remote control. 

=== Roof Lantern Windows ===
[[Roof Lantern Windows|Roof lantern replacement windows]], also called cupola windows, are installed in flat roofs to add light and a transformative look to the room below. A roof lantern window may cover the entire roof area or may be installed in one specific section of a roof. Roof replacement windows may be comprised of any number of glazing panels to offer a range of design options for the roof window design. 

=== Skylight Windows ===
[[Skylight Windows|Skylight replacement windows]] are installed in a sloping roof with a slope of less than 15 degrees or, alternately, in a flat roof. Vertical skylight windows are installed on, in or parallel to walls while flat skylights are installed on, in or parallel to the roof. Skylights provide an unimpeded view of the sky and increase a room's daylighting.

=== Round Circle Windows ===
[[Round Circle Windows|Round circle replacement windows]], also called round top windows are round or oval shaped windows which are installed in conjunction with other windows as part of a window grouping or as a separate window, often in an attic, loft or gable. They are available as 360 degree round or oval window units and frequently include decorative etchings such as floral designs. Round circle windows are generally non-operating windows but may sometimes be available as an operable window selection. 

=== Oriel Windows ===
[[Oriel Windows|Orielreplacement windows]] are banks of windows which are designed in a semi-circle, similar to a bow or bay window. The unit may include three, four, five or more window sections. The oriel window is supported by a bracket or a corbel -- also called an “oriel” as it projects outward from the wall but does not extend to the ground, thereby increasing space by extending the window area outward. Oriel windows are frequently included in Gothic Revival style homes. 

=== Fixed Frame Windows ===
[[Fixed Frame Windows|Fixed frame replacement windows]] are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. A fixed frame window, also called a "picture window" enables a homeowner to increase daylighting into a room area. Fixed frame windows do not include operating hardware and are suitable for a room which needs additional light but does not require the added ventilation that an operating window would provide.

=== Block Glass Windows ===
[[Block Glass Windows|Block glass replacement windows]] are assembled using blocks of cloudy or patterned privacy glass or using cubes of cloudy glass. They are often used for [[Bathroom Windows|bathrooms]] and other applications in which the homeowner wants to create a  screen while allowing in light. 

=== Arch Windows ===
[[Arch Windows|Arch replacement windows]], also called a radius windows, are separate window units which sit above an existing window, generally a double-hung, casement, block-glass, bow, bay or a special shape window. They are generally stationary and are frequently installed framing to frame an operating window so as to ensure proper air circulation. Arch windows may also be installed over doorways. They are shaped in an arch shape -- the degree of the arch is dependent on the homeowner's preference and the window opening option. They may be used as transom windows. 

=== Multi-Lit windows ===
Multi-lit windows are created by arranging glass panes into panels or grid formations. The panes are separated by glazing bars of lead or wood and frequently appear as a decorative glazing pattern.

== Additional Window Options ==
Further window styles combine operating and non-operating windows and offer additional window solutions. 

=== Bay Windows ===
[[Bay Windows|Bay windows]] are assembled using three windows which are arranged in an arc to project outward from a room. Angles for bay windows are generally 90 degrees, 135 degrees or 150 degrees. Bay windows may include two different types of windows, one type in the middle and another style flanking the middle window. A bay window may be assembled using all operating windows, all non-operating windows or a combination of operating and non-operating windows. The window styles which are most often used for bay windows are fixed frame windows, casement windows and double hung windows, though transoms, awning, hopper and special shape windows are frequently installed together with the large windows to create an architectural focal point. Bay windows often feature head and seat boards which are placed in-between the windows to add additional shelf space or a seating area within the room.

=== Bow Windows ===
Bow windows are assembled using four or more windows. The angles in which the windows are installed allow the bow window to project outward. Bow window angles can range from 30 degrees to 45 degree angles and 60 degree angles. Replacement bow windows can be comprised of four non-operable windows, four operable windows or any combination thereof. Operable windows for a bow window generally include casement windows, single-hung windows or double-hung windows. Non operating bow window component windows may include fixed frame windows. Special shape windows, transom windows and hopper and awning windows are frequently added to a bow window unit for appearance and extra light and/or venting. Many bow windows include head and seat boards for added interior seating and shelf space. 

=== Storm Windows ===
[[Storm Windows|Storm windows]] offer a temporary solution to leaky or drafty windows. They can reduce heating and cooling costs by adding a second window layer to an older, [[Single Pane Windows|single pane window]]. Storm windows do not significantly increase the effectiveness of a window's thermal insulation.

=== Stained Glass Windows ===
[[Stained Glass Windows|Stained glass windows]] are best known for their traditional placement in churches and gothic buildings.  Homeowners can also add a stained glass window to as a single installation or as part of a larger window unit. Stained glass windows are custom order windows in which a design or image is created inside a window frame using specially-shaped colored glass panels. These glass pieces are held together by strips of lead and enclosed within the window frame. Stained glass windows may be created in rectangle or other special shape windows. In general, stained glass windows are non-operating windows.


{{Replacement Window Types}}

[[Category:Replacement Windows]]