You’ve renovated your home, but you’re missing one key detail. If you don’t upgrade your windows, the rest of the interior and the exterior might be for nought. If you’re going to remodel your home, then you should also consider some window upgrades.
Installing new windows provide more benefits than just cosmetic. New windows could increase curb appeal and home value. They can also be beneficial for reducing street noise and improving the efficiency of your home.
So, what window upgrades should you consider for your home? Learn about the types of windows plus a few renovation tips you can use to redesign a home.
Types of Windows
If you’re looking to replace your windows, know that you have a lot of options. Each window type has plenty of benefits when it comes to aesthetics. But, in general, new windows can improve your home’s curb appeal and reduce noise coming in from the outside.
Plus, new windows help keep warm air in during colder months and cool air in during warmer months. The improved insulation keeps your home comfortable year-round and prevents a huge energy bill at the end of the month.
Windows are essential for the aesthetic and function of your home. Choosing to upgrade your windows is a great home renovation choice. Here are a few different types of windows you can choose from.
Awning Windows
As the name suggests, the window opens out in a way that resembles an awning. The window swings with the use of a latch, crank, or handle. Because of the angle at which it swings out, they can be a great option for rainy climates.
The water will run off rather than come through the window, allowing you ventilation and to hear the sound of rain without getting wet.
Arched and Round Windows
Arched windows have a curve at the top and are straight on the side. They’re loved for the architectural and aesthetic statement they make in a home.
Round windows can be oval or circular in shape. They’re a unique shape that adds a lot of architectural interest to a home, even giving a nod to Victorian or Gothic historic architecture.
Most arched and round windows are fixed, meaning they don’t open, but some can be manufactured to offer ventilation.
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay windows are one of the most beautiful additions you can add to your home. From the exterior, they stick out with the use of flat windows attached at an angle. Inside, they can create a nook, shelf, or bench.
Bow windows are similar to bays, except bow windows are curved rather than at an angle. Bow windows also protrude out from the exterior and create a nook inside. But because of the specialized installation and materials, bow windows are typically more expensive than bay windows.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are made of solid glass and swing out or up to open. They provide overall less obstruction, so they’re great if you have a view you want to enjoy.
These windows are most often made with two window panes, usually hung vertically. But they can also be hung horizontally so that they open upwards rather than outwards.
Garden Windows
Think of garden windows as miniature bay windows. They’re like a tiny box of windows that protrude out on the exterior of your home. They’re called garden windows because they’re often used to grow plants or herbs.
Because these windows extend past the walls of your home, they receive more sunlight, which is ideal for indoor gardening. But they’ll also bring a lot of light into your home. And if you have a pet that likes to sunbathe, this might be their new spot.
Picture Windows
For a modern home, picture windows are the main feature. This style of window is being used more and more in newly-built homes. These windows are fixed, so they cannot be opened, but they offer incredible views, essentially bringing the outside in.
Picture windows don’t have visible frames or breaks that will interrupt the view, so they’re ideal for homes in picturesque locations. They also bring in a ton of natural light and can make a space appear larger.
Single and Double Hung Windows
Single and double-hung refers to how the window opens. Hung windows open vertically with the bottom panel sliding up. The upper window panel remains fixed. Single-hung is one of the most affordable and popular styles of window.
Double-hung windows allow for both the top and bottom panels to slide open. They offer plenty of ventilation and are one of the most common window upgrades.
Transom Windows
Transom windows act as a decorative accent to other windows. Typically, transom windows are much smaller than the main window and can be square, rectangular, or semicircle shaped. They can be installed above or around doors or even other windows.
Add a transom window to bring focus to the main window. They can also be used to create a design or pattern that adds an aesthetic. These windows also help bring more light into the room, bathing the home in natural light.
Window Renovation Ideas
Renovations don’t have to stop at choosing new windows. You can accent your brand-new feature with stunning window renovation ideas. Now that you know the different types of windows, the possibilities for updating your home can be endless.
Whether you’re replacing current windows or looking for a total window renovation, here are some ideas you can use to highlight your new home feature.
Eat-In Kitchen Window Nook
Use bow or bay windows to create a nook inside your kitchen. It’ll provide a perfect space for casual dining. You can add in a table and chairs or build in bench seating underneath the window.
This will be the perfect place to sit for a leisurely weekend breakfast or to sip your coffee in the morning. Or even for more casual meals in the evening, if a formal dining room isn’t your thing.
Bay Window with a Seat
Another way to use a bay window in your home is to use it to create a relaxing sitting area. Start by adding a bay window to a living room or den. Then, you can add a built-in bench underneath to create a space to relax or read.
Or create a large bay window and create a more formal space with comfortable chairs or a small sofa to relax and enjoy a view.
Garden Window Surrounded by Built-In Shelving
Add a garden window to your home in either the living room or kitchen, somewhere it can get lots of sun. Place your favourite houseplants or herb garden there so they can bathe in the natural light.
Around the garden window, add built-in shelving so you can store books, manuals, and tools you need to help your plants thrive.
Living Room Picture Windows
If you have a view from your living room, this is a must. Replace your small windows with large picture windows so you’ll be able to see the trees, city, or countryside.
You’ll also love how much natural light your home is filled with. Use light filtering curtains to soften or block light at night.
Formal Arched Windows
There’s no denying how beautiful arched windows can be. Add them to a foyer or formal living room or dining room to instantly elevate the look. They can be great accents or stand-alone.
Arched windows look great in both traditional and modern homes. They add to the elegance of older, traditional homes. And they prevent modern homes from looking too sterile.
Front Door Framing
Welcome yourself and guests into your home in style. Don’t only have a beautiful front door but have stunning window framing as well. Use transom windows around your front door to add an accent and bring in extra light.
Consider smaller, square windows that create a border around the door. Or, for something a little more minimal, choose two long rectangles to flank either side of the front door.
Sliding or Folding Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
If you have an outdoor space, sliding floor-to-ceiling windows are the way to go. These are similar to the picture windows but sit on a track, so they’re able to open.
With this type of window, you’ll still get unobstructed views and tons of natural light, but they’ll also open so you can walk right into your back garden.
Instant Transformation with Window Upgrades
Windows are the one feature that’s seen in both the interior and exterior of the home. With a feature so important, why wouldn’t you want to upgrade them? Window upgrades contribute to the aesthetic and function of your home.
You have plenty of options for window types and renovation ideas. You can choose the windows that best fit your style. Once the windows are complete, they offer an instant transformation.
Ready to upgrade your windows? You can get an instant quote for your project today! Or call us with your queries for more information.