THE ROLE OF WINDOWS IN HOMES
Have you ever wondered what living in an enclosed space without any means of ventilation will feel like? Well, windows play a pivotal role in our homes as it is secured into the opening of a building, first is the frame and then the main window follows.
They provide natural light and ventilation and allow easy views of the outdoors but they also add aesthetic value to our living spaces.
However, with the myriad of options available, choosing the right type of window might seem like a daunting task. We are going to discuss some types of windows and their best usage. So, whether you are building a new home or renovating your current one, you will be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed choice.
Read: Basic Steps to Buying a House
MAJOR TOOLS AND MATERIALS NEEDED TO INSTALL A WINDOW ARE:
1. A new window
2. Screw gum
3. Foam installation
4. Shims
5. Nails
6. Level
7. Crowbar
8. Hammer
9. Screws
10. Window wrap
TYPES OF WINDOWS
Casement Windows
Casement windows are attached to their frame by one or more hinges at the side. They are opened using a crank or lever, making them an excellent choice for hard-to-reach places like above the kitchen sink. Their tight seal when closed also enhances energy efficiency, making them a preferred option for colder climates.
• The casement windows consist of rails, frame style, vertical and horizontal sash bar
• The panel can be glazed or unglazed
• When fully opened they offer adequate ventilation
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Double-hung or cottage windows are classic and versatile. They have two sashes in a single frame, both of which can be slid up and down. This allows for excellent ventilation and easy cleaning. They are best used in traditional-style homes due to their timeless elegance.
• As the name implies, it has two panes, top and bottom which slide up and down
• They allow proper flow of air into the house
• Tilt-in features for easy cleaning
• They are not easily damaged
Single-hung Windows
The single-hung window has two sashes each, only one is movable and ventilation is provided through the bottom sash. Single-hung windows provide less security due to their nature.
• They are affordable
• Difficult to clean
• Allows less ventilation compared to double-hung windows
• Easier to install
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows extend outwards from the wall of the house, creating a cozy nook inside. They consist of three or more windows that are angled out beyond the wall.
These windows are perfect for creating a statement and adding an extra charm to your home. They are best suited for living rooms and bedrooms where you can take advantage of the extended space.
• These window types are wide and decoratively impressive
• They allow a 180degrees view
• They are majorly used in cold country where snow often falls
Slider Windows
Slider windows, as the name suggests, slide horizontally along the window frame. They are easy to use and offer a clear, unobstructed view of the outdoors. These windows are best used in modern homes and rooms where you want to maximize the view.
• Sliding window has two or more sashes overlapping slightly, they slide horizontally within the frames
• Design for easy replacement and requires low maintenance.
Pivoted Window
The pivoted window is fixed to a Centre framework and offers a horizontal or vertical opening and closing. They are used in all-condition multistory or high-rise buildings, and warehouses.
• The shutter can swing horizontally and vertical
• Windows such as Pivot are found with frames which have no rebate
• The shutters are capable of rotating about in some cases.
Metal windows
These types of windows are much affordable and durable, they are a good choice for high-rise residential buildings and commercial buildings.
Metal windows can be made from materials such as steel, aluminum and bronze. There are also other forms of metal windows:
• Steel Windows: steel windows are strong and durable; they can be a good option for public properties.
• Aluminum Windows: Aluminum windows are light weighted, affordable and energy-efficient
• Bronze Window: Bronze windows are not all that affordable when it comes to the classes of metal windows, but they are very beautiful and classic.
Metal windows are very strong and give superior support to structures, they require low maintenance but should occasionally be painted to avoid rust.
Dormer Windows
Dormer windows are those provided on the slop of the roof they admit lightening and air into the rooms which are constructed with or below the roof slopes
• This window type has its own roof
• The dormer window adds architectural interest to the house
• It creates usable space in an attic
• It can be seen in different styles which are; gable dormer, hip dormer, shed dormer, eyebrow dormer etc.
Louvered Window
This window type is highly flexible and usually fixed at 45 degrees to the shutter. They majorly perform a better ventilation role than vision and the styles are grooved to receive a series of louvers which can be glass, wooden or slate
• The window provides light ventilation even when closed due to its lapping nature
• They are best used in bathrooms and factories
Glass Block Windows
A glass block window is majorly made up of smaller pieces of glass in square or round shape to form a larger block of glass. These window types do not open or close but can admit lightning into the house.
• They are ideal for bathrooms, showers and basement
• Glass bricks are available in different sizes, colors and patterns
• They can be found in layers: single, double or triple phases.
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outwards, creating an awning effect. They are excellent for ventilation, even in the rain, as the design prevents water from entering the house. These windows are best used in bathrooms and in coastal or rainy areas.
• They can be used in groups with a combination of another awning
• They can also be used alone, the window type provides good ventilation
• They have heavy-duty locks and hardware for security
The clerestory windows are provided near the top of a roof as they serve the purpose of lightening and beautification, they may not provide adequate ventilation. Some clerestory windows do not open while other strategically placed types open.
• Cleaning is difficult considering the place they are positioned
• They are typically found at or near the roof line
• They are typically found in a clerestory wall which rises above adjoining roofs
The corner windows are also known as side windows because they are usually positioned by the corner of a building, the corner window allows entry of light and air from two directions and it improves the aesthetics of the building.
• It is glazed beautiful
• The jamb post at the corner is heavily made
• They have two perpendicular directions
Conclusion
Choosing the right window type for your home depends on your specific needs, the architectural style of your home, and the climate of your area.
Consider factors such as functionality, energy efficiency, ease of use, and aesthetics when making your choices. With the right windows, you can improve your home's comfort, aesthetics, and value.
Happy home improvement and the best decision-making on your window choice!
Reference:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_Window
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