Guide to Window Types

If you are thinking about replacing your windows, you should know all of the types of home windows available!

Casement/Hinged Windows

Casement windows have a hinge, which allows them to swing open. These windows are excellent insulators because they are large panes with fewer places for air to escape.

Single Hung Windows

Single Hung windows are extremely common. The bottom of the window moved up and down, while the top part of the window cannot be open. There is only one option for opening the window, hence single hung.

Double Hung Windows

You can open double hung windows by the top or bottom of the window. Two options for opening equals a double hung window. This window comes in a variety of color and styles, but they can have issues with insulation if the weatherstripping gets old or tattered.

Home's egress window that was just completed.

Egress Windows

If you have a basement with a bedroom, you most likely have (or will need) an egress window. The main purpose of this window is to allow occupants to escape the basement in an emergency. Besides safety and fire codes, egress windows do a fantastic job of adding natural light into a dark basement.

Garden Windows

Do you have a green thumb and want to grow plants throughout the year? A garden window is a lovely option for you. These miniature bay windows will harbor your plants and shower them with sunlight. We recommend you don’t skimp on the quality of your garden window, make sure it is insulated, low-E glass. This is a perfect addition to an herb lover’s kitchen.

Inside a homes kitchen with window over sink.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are hinged at the top and swing open. They are a popular option because they can be open rain or shine.

Exterior view of home with three windows and middle one is open.

Inside he master bedroom of home with big windows and unique ceiling fan.

Picture Windows

Do you have a view so pretty it could be a picture? A picture window is a large pane perfect for looking over your lovely backyard. These windows won’t open.

Skylight Windows

Skylight windows are wonderful for natural light. Skylights are windows that are installed on your roof. These windows are a bit more expensive because of the complexity of their installation.

Inside a nice reading room with fireplace and four big skylights.

Hopper Windows

Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open at the top. They are commonly used in basements. They are a great option for letting air in and keeping debris out.

Transom Window

Want to boost your curb appeal? Take a look at transom windows. Transom windows are commonly found above doors or other windows as an accent. You typically see these windows in a semi-circle style, but they can be customized to any shape. These windows are mainly for decoration and usually cannot be opened.

Looking into the corner of a room with large windows on both sides.

Examples of different glass block types: bubble, bromo, clear, diamond, iceberg, ocean view, pristal, quadra, wave.

Glass Block Windows

These windows are great for privacy which is why you will commonly find them in bathrooms. Glass block windows allow a great amount of light, but you can’t see out of them clearly, and they cannot be opened.

Inside a massive living room with floor to ceiling windows and drapes and cool chandelier.

Arched Windows

Arched windows are lovely for designs. They can stand alone, or be placed on top of other windows for a stunning look. Most arched windows cannot be opened.

Slider Window

These windows work like a sliding glass door, they are extremely easy to open. Slider windows are also easy to maintain and a cost effective option. Great for light and ventilation, but you can only open half of the window.

Jalousie Windows

These windows are rarer and commonly found on older homes in warmer climates. The window is made up of several smaller panes that can be cranked open, making them fabulous at ventilation. We wouldn’t recommend these for colder climates because they are poor insulators.

Interior of long room with a jalousie window and vaulted ceiling.

Sitting bench in a bay window looking out to street.

Bay Windows

Bay windows can add great charm to a home. These large windows project out of the home’s exterior and create a little extra space inside your home. Bay windows can be created with double hung or casement windows.

Storm Windows

Storm windows are another layer of window that you can add over your existing windows. The flat, large panes add another layer of protection and insulation. Most homeowners put them up during colder months and remove them in nicer weather. You can’t open your windows when you have storm windows installed.