Windows

Types of House Windows

When it comes to finding the best house windows for your home, understanding the different types available can make your choice easier. Here are some common window styles that can improve your home’s aesthetics, ventilation, and energy efficiency.

Fixed Windows

Fixed windows are ideal for areas where you want to maximize natural light and scenic views without the need for ventilation. These windows don’t open, making them perfect for framing beautiful outdoor scenes and enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal.

Key Benefits:

• Scenic Views: Large, uninterrupted glass panes provide stunning views.
• Natural Light: Floods rooms with sunlight, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
• Noise Reduction: Fixed windows are airtight, providing excellent sound insulation.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are hinged on the side and open outward with a crank. They offer an unobstructed view and excellent ventilation, making them a popular choice for many homes.

Key Benefits:

• Unobstructed View: No central bar obstructing the view.
• Ventilation: Opens fully to allow maximum airflow.
• Airtight: The sash locks tightly against the frame, making it more energy-efficient.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are a classic choice, with two movable sashes that slide up and down. This design allows for versatile ventilation and easy cleaning.

Key Benefits:

• Air Circulation: Both top and bottom sashes can be opened for improved ventilation.
• Easy Cleaning: Many models allow you to tilt the sashes inward for easy cleaning.
• Window Air Conditioner Compatibility: Ideal for installing window air conditioners, although some may require shimming for stability.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward. They provide a tight seal and are ideal for rainy climates, as they direct rainwater away from the house.

Key Benefits:

• Top-Hinged: Opens outward from the top, allowing ventilation even in rainy weather.
• Tight Seal: The sash presses tightly against the frame, making it highly energy-efficient.
• Easy Maintenance: The outward opening makes them easy to clean.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows operate horizontally along a track. They are space-saving and easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for many homes.

Key Benefits:

• Horizontal Operation: Easy to open and close, ideal for spaces with limited vertical clearance.
• Space-Saving: Doesn’t protrude into the interior or exterior space.
• Easy Maintenance: Simple design with fewer moving parts, making it low-maintenance.

Picture Windows

Picture windows are large, fixed panes of glass designed to offer an unobstructed view. They are perfect for rooms with beautiful outdoor scenery.

Key Benefits:

• Unobstructed View: Large glass panes provide a clear view of the outdoors.
• Natural Light: Maximizes the amount of natural light entering the room.
• Low Maintenance: No moving parts, just regular cleaning required.

Bay Windows

Bay windows project outward from the house, creating a small shelf inside. They usually consist of a combination of fixed and operable windows.

Key Benefits:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a beautiful architectural feature to your home.
• Natural Light: Brings in more light from multiple angles.
• Extra Space: Creates a small nook or shelf inside the room.

Hopper Windows

Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open inward. They are often used in basements or bathrooms for ventilation.

Key Benefits:

• Bottom-Hinged: Opens inward from the bottom, allowing for good ventilation.
• Space-Saving: Ideal for small spaces like basements or bathrooms.
• Versatile: Can be used in various settings for both ventilation and light.

Choosing the right windows can significantly impact your home’s look, feel, and energy efficiency. Whether you need fixed windows for scenic views or double-hung windows for easy cleaning, there’s a style to meet your needs.

Next, let’s explore the factors you should consider when choosing house windows to ensure you make the best decision for your home and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing House Windows

When choosing house windows, several factors can impact your decision, from energy efficiency to material quality. Let’s break down these crucial considerations to help you make an informed choice.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a top priority for many homeowners. Energy-efficient windows can reduce your heating and cooling costs, making your home more comfortable year-round.

Key Metrics to Look For:

• Energy Star certification: Windows with this certification meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
• U-Factor: Measures how well a window insulates. A lower U-Factor means better insulation.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Indicates how much of the sun’s heat is allowed through the window. A lower SHGC means less heat enters your home.

Common Features:

• Triple-pane glass: Offers better insulation than double-pane.
• Low-E coatings: Reflect infrared light, keeping heat inside in winter and outside in summer.
• Gas fills: Argon or krypton gas between panes improves insulation.

Material Quality

The material of your window frames affects durability, maintenance, and cost.

Common Frame Materials:

• Wood: Offers a classic look but requires more maintenance to prevent rot and decay.
• Vinyl: Low-maintenance and affordable, vinyl frames are durable and energy-efficient.
• Composite: Combines materials like wood and vinyl for enhanced durability and energy efficiency.

Durability and Maintenance:

• Wood frames may need periodic painting or staining.
• Vinyl and composite frames are generally maintenance-free and withstand harsh weather conditions better.

Noise Reduction

If you live in a noisy area, noise reduction is a critical factor.

Features to Consider:

• Laminated glass: Reduces noise by adding an extra layer of sound insulation.
• Soundproofing: Windows designed specifically for noise reduction can block 75% to 95% of outside noise, creating a more peaceful indoor environment.

Customization Options

Customizing your windows allows you to match your home’s aesthetic and meet specific needs.

Options Include:

• Glass types: Choose from clear, frosted, or tinted glass.
• Frame colors: Select a color that complements your home’s exterior.
• Grids and sashes: Add decorative elements to enhance your window’s look.

By considering these factors, you can find the best house windows that meet your energy needs, match your home’s style, and stay within your budget.

Next, we’ll wrap up with a look at how Builders Surplus can help you find the perfect windows for your home.

Affordable windows at Builders Surplus

When it comes to finding the best house windows for your home, Builders Surplus is a top choice.

First, we offer exceptional value for money. Our windows are competitively priced, ensuring you get high-quality products without breaking the bank. We understand that cost is a significant factor, especially for New England-based contractors who aim to keep expenses low for their clients.

Another key advantage is our knowledgeable sales team. They are well-versed in all aspects of window selection and can guide you through the process, helping you choose the right style, material, and features to meet your specific needs.

Additionally, our custom door shop offers a range of customization options. You can select from various glass types, frame colors, and decorative grids to match your home’s aesthetic. This level of customization ensures that your windows not only perform well but also enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Located conveniently in New England, Builders Surplus has multiple locations to better serve you. This means you can easily visit our showrooms to see our products in person and consult with our staff.

Ready to find the best windows for your project? Visit our Replacement Windows page to explore our range and get started today.

Visit us at one of our locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Rhode Island, or give us a call at 866-739-1636.

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