Window Types: The 9 Most Popular Window Shapes and Their Function

When it comes to homes, windows play an important role in establishing the overall theme. Their size decides how much of natural light you allow in the home, their designs and glazing decides how much heat you are okay with, their placement decides what level of air flow the house will have, you get the idea. Whether your house is built in a traditional or modern style, windows will significantly help in building a general perspective.





But like there is no one-size-fits-all solution for anything, same is the case with home windows. There are many different styles and types to choose from, depending on where they will be placed. Below, we take a look at 8 basic window types and learn what purpose they serve. 

Awnings

Awnings open outwards and are hinged at the top or bottom. They are placed either close to the ceiling or just above the floor. Their purpose is to offer ventilation in times of extreme humidity such as before or after a storm or rain.

Bow or Bay windows

When more space is needed, bow or bay windows are the perfect window types to opt for. They protrude outside the walls they are placed in and provide some extra space within a room. These windows are often a combination of different window types such as stationary windows, casement windows or double-hung windows. 

Casement Windows

Casement window’s primary focus is providing top to bottom ventilation. These open outwards and are hinged at the sides. Because of their large size, they allow both natural light and fresh air inside a compact room such as the kitchen or bedrooms.

Single and Double-hung Windows

Single-hung windows have one lower sash that allows some room for fresh air whereas double-hung windows have two operating sashes. They both move up and down offering ventilation. These are ideal for rooms that don’t face the front or the back but walkways, decks or porches. 

Gliding Windows

As the name suggests, these windows have an operational horizontal sash that glides to one side allowing fresh air inside the house. Since the sash moves sideway rather than outwards, they are also great for rooms facing porches, decks or walkways. 

Picture Windows

Picture windows are ideal for living rooms as they only enhance the room’s aesthetic appeal by displaying the green outside. These windows are stationary and can have a small porch or shelf to showcase some flower pots. 

Speciality Windows

All window types that can’t be regarded as a common shape such as square, rectangle or circle are labelled as speciality windows. Elegant arches, compelling curves and striking angles all come under speciality windows. They can or can’t be opened depending on where they are placed. 

Skylight Windows

Lastly, we have the skylight windows whose primary function is to allow some natural light. These are installed in the roof of the house just like a roof vent. These are perfect for bathrooms living rooms and in rooms where natural light is a must. At night, they also some great gazing at the stars moments and also allow ventilation when opened.