Who lives in a house without doors and windows? They are vital for every home. Apart from providing access, light, and ventilation, the types you use impact the look, efficiency, security, and value of the house. So, if you want to build a new house or install new windows and doors on your current home, knowing the various types and how to select the best ones can make a world of difference in the final results.
Types of Windows
Knowing the types of windows can help you to make a proper choice that fits your home style and needs. Among the most common are:
- Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows
These are the old style of windows which have been in use for years. But despite their time on the scene, they are becoming quite popular again due to their simplicity and versatility. An advantage of single-hung windows is the fact that they are cheaper than double-hung.
So, if you have a limited budget but want to have nice ones, single-hung is the right choice. To see the differences between these two types, check out this resource: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/.
- Casement Windows
These are less popular but still widespread. The number of opening options for this type of window is basically unlimited. In addition, casement windows have multiple advantages compared to others. They feature a more contemporary look, better airflow, and effective ventilation for the house.
- Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are most often chosen for homes that were constructed a few decades ago. They are perfect for those who are looking for more ventilation and unobstructed beautiful views.
- Awning and Hopper Windows
Awning windows pivot from the highest point and open to the outside, ideal for wet environments to let air in without letting the rain flow inside. Hoppers can be opened by pivoting from the base of the edge, which are perfect for basements to let in more light.
- Bay and Bow Windows
These windows move outward and make the home feel bigger with more space and architectural attractiveness. They are great for cozy bench sets or showing outdoor views.
- Picture Windows
Fixed-lites or picture windows don’t open but offer a great view, perfect for living rooms or dens where you want to let in a lot of light.
Types of Doors
Choosing a door comes down to comfort and security. Knowing the entrance to your home is secure is key to having peace of mind. Standard door options include:
- Entry Doors
These give homes a certain look and appeal, usually made with qualities such as wood, steel, and fiberglass. They should be strong enough not to buckle under the elements or intruders. Still, they must look amazing enough to attract attention and make a great impression.
- Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding doors are your connection to the outside. Easy opening and closing ensures the noise of outdoor gatherings stays outside to reduce noise pollution inside the house. Sliders are great for back doors leading to the back porch, decks, and pools. A large window area gives these doors a great deal of sun-blocking capability.
- French Doors
Exterior French doors are popular for decks and patios as well as front doors. They feature equal-size panels with glass extending the full length. If a solid look is desired, there is less worry about furniture and placement than a door that is all glass.
- Bi-Fold and Multi-Slide Doors
Bi-fold and multi-slide options are those where you can make the most of space and really open up your room. These modern-style options have panes that fold into themselves or slide open, shut along a track and allow the homeowner to really blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.
- Storm and Screen Doors
Storm doors are installed in front of exterior doors and are typically half the length of the full door. While they are not elegant, they add an extra layer of insulation and protection. Their design maintains the function of circulation and is useful during a storm, without allowing the actual storm to enter the home.
They can be installed on the exterior or interior part of a rain door. Click here for a look at a detailed explanation of door types.
Material Choices: Pros and Cons
More than style, windows and doors must also deliver strength and performance. With this, consider the different types of window and door materials:
- Wood
l Pros: Timeless appeal and excellent insulation.
l Cons: Requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to moisture and pests.
- Vinyl
l Pros: Affordable, low maintenance, and energy-efficient.
l Cons: Limited color options and not as durable as other materials.
- Aluminum
l Pros: Sleek, lightweight, and strong.
l Cons: Poor insulation without thermal breaks
- Fiberglass
l Pros: Durable, energy-efficient, and low maintenance.
l Cons: Higher upfront cost.
- Steel
l Pros: High security and durability.
l Cons: Can dent and is prone to rust if not maintained.
Maintenance Tips for Windows and Doors
To keep them in a working fashion, a few good practices will apply.
l Routinely wash glass, frame and hardware to limit sun and water damage over time.
l Replace rubber seals and weatherstripping to keep water outside and the air inside.
l Lubricate any moving metal parts to keep them running smoothly and steel from rusting.
l Power-wash or re-stain and apply a finishing coat for steel or wood doors to keep them in working order for years.
The Value of Professional Installation
Elegant design and materials are important for homeowners to uplift or update their living and entertaining space. But appropriate installation is an essential part of the process and the performance of the unit.
A top-quality window or door product will not live up to its potential if it’s installed incorrectly. Problems with drafts, leaks, noise, insufficient insulation, and even security risks can manifest if these parts are not measured or installed properly. With Paradise Exteriors, you will get professionals to lead the project. That way, customers can enjoy the new investment without any concern.
Energy Efficiency
The primary purpose of these parts is to create a tight seal that stops air flow, water, and anything else you don’t want inside. That includes protection from insects as well. This seal can also keep your home at a consistent temperature, which takes work off of your AC unit and can lower your energy bills. The more skilled the professional you hire to complete installation, the better the seal will be upon completion.
Weather Protection
When you hire a professional to install or replace windows and doors in your home, those fixtures will be much more rugged and able to stand up to any weather conditions they are exposed to. This can pay off significantly during storm seasons, when windows and doors are the most likely places that water can leak through into your home, causing water damage, dangerous mold growth, and various other issues.
Enhanced Security
The safety of your home and family is obviously the most important of your priorities and hiring a professional that has years of training and experience in home maintenance, repair, and protection to install your doors and windows gives you peace of mind.
You will know everything is installed properly and the house is safe and sound.
Optimal Functionality
If your doors and windows don’t work the way they are supposed to, they don’t help much and are likely to affect your energy bills by creating gaps in temperature consistency. However, when you hire a professional, they will install them the way that the manufacturer intended without any of the aforementioned issues.
Final Thoughts
Windows and doors are more than tools. They add to the comfort and beauty of your home. By knowing what your options are and choosing products from quality sources, you create a space that suits your lifestyle. And by increasing energy efficiency and other factors, it will be worth it.
So, when it comes to replacing these parts, make sure you choose wisely. It may just change the look and feel of your home for the better.
Jessica has a flair for writing engaging blogs and articles. She enjoys reading and learning new things which enables her to write different topics and fields with ease. She also strives to break down complex concepts and make them easy for anybody to comprehend.
