A Brief Glossary of Window Types

If you’re remodeling your home, you know that you have a wide array of options when it comes to windows. There are so many different types of windows, you probably haven’t even heard of half of them. Here is a brief glossary of some of the most common window types to get you started.

Awning windows: Awning windows are equipped with hinges on top so that they can be propped open like an awning.

Bay windows: Bay windows are part of a structure that projects out from the house. The structure has at least three sides, each with a window.

Bow windows: These are similar to bay windows, but the walls are curved instead of flat.

Casement windows: These are windows with hinges on the side, operated by a crank.

Coupled windows: As the name suggests, these are two windows separated by a mullion (vertical bar between panes).

Dormer windows: Dormer windows rise from a sloped roof.

Eyebrow windows: Mimicking the curve of an eyebrow, these are semi-circular windows with a bottom hinge. They rise vertically from a sloped roof.

Guillotine windows: An older version of double hung windows, guillotine windows feature a moving bottom portion.

Oriel windows: These are similar to bay windows but the structure does not extend to the ground. Instead, the bottom of the structure curves back into the house wall.

Picture windows: Extremely common, these are large, fixed windows with a single pane of glass.

Pivot windows: These windows open by pivot points, usually horizontally.

Queen Anne windows: These windows are made up of windowpanes of various sizes.

Slider windows: These windows feature side-by-side sashes (doors) that slide horizontally.

Splayed windows: These windows are positioned at an angle to the wall.

Storm windows: Storm windows are installed on the outside of a normal window for protection and insulation.

Choosing the right windows for your home is important. That is in part because, in the average home, 38% of heat loss occurs through windows and doors. If your home is equipped with drafty single-pane windows, heat loss may be as high as 50%. To learn more about windows and how to choose the right kind for your home, contact an experienced window replacement company today.