Window types & style options for your new home

Windows are an essential part of any home design, but while they may seem pretty simple on the surface, there’s a lot more variety than you might expect. Windows has more uses than simply looking through. They play an important role in the ventilation of your home and how much natural light enters the home. In today’s article, we’re looking into window types and style options for your new home. The window styles we’ll be covering today are:

• Bi-fold windows
• Awning windows
• Sliding Windows
• Double hung windows
• Single hung windows
• Sashless Windows
• Casement Windows
• Louvre windows
• Fixed Windows
• Arched Windows
• Security windows

What window types are currently trending?

When it comes to window types, you have a wide range to choose from. Let’s run through some of the most popular window styles on the market and weigh up their pros and cons.

Bi-fold windows

One of the most popular window styles in Australia, a bi-fold window (sometimes called folding or concertina windows) comprises hinged panels that fold into each other when opened. Great when you want a wide open space when you open your window. Whether it’s for letting cool air, connecting two areas or even passing things through, a bi-fold window has a wide range of uses.

Pros

• Great for panoramic views
• Stylish and versatile in design
• Very secure and come with multiple locks and locking points.
• Maximise fresh air and natural light.

Cons

• Not great for smaller spaces. Really needs a wider window frame for full effect.
• Can be expensive, depending on the materials used and where you’re installing your window.

Awning windows

Awning windows have a distinct design and are instantly recognisable by the way they open. With a hinge on top, an awning window is opened by being pushed out from the bottom. This means the top of the window remains in place, while the bottom pivots. The crank mechanism will keep the window open at whatever angle you choose.

Pros

• Offer good security against intruders
• It can be left open during rainy weather as the window naturally serves as an awning. The exception to this would be during especially wild storms.
• Greater control over ventilation.
• Have an aesthetic appeal many find pleasing and which works in a variety of environments.

Cons

• Don’t allow natural air in as efficiently as other windows.
• The mechanical cranks are susceptible to wear and tear and have a high failure rate.

Sliding windows

One of the most common window types available, sliding windows are a classic, timeless design that everyone’s familiar with. Sliding windows have a pane that opens across, running on a horizontal track. Great for large openings and convenience.

Pros

• Very durable
• The simple design and lack of cranks or mechanisms mean sliding windows are much less likely to break.
• Flexible with how open you want your window to be.

Cons

• Tracks can be a haven for dirt and debris
• Sometimes seen as old-fashioned and may not suit a modern home design.
• Limited choice in sizes and shapes.

Double-hung windows

You may not recognise them by their name, but this is actually one of the most common window styles. Made up of two sashes (frames with glass panels within), double hung windows open upwards. The window operates on vertical tracks. Whereas the old wooden version could be little heavy, modern versions of double-hung windows are much easier to open and close. A great choice for more traditional home designs, farmhouse designs, or any home with a more classic feel.

Pros

• Most manufacturers make double-hung windows and your options are very wide.
• Their popularity means they’re usually affordable.
• Usually easy to open and close, especially modern versions. This is due to springs or weights within the window.
• The vertical tracks don’t fill up with dirt anywhere near as much as horizontal tracks do.

Cons

• Require maintenance to keep springs and sash cords in good condition.
• The large opening could be a break-in hazard for determined intruders.
• Can be a safety hazard for children as they’re a low-mounted window that provides a large opening.

Single-hung windows

This is a very similar concept to the double-hung windows, however, only one panel can be opened, while the other is fixed in place.

Pros

• Similar benefits to a double-hung window while being more affordable.
• Can improve energy efficiency

Cons

Sashless windows

A cool, slick version of the classic double-hung window design. Sashless windows operate exactly the same way as double-hung windows with glass panels opening. The look resembles a fixed window, providing a cleaner look, and an unobstructed view.

Pros

• A modern, sleeker take on the classic double-hung design
• More natural light than a sash window
• Provide the look of a fixed window while still having an opening function.

Cons

• Much more expensive than double-hung windows
• Need regular cleaning to maintain the look.

Casement windows

Casement windows have a similar mechanism to an awning window. However the difference is whereas an awning window has the hinge on top of the window, a casement window has the hinge on the side. When opening, one side of the window will remain stationary while the other will pivot.

Pros

• Great at catching and directing breeze into the home
• Stylish modern look.
• The window seal is quite tight, making this style great for insulation.
• Secure against intruders.

Cons

• When fully extended, a casement window can be vulnerable to strong windows. If you’re in a cyclone area, keep this in mind.
• Mechanical crank mechanisms do wear and meaning this window type has a high failure rate.
• Don’t qualify as an egress window unless quite large.

Louvre windows

Louvre windows (sometimes called slate windows, crank-out or jalousie) comprise horizontal slats, or louvres, that are adjustable. These slates can be angled to allow in more or less light and air. Modern versions can be controlled electronically.

Pros

• Wide opening area
• Can be used in a variety of places
• Adjustable angles
• Can be left open during light rain without much risk

Cons

• Not secure and not ideal for ground floors
• Don’t provide great insulation during winter.

Fixed windows

As the name suggests, fixed windows don’t open at all. Their primary functions are to let in natural light and provide a view of the outside world. With natural light being a priority in most modern home designs, fixed windows are in high demand. They can range in size from windows to entire walls.

Pros

• Easier to customise and come in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
• Visually attractive and interesting.
• Allows natural light into your home, creating a comfortable environment and lowering your power bills.

Cons

• If you’re looking for ventilation, these windows won’t help.
• Can’t be opened making their functional uses limited

Arch head windows

Arch-head windows are, as you’d suspect, arch-shaped fixed windows, that may be installed on their own, or above a more standard window. If you decide on the latter, you’ll have the best of both worlds with style and ventilation.

Pros

• Distinct aesthetically pleasing design
• Visually interesting
• Minimal upkeep

Cons

• Don’t provide ventilation
• Won’t work with every decor.

Security screen windows

These are windows with a security screen installed. Great for providing extra security and for providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Pros

• Are strong, and durable and provide great security for your home.
• Good ventilation and natural light
• Can have the window open completely without letting insects in
• Unobtrusive design
• Tailored to suit any measurements

Cons

• An expensive window
• Will need cleaning

Our tips on choosing the right window style for your new home

• Consider what you’re trying to achieve with your window.
• What does the room require? Bathrooms, for instance, need some form of quality ventilation due to the high moisture exposure.
• From a stylistic perspective, consider what will best suit your home’s aesthetic. A window that will suit a traditional home design may not work with a modern layout.
• Remember, different window styles will work better in different rooms.

Get free advice from an experience-building broker

Looking for help with choosing the right window or any home designs? Buildi is here to give control back to the consumer. We can help you every step of the way during your building journey. From finding the perfect builder for you to ensuring everything in your contract is delivered, Buildi will save you both time and money on your next build.

Book your free, impartial consultation today!