Whether buying a new construction home and giving the builders specifications or just replacing old windows on the home they already own, homeowners need to know the different types of windows they can choose from. Different types of windows pose different advantages and aesthetics, so it’s up to the homeowner to decide which type to decide which type they want for their home. Here are some of the most common types of windows homeowners can have installed in their homes and what sets them apart from the rest.

Double- and Single-Hung Windows

The most common type of window used for home is single-hung and double-hung windows. What’s the difference between the two? On single-hung windows, only the bottom window can open, while on double-hung windows, both can open. Single- and double-hung windows remain popular because they provide good ventilation and are easy to clean both inside and outside thanks to how they open, so homeowners won’t have to worry about getting out the ladder or having to hire someone to clean their second story windows.

Bay Windows

What makes bay windows unique from other windows is that they protrude from the side of a home, supplying three differently angled windows for light to enter the home from. Bay windows can be installed so that they can open or stay closed, so this also provides a way for Murfreesboro homeowners to personalize the windows. Choosing windows that open can allow air to flow through from multiple angles, which can be especially useful during hot summers. Bay window are often installed with a large sill that can be used as a stylish seat or a shelf to display plants or other objects.

Casement Windows

If ventilation is a must for a homeowner, casement windows may be the right choice. Casement windows always open, but unlike single- and double-hung windows that open by angling outward, these have hinges on the sides that allow them to open like a door. Because of this, they open much wider than many other window options, allowing the most airflow into a home when compared to them. Another advantage of casement windows is that they seal well when closed and locked, helping reduce drafts in the home and improve energy performance.

Slider Windows

Slider windows are the most unique window option on this list because not only do they operate as windows, but they can also operate as doors. Sliding glass doors are often used in homes to lead outside to a patio or backyard, but they can also be made smaller to use as normal windows. While slider windows let in a lot of daylight (especially if used as a door), they don’t seal quite as well as other windows. However, they’re easy to operate because they don’t require any sort of mechanism aside from the lock.

Picture Windows

Homeowners who want large windows that let in as much daylight as possible may be interested in picture windows. While these windows are often the go-to for homes where the owner wants floor-to-ceiling windows, but any window can be made into a picture window. The biggest disadvantage these windows have is that they don’t open, so homeowners need to plan accordingly and make sure to put them in areas where ventilation isn’t important. However, because the windows can’t open, they have the best seal and lowest chance of drafts.

Choosing the type of windows a home uses is one of the many ways homeowners can customize their home. Before selecting, homeowners need to weigh the pros and cons of each option to help pick the one that is best for their needs.