Choosing the Right Window Style

Posted By Brian Hunt @ Aug 2nd 2010 11:28am In: Architectural Features

Looking for new windows?

Windows can offer a variety of different functions, styles and forms. With all of the tax credit incentives now may be a good time to take advantage of upgrades for your home. Below are a few things that you may want to know about windows.

First you may want to research the Federal Tax Credit incentives for new doors and windows to see if you are eligible to get up to 30% tax credit. This will come in handy if you are buying a new home or rehabilitating an existing or historical home. As always, you should also check with your tax advisor to confirm the latest requirements.

Types of windows

There are basically 4 types of windows. Double hung, sliding, fixed, awning, and casement. Each of these has advantages and disadvantages that you should consider.

Fixed Windows are typically used to frame a landscape and are typically larger or special shaped windows. These types of windows are perfect for sunrooms, entry-ways, above existing windows to add more light and large spans. Although they will not open to the outdoors they are typically better insulators and can be ornamental, leaded, or stained glass to give the interior and exterior of your home a custom look.

Double-Hung and sliding windows are the most common. They slide up and down and can also function as a fire escape. Many of the home inspections that I have done for existing homes for sale in Columbia suggest that every room have an ingress/egress point through a window or door. Often windows will be painted shut or locked down as fixed panels. Double hung windows can be found in a variety of sizes and now have numerous grille patterns for a custom look. I’ve also seen double hung windows with an awning window above it to break-up the window space and give the look of a transom. The biggest disadvantage to Double-hung windows is that you need both hands to open them and must have an open space directly in front of the window. If you are in a wheelchair, have problems lifting heavy objects, or plan on having furniture in front of the window you may want to try a casement window.

Casement windows are usually seen in the kitchen above the sink. Mainly, because they are opened with a crank rather than lifting with both hands. Casement windows are much harder to find in stock at building supply stores. Probably the biggest disadvantage is that they require more outdoor space when opening them. Keep landscaping in mind if you are choosing these windows. You will also find these in an awning window. In Columbia there are some older homes that were built in the late 1960’s, the 1970’s and even the 1980’s that have small windows higher up on the interior walls. In these homes awning windows were used because of their functionality and accessibility.

If you are building a new home in Columbia or the Columbia Metro area you should consider all of these variables when glazing a home. Temperature, lighting, and energy efficiency are important factors in this zone. If you are planning on buying an existing home do your homework and you may even want to consider the green homes for sale in Columbia SC. Energy efficiency and green building products are commonly used in today’s market and will most likely become a staple of tomorrows home building process.