OUR THOUGHTS ON COMMON WINDOW STYLES
Double-hung windows on the Sleeping Cabin.
Windows are one of the most significant elements when it comes to both design and budget in a new build or renovation. Given the impact of this investment, it’s important to be familiar with the common window styles and materials available.
The first thing we ordered for the cottage rebuild were the windows and we put a lot of consideration into our decisions. Soon we’ll be installing them so we’ve been discussing windows a lot lately and felt it would be worth offering our thoughts on the styles and materials we used.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward or inward like a door. They are usually operated with a crank handle and have a single lock. This style allows for maximum airflow and ventilation. Casement windows are also energy efficient as they form a tight seal around the entire frame when closed.
Our thoughts on casement windows: Casement windows can be the right choice in some scenarios, however, this style is not our top choice for most projects. If they open inward They render interior sills useless because you can’t put anything on them. If they open outward they can create a hazard for foot traffic and the window gets wet if open in the rain.
AWNING WINDOWS
Awning windows are hinged along the top of the frame and open outward with a crank. This style allows for added ventilation without allowing rain to get in. They are great for spaces like bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms. Awning windows can also be useful when placed high on walls to let rising heat out in the summertime.
Our thoughts on awning windows: We are using awning windows in a number of locations within the cottage rebuild. We like them for spaces, like bathrooms, where the window might be left open. We also appreciate that they maintain a consistent appearance from outside when open.
SINGLE-HUNG WINDOWS
Also referred to as “single-sash” windows, this style consists of one fixed section of the window (typically the upper half) with one operable section of the window (typically the lower half). Single-hung windows tend to be a more affordable style and can be more efficient as there are fewer moving parts and opportunities for air leakage. They can be tricky to clean as the top sash doesn’t move so the outside can only be cleaned from the exterior.
Our thoughts on sing-hung windows: We typically prefer double-hung windows over single-hung for increased flexibility for airflow and easier maintenance.
DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS
Also known as “double-sash” windows, this style consists of two operable sections of the window. Double-hung windows are easy to maintain as the sashes can be tilted inward for cleaning from inside.
Our thoughts on double-hung windows: This is our preferred window style for functionality and style versatility. We have used primarily double-hung windows with a single divided lite on the top and bottom sash for the cabin and cottage.
Double-hung window on the Sleeping Cabin.
SLIDING WINDOWS
Sliding windows function similar to sliding doors. They’re ideal for large horizontal spans and spaces where protruding windows are undesirable, such as along decks, stairs, yards, walkways or porches. Sliding windows are often easy to use as they do not require lifting or reaching in order to operate.
Our thoughts on sliding windows: We are using a number of sliding windows in the Muskoka room to maximize the unobstructed viewing area, optimize ventilation and offer ease of use.
FIXED WINDOWS
Fixed windows are non-operable and remain closed at all times, which improves energy performance. These are useful in locations that cannot be easily reached or where operable function isn’t required.
Our thoughts on fixed windows: We installed a fixed window on the gable end of the cabin where the ceiling is vaulted and the window will not be reachable. It allows for added natural light and we like the vintage schoolhouse touch it adds to the exterior.
Fixed windows look great from the outside because you don’t need to use a screen so the glass has a naturally glossy finish.
The fixed gable window on the Sleeping Cabin.
SKYLIGHTS
Skylights can be a wonderful way to add natural light to a space when additional windows are not an option. Skylights are usually installed recessed into the ceiling and if not fixed, they open similar to an awning window with a hinge along the top and an operating mechanism that will allow the window to be unlocked and cranked open.
Our thoughts on skylights: We like adding skylights when the roof structure allows, as they add natural light to spaces that may otherwise be dark. We tend toward fixed skylights over operable for simplicity, otherwise you typically need to keep a long rod handy to use the operator and crank.
Thanks for reading! We hope this resource of inspiration is useful for you. If you have questions about windows, feel free to leave them below.