A Guide to Popular Window Types for Your Home

Last Updated: 28 September 2023

Windows are more than just panes of glass shielding us from the elements; they’re the eyes of a home, offering glimpses into the lives held within. They frame our world outside, dictating the quality of light that filters in and influences the very ambience of interior spaces. At Reddish Joinery, we understand the profound impact the right window can have on a residence.

In this guide, we will explore the different types of windows available for your home, helping you to make an informed decision that marries style and function.

Sash Windows:

These are made of one or more movable panels or “sashes” that form a frame to hold panes of glass. They can be moved up or down (vertical sliding sash) or side-to-side (horizontal sliding sash).

  • Advantages: Traditional aesthetic, promotes efficient ventilation, secure locking.
  • Styles: Double-hung (two movable sashes) or single-hung (one movable sash).
Accoya wood sliding sash windows

Casement Windows:

These are windows that are attached to their frame by one or more hinges. They can swing outwards or inwards.

  • Advantages: Excellent for unobstructed views, easy to open and close, tight seal when locked.
  • Styles: Single casement, French casement (two-door style), push-out.

Bay Windows:

These protrude from the main walls of a building and form a bay inside a room. They are often used to increase the flow of natural light into a building and provide the advantage of wider views.

  • Advantages: Expands room space, offers panoramic views, and enhances natural light.
  • Difference: Bay windows are more angular and typically have three openings; Bow windows are curved with multiple openings.
Bay windows front view

Tilt and Turn Windows:

These can be tilted inwards at the top or can open inwards hinged at the side.

  • Advantages: Flexible opening for easy cleaning and ventilation, enhanced security features.
  • Styles: Inward opening allows dual-function: tilt for ventilation and turn for wide opening.

Dormer Windows:

These protrude from a sloping roof and usually have their own roof. They are added to bring in more light into attic spaces or to increase the usable space in a loft.

  • Advantages: Adds natural light to attics or lofts, increases usable space, enhances exterior aesthetics.
  • Styles: Gable-fronted, hipped, flat roof, and shed dormers.

Skylight/Rooflight Windows:

As the name suggests, these are installed on the roof of a structure to allow light to penetrate into the areas below.

  • Advantages: Increases daylight in rooms, energy-efficient, ideal for spaces without wall space for windows.
  • Styles: Fixed, ventilated, or tubular.

Oriel Windows:

A form of bay window that protrudes from the main wall of a building but does not reach the ground.

  • Advantages: Adds architectural interest, increases light without compromising privacy, ideal for first floors and above.
  • Styles: Supported by brackets or corbels, can be made in various shapes.

Custom Windows:

A custom window is a window specifically designed and crafted to meet unique size, shape, or style requirements not found in standard window offerings.

  • Advantages: Tailored to specific architectural needs, enhances unique home aesthetics, can fit any space.
  • Styles: Bespoke designs to meet unique requirements and styles.

Transform Your Home with Reddish Joinery

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of timber windows, the modern flair of aluminium, or the durability of uPVC, we have the perfect fit for your home. Our expert craftsmanship ensures that each window, from traditional sash to bespoke designs, seamlessly integrates with your aesthetic and functional needs. Experience the difference of quality and precision.

Contact Reddish Joinery Today for a Free Window Consultation!

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