Know Your Window Styles – A Guide

One thing we are not short of these days is options. From television to clothing and everything in between choice has exploded for the consumer in recent decades. This, of course, includes home improvement and today, customers have a wide range of selection opportunities when it comes altering every aspect of their living space, including windows. In this, our latest blog, we’ll outline some of the more common window styles and what their differences are and some guidance on when they should be considered.

Casement Windows – what are they?

Casement windows are windows that are attached to the frame by one or more set of hinges. Typically, casement windows come as a single frame however it is possible to have to have a pair of windows within the same frame giving that double window effect when opened. Along with sash windows, casement is popular in the U.K providing versatility and a range of design options.

When should they be used?

Casement windows can be used effectively in almost any scenario with one of its major advantages being the ability to open them significantly outwards, providing a large amount of ventilation when required, making them ideal for those Summer days – when and if they come!

Sash Windows – what are they?

Characterised by a striking grid look with several small panes of glass forming two larger panels or “sashes”, one of which typically slides to provide ventilation or an opening, sash windows have been popular in Britain since the first ones were installed in the 1600’s. Often found in older style tenement blocks or Georgian era buildings (Edinburgh’s New Town for example) the style has since gone one to make appearances in more modern buildings and houses.

When should they used?

Sash windows are an effective and durable design, providing excellent ventilation and requiring minimal maintenance in the long term. Its versatile style means it can fit well with any property type. Just be careful not to paint them shut which can a common and annoying issue to deal with!

Tilt & Turn Windows – what are they?

Tilt and turn windows are designed to open on two axes – that is to tilt a minimal amount (usually inwards) or to turn – that is to open like a conventional casement window, but inwards. As such they provide a best of both worlds solution, incorporating the best elements of both casement and sash windows.

When should they used?

As with most of the styles in this blog (except Velux) tilt and turn windows can be used in almost any home setting however the tilt and turn does come with some plus points that differ it from the others. The tilt and turn mechanism gives you flexibility in terms of ventilation. It also makes cleaning the outside of the windows easy – particularly useful for those in a flat and its multiple opening methods make it a secure option when it comes to installing new windows.

Velux Windows – what are they?

Much like Sellotape, Hoover and Tannoy, Velux has become synonymous with the product it supplies, the roof window. No doubt a source of major annoyance to its competitors nevertheless when somebody mentions a “Velux window”, regardless of brand, what they are typically referring to is a roof window – a large window usually built into the slope or flat of the roof, providing a source of natural lighting into a room.

When should they used?

Out of all the styles in this blog clearly Velux or roof windows require the greatest amount of planning and in many cases, it may not even be practically possible to install one. However, should the practicalities provide no major stumbling blocks, roof windows when executed well can be a magnificent addition to the home, providing natural light to a dark hallway or turning a loft conversion into feature room.

If you would like any additional information on any of the styles mentioned in this blog, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and speak with one of our team today.