If your home windows are leaking, letting in drafts or looking outdated, replacing them is an excellent improvement project that boosts energy efficiency and can enhance curb appeal. However, selecting the right type of window is important for aesthetics and function.
Wood-framed windows can complement traditional homes, while vinyl-framed windows suit contemporary styles. Other options include low-e glass and argon gas-filled windows that improve energy efficiency by keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Casement Windows
Hinged on the side and operating with a crank, casement windows easily open and close. They provide fresh air and sunlight to rooms while enhancing home energy efficiency. They also fit well into any style home.
They look best in modern homes, paired with sleek frames and unobstructed glass. If your home is more traditional, they can be used with window grids for a classic appearance.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward. Their design allows for ventilation even during light rain, making them ideal for places like kitchens where you’d want regular airflow. Their small size also makes them suitable for installations higher up on walls.
When choosing a window replacement style, consider your home or establishment’s architectural style and aesthetic preferences. Then, determine what material best suits your budget and maintenance capabilities. Wood offers classic style, while fiberglass and vinyl offer durability and energy efficiency.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows offer many benefits for your home or business including a wide variety of spacing options, customizable hardware and color finishes, and low maintenance costs. They are also easy to operate and blend well with certain architectural styles.
Awning replacement windows hinge at the top and swing outward, allowing for ventilation in spaces that would otherwise be difficult to reach with a double-hung window. They also provide a tight seal that enhances energy efficiency.
Picture Windows
The primary advantage of picture windows is their unobstructed view. They’re especially useful for homes with picturesque landscapes.
They allow a generous amount of natural light into the home, which can brighten interior spaces and reduce reliance on artificial lighting during the day, potentially saving energy costs.
Since they don’t open, they may be susceptible to heat gain in the summer and a lack of air flow during the winter. However, proper installation and insulation can minimize the potential for these problems.
Bay & Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows expand your home’s aesthetic while letting in a flood of natural light. They consist of a central fixed window with side panels that can be opened with a crank for ventilation and often feature shelving options or a window seat.
The style you choose will depend on your home’s architecture and personal preferences. Wood-framed windows offer a traditional look, while fiberglass and composite frames are more affordable and energy efficient.
Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows have horizontal slats that open to allow airflow, which makes them ideal for warm climates. Modern jalousie windows have improved insulating materials to prevent heat loss in winter and keep cool air in during summer, saving you money on your energy bills.
Modern styles often feature aluminum frames that resist swelling, rusting, and warping. They’re a great choice for contemporary-style Lake Charles homes that want a sleek look.
Rustic Windows
Rustic windows are a great choice for homes that want to maintain a countryside or natural atmosphere. They are usually made from wood or clad wood and can feature design elements like shutters or grilles.
Window installation experts can help you choose replacement windows that complement your home’s style and suit your energy needs. They can also offer advice on incorporating extra glazing for better insulation, helping you save on energy bills and contribute to a greener world.
Colonial-Style Windows
Colonial-style windows bring a sense of history and elegance to any home. Usually symmetrical and featuring multiple panes of glass divided into grids, they can be customized with different grille patterns to suit your preferences.
Choose vinyl, fiberglass or clad wood frames for easy maintenance and durability. Wood requires regular repainting and sanding to prevent rotting or warping.
Double-hung windows offer the most traditional look, and they can be opened at both the top and bottom for enhanced ventilation. Energy Star-certified windows with argon or krypton gas between the panes provide additional insulation, helping you cut down on your energy costs.
Victorian-Style Windows
Victorian homes are an intricate architectural style that evokes luxury. These beautiful homes often feature decorative flourishes, including stained glass windows. They also feature eyebrow windows above double-hungs and transom windows above entry doors.
Victorian windows let in plenty of natural light, brightening up any space. They can be updated with steel casement windows, which offer modern benefits like energy efficiency.
Rustic windows are best for Lake Charles homes that want to maintain a countryside or natural feel. They can be made of wood or clad wood and may have design elements like shutters and grilles.