How to choose the right Style of Window for your Home

There are many factors to consider when choosing to either replace old windows or install windows in a new build. Cost is of course one consideration, but so is insulation, character and design. Whatever the shape, size and age of your property and whatever your personal preferences and budget are there are a host of options for you to consider.

5 key tips when choosing windows

• Create an interior focal point – especially when using sash and box sash windows
• Think about your ventilation and security requirements before making your final choice
• Go for energy efficiency where you can. You can increase your green profile and reduce energy costs
• Think about the light that will come in from each window option
• Think about your desired frame colours carefully

Sash windows

Sash windows are made up of moveable panels, usually allowing for a higher or lower open window space within each window. Under the umbrella of sash windows there are various types from standard timber sash windows to box sash windows, which can look stunning, especially on ground floor living or dining room windows.

Standard sash windows

Such windows, especially in timber allow for the retention and accentuation of character in your property and at the same time give scope for great security and insulation. Dating back to the late 17th century, sash windows these days take advantage of an advanced spiral balance system, facilitating a mechanical lift.

Box sash windows

As the name suggests, the box sash is three dimensional, allowing for a window that protrudes in a box shape, giving great character in downstairs rooms as a feature window and allowing for (indoors) a little window seat to sit and read on or watch the world go by.

For a more modern property you can opt for PVC-u sash windows that still, to a degree retain character but also come with the easy-care characteristics of the material.

Casement windows

Casement windows are an alternative to sash and can be fitted in PVC-u, timber or aluminium to suit all tastes, styles and budgets. Casement windows can operate on side, or top hinges and date back to Tudor period with leaded lights and to the steel designs of the 1930s right up to the modern day.

Casement windows benefit from ease of use and versatility of potential configuration. You can mix rows of small top-hung casements with rows of side-opening windows, allowing for great ventilation control. There are some ultra-smart tilt-and-turn designs that are a great hybrid allowing for side-hinging and bottom hinging (for good security).

Ultra-efficient, energy saving options

There is an ever-increasing gravitas placed on the environment and such options as triple glazed windows are more attractive than they’ve ever been. With triple glazed window you are able to combine the energy efficient PVC-u profile and the thermal characteristics of triple-glazed glass. With three panes of glass your home is more insulated than ever before and draughty and cold windows will be a thing of the past should you go down this route.

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