Different Types Of Windows Used In Commercial Buildings

Author: Jonathan Jonas

Windows are simply the vented openings in the walls of the buildings to allow the air and light to enter the structure naturally. It may seem like a simple job but you understand the importance of it when there is something wrong with the window in the room. There are various types of windows separated on the basis of design, size, and functionality. Some types fit best for residential buildings others have no-match when it comes to ventilating a commercial building.

The article below explains the different types of windows used in commercial buildings for you to choose the best according to your needs and requirements.

Also Read: Awning Windows: Pros And Cons

Criteria Of Choosing The Window

Like any other choice, window selection is also based on some criteria. Priorities and requirements can vary person-to-person but the elements of criteria usually remain the same. Some things to consider when choosing a commercial window includes;

  • The direction of the wind

  • Size of the room

  • Location of the room

  • Utility of the room

  • Architectural viability of the window and room.

  • Climatic conditions

  • Outdoor safety of the area.

Types Of Windows Used In Commercial Buildings

There is a wide variety of commercial windows based on functionality, design, size. Some of them are explained below.

  • Fixed Windows

  • Sliding windows

  • Pivoted windows

  • Casement windows

  • Meta windows

  • Bay windows

  • Skylights

  • Corner windows

  • Sash windows

  • Louvered windows

Fixed Windows

These are the windows placed in the room without any opening or closing option. In short, fixed glazed glass is placed in the window frame aimed to provide light in the room. The glazes used in the windows are usually weatherproof. These are best for ground floors of the commercial areas providing light while saving from the outdoor noise and chaos.

Sliding Windows

In these windows, the shutters are moveable within the window frame. The movement can be horizontal or vertical based on your choice or needs. The shutters move within the frame using the moving rolling bears. The sliding windows work best in the higher builder, bank counters, etc.

Pivoted Windows

In this type of window, the pivot is placed on the window frame. This enables the shutter to oscillate within the frame. Only the shutter moves and the frame remains in its place. The swinging can be vertical or horizontal based on the pivot provided to the window frame.

Double Hung Windows

As the name suggests, these windows have double shutters within one frame. Both the shutters are hung one above the other. These shutters can be moved within the frame usually only vertically. This means you can open the window either from the top or the bottom based on your requirements.

Louvered Windows

The louvered windows are the ventilating walls versions of the louvered doors. They just provide ventilation without any outside view. The louvers can be made of wood, glass, or metal. There is a chord over a pulley to control the angle and face of the louvers. You can adjust the chord at the level you think provides maximum ventilation or even light. The usual slope angle is 45 degrees. These windows are best for shared office spaces. They keep the environment fresh while providing privacy.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are now the most common type of windows used in both residential and commercial buildings. The utility of these windows is more due to their close functionality with regular doors. In these windows, the shutters are attached to the window frame and they can be closed and opened like the doors. There are rebates in the frame to support the shutters. The shutters can have single or multiple glaze glass, depending on your needs. If you prefer safety over the clear outside vision the double-glazed casement window is your option to go with.

Corner Windows

With city life in full swing, the areas and buildings have gone compact and closer. This development takes the ease of having huge and wide windows and shifts to sophisticated windows. The best solution to fit in the several floor building and accommodate the most it could, the technology and contractors come up with the corner windows.

These windows are placed in the corner of the wall and have two faces perpendicular to each other. This means they can provide more light to the room without converting the whole wall into a window.

Bay Windows

These windows are projected out from the walls. This projection aims to provide extra space, more ventilation, and extra light inside the room. The projection of the windows can be made in different shapes, they can be rectangular, triangular, or polyangular. They give a beautiful appearance to the structure, especially from the outside. These windows are best if you want to enhance the curb appeal of your building. Bay windows also allow the manufacturer to be creative and enhance their design as they want.