In any new construction or renovation, the importance of
windows is undeniable as they create the ambience and feel for your overall
house. A properly handled and installed residential windows can not only give a
pleasant outlook but also help secure the house. You have to take care of a lot
of factors while installation of windows from proper sizing to design. While
you install a new window in-house, you have to incorporate tools like nailing
fin that holds the window against the wall. Nailing fins are not required for
replacement of a window because the already installed window frame has
fasteners which hold the window’s structure in place. The kitchen replacement
is much more convenient and easier as compare to kitchen installation.
While installing a new residential windows as well, it is recommended make use
of already installed frame until and unless it is broken or needs repairing.
Windows offer a wide variety
of options not only in their styles and designs but also in their operations
like fixed (that do not open) and operable (that can be opened). There are many
different parts that are included in a window like outer casing, vertical
stiles, channel, jamb, sash, horizontal rails. Sash holds the glass in the
window in place. Usually, there is minimum one sash in a window. The pane
is another part of a window that glass sheet which is a sub-sectioned frame
within a window. The outer frame of the window is an important part that
determines the overall look of a window. It consists of subparts like sill,
jamb, head jamb, head. Glass is the most widely material in windows, and they
are called glazing windows.
Composition of a Window:
A common vinyl window be it single hung or double hung is
made up of multiple parts which are given below:
1-Glass Grills (GBG)
2- Sill
3- Sash
4-Stile
5-Head Jamb
6-Rail
7-Side Jamb
8-Glazing/Glass
TYPES OF WINDOWS:
There are different types of residential
windows, and some of them are given below:
Single-Hung
Windows:
A single hung window has a lower sash that operates vertically, and upper sash is fixed. The outlook of the single-hung window is pretty much like double hung windows, but the working mechanism is different. In some designs of single-hung windows, the sash is fixed in the inward direction to facilitate cleaning of the exterior. Usually, single-hung windows are cheaper than double-hung windows, and according to some estimates, it can cost you 10-15 lesser than double-hung windows
Double-Hung Windows:
Unlike single-hung windows, double-hung windows don’t have
any fixed sash rather both upper and lower sashes are operable. Double-hung
residential windows have a huge demand due to their beautiful appearance which
gives a classic look and adds to the overall look of a house. They are very
convenient to clean because you do not have to reach the exterior due to
operable sashes. There is also an option of sashed tilted inward in double hung
residential windows that facilitate cleaning of the exterior. It is also better
ventilation purposes like moving the upper sash down and lifting lower sash up
allows the air flow for warmer air to move out and a cool breeze to come in.
Accent
Windows:
Accent windows usually come in standardized rectangular and other shapes like an octagon, triangle etc. with design patterns and themes. Their design is very catchy and presents a visual treat to the eyes. One drawback of accent windows is that they are usually fixed, so they offer no ventilation to the interior. Also, they are very difficult to clean and usually you have all the way outside to clean them
Basement Hopper Windows:
Basement hopper windows are smaller sized windows that
usually open in the upward and inward direction. These are mostly used in
bathrooms and basements.
They are generally installed on top of the room and provides air and sunlight
passage. These type of residential windows are easier to clean because of their
operability and small size.
Glass
Block Windows:
Glass block windows have multiple numbers of glass block connected together. These types of windows are durable and secure because the sealing done to join the glass blocks is done with mortar. It is a very good choice among windows because they are pleasant looking and the sunlight can enter your room through the glass that is why they are also a preferred choice in sunrooms. They are usually fixed and can’t open, but they are an option of a tilted built-in vent available for ventilation. These built-in vent glass block windows are very popular for laundry rooms due to facilitation in drying.
Sliding Windows:
Sliding windows have either or both panels operable that can
move horizontally in both directions. They are very good choice because of
their convenient usage and ventilation. Sliding windows have the ability to
open up to the length of the window creating a great passage for fresh air and
sunlight. They are also usually used in the rooms that have a beautiful view
because of their sliding ability.
All of above are most commonly used windows on residentially,
but other than these many other types of windows are available which are given
below:
Bay
windows:
These types of windows give a three-dimensional appearance and emerge outwards from the structure. They are usually common in classical structure and heavy budget houses.
Picture windows:
These types of windows are pivoted and cannot be moved for
ventilation, but through glass, sunlight can enter. They are usually good for
rooms that have a beautiful view to offer.
Bow
windows:
Bow windows are a type of bay windows with more openings and
different curvature. They also bulge out of the house but at 10-15-degree
angles.
Skylights:
This type of window is attached to the ceiling or roof for ventilation and sunlight. They are more like sunroof of a car and can be moved in different directions. They are usually difficult to clean due to accessibility issues.
Window Frame Materials:
There are different options available for windows frame, and
some of them are mentioned below:
- Aluminum: Aluminum window is one of the most economical
options among different types of windows. They are lightweight, low maintenance
and very durable with high endurance against corrosion.
- Clad-wood: In clad wood windows, there is a wooden
covering on the inner side and aluminum covering on the outside. The wooden
cladding acts as a resistant against corrosion.
- Wood: Wood is another important material that is widely
used in windows for new construction projects. It is usually used on the inner
side of a window because it cannot resist longtime exposure to adverse weather
effects. Wood also provides good insulation and helps keep the temperatures
inside a room bearable. You can also get finished wood for convenience in the
installation process.
- Vinyl: It is a popular choice in replacement windows.
Polyvinyl chloride is used in vinyl windows which are tough material
that is why these types of windows are very durable. They also don’t need any
finishing and have endurance against discoloration and rot.
Energy
Efficient Windows:
There are many items used in windows that help preserve the
temperature of a room. Usually, two(double-pane) or three(triple-pane) glass
layers are used in windows. For insulation purposes, argon gas or air is used
as a sealing agent between multiple panes. If the window is constructed
properly, then there are fewer chances of condensation, but for drying and
protection, a desiccant is added between panes.
Another good option for energy conservation is low-emissivity glass which let sunlight through but does not let the heat to slip in. It is because of its ability to not exchanging temperature, Plus it can help keep your room cool on a warm day and warm on a cold day. energy efficient windows also keep the harmful ultraviolet rays from entering the house and prevent furniture and other items from discoloration.
Ways of cleaning windows:
Following are some ways to help in the cleaning of windows:
- Wash windows with water then clean and wipe with a lint-free
dry cloth.
- Many chemicals can also be incorporated for cleaning windows
and try to distribute the cleaning material uniformly throughout window to
prevent discoloration.
- Rinse off any cleaning chemical quickly with water because
it can affect the surface if kept for long.
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