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Window Types
Selecting the proper window for the style
of your house is as important as the way
you want the window to operate. The arrangement,
proportioning, and design of windows are
known as fenestration, and it can make all
the difference in the architectural success
or failure of any building. Windows come
in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and
they can be a single pane of glass (most
often used in contemporary buildings) or
multi paned (a more traditional look).
If you are thinking of installing new windows
and want them to complement the style of
your house, consider the following:
- Fixed windows let in the light and view but
do not open to admit air. They come in a
variety of shapes, including circles and
ovals. Fixed windows are frequently combined
in sets of windows, often as the center flanked
by windows that do open. They are commonly
installed near the ceilings of rooms or on
staircases. Fixed picture windows are usually
found in 20th century homes, especially in
ranch houses.
- Casement windows are hinged on one side so
that the whole window opens in or out when
a crank mounted at the bottom of the window
is operated. Older casements opened into
the room, so that they would not swing in
the wind; most newer casements are reinforced
at the bottom to prevent this, so they swing
out. Casement windows are associated with
Tudor and Spanish style buildings, with Craftsman
bungalows, and with cottages of any style.
- Only the bottom part of a single hung window
opens. Double hung windows have both upper
and lower sashes that ride up and down in
their own channels. These are the proper
windows for Georgian style buildings.
- Three part Palladian windows that gently
curve at the top are also suitable for classical
style structures.
- Bays are sets of at least three windows mounted
together that project out from the wall to
let more light into the room. Bow windows
project out in a curve. Oriel windows are
bays whose projections are supported by corbels
or brackets. They are frequently installed
over arched doorways. Although associated
with traditional building styles, these window
types can also be used in contemporary architecture.
- Sliding windows have top and bottom tracks
so that the sashes can move sideways. Small
versions are often installed near the top
of the room to provide light and air while
maintaining privacy. They should only be
used in 20th century buildings.
- Awning windows are hinged horizontally to
swing out at the top. They can be left open
in mild rainstorms. They are also appropriate
on 20th century structures.
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