Tom Adams knows windows and has been selling, installing, and servicing many types of windows for over 67 years; this includes both new construction and replacement style windows.
Looking to upgrade your windows? Upgrading your windows will not only continue to provide natural light and warmth to your home but new or replacement windows bring value by increasing your home’s resale value, energy efficiency and overall aesthetics.
This “types of windows guide” will help you make an educated decision for the best type of windows to purchase for your home in 2023.
Window Anatomy 101
Before we can talk about the different types of windows available for your home or business, it’s important to first understand some window terminology.
Types of Windows to Consider
1) Double Hung Windows
A double-hung window, A.K.A. double-sash window is made with the top sash slides down and the bottom sash slides up in order to get the most efficient air infiltration. There are two main operable parts of a double-hung window – the top sash and the bottom sash and both sashes have the ability to tilt-in and open. It was designed this way to make the outside glass accessible from the inside, making it easy to clean.
There are 2 available options; double-hung windows come with either standard half screen or optional full screen to protect your house from insects while enjoying the fresh air. Additionally, many style options are available from the inside color, outside color, and hardware for easy opening. Double-hung windows are easy to operate, easy to clean and have a traditional look from both the inside and outside compared to other types of windows.
They are energy efficient and their air tight seal makes the double hung window a very popular choice for homeowners.
Double Hung Window Pro’s:
- Great Ventilation
- Multi Lock based on Window Size
- Easy to Clean
- Variety of colors and options
- Optional Cottage or Oriel style
- Energy Efficient
Double Hung Window Con’s:
- Rail in middle of window blocking view
- The possibility of air leaks as the window ages
2) Bay and Bow Windows
Bay and Bow windows are combinations of pictures, casements, and double-hung windows that project outward from a home. They are affordable and provide numerous benefits for your home. They not only expand your living area and enhance the comfort of your home but also are available in a variety designs and styles to match your décor.
Bay Window
Bay windows add a refined look to the exterior of a home and can help significantly boost curb appeal compared to other types of windows. This window design was first used in Victorian homes in the late 1800s. They can project at 45 or 90 degree angles and are a great natural light source. A bay window can also add additional space and square footage to a room.
Bay Window Pro’s:
- Increases property value
- Adds more space to your interior
- Adds more natural light
- Strong and durable
Bay Window Con’s:
- Repairs can be costly if not installed correctly
- Longer installation process
- May require custom draperies
- May need custom roof on Bay or Bow
Bow Window
Bow windows, A.K.A. compass windows, feature four or more windows placed side-by-side to create a large curve that extends outside of a home’s boundary. They’re designed to create extra space inside by pushing an exterior wall outward with a wide window to the outside world. They can provide a better visual experience of your property including wide angle views of your yard, garden and other areas of your property.
They can enhance the appearance of your home, regardless of its age.
Bow Window Pro’s:
- Increases property value
- Adds more natural light
- Beautiful Panoramic views
Bow Window Con’s:
- More expensive than bay windows
- Installation is more complex
- May require custom draperies
More about Bay and Bow windows from our blog: Bay Vs Bow
3) Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are budget friendly and offer beauty, low maintenance, and strength which make the vinyl window an excellent choice for homeowners.
Vinyl is a type of polymer and is a type of window commonly used as replacement windows. The windows are made using polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the same material used in many household items but vinyl windows are not made entirely out of PVC. Moreover, they come in a variety of grades; two very popular choices are recycled vinyl and pure virgin vinyl.
Recycled vinyl is made from a variety of recycled vinyl products, this can reduce the cost of the window but it can also affect the longevity of the window. Pure virgin vinyl is a stronger material and is more durable.
Vinyl Window Pro’s:
- Affordable
- Low maintenance
- Energy efficient
- Vinyl is available in a variety of shapes, colors, sizes and styles, including a wood finish
Vinyl Window Con’s:
- Should Not repaint
- Cannot Stain
- Not biodegradable
4) Wood Windows
Replacing your old windows doesn’t mean you have to lose the beauty and richness of wood because you want energy-efficient windows. Wood windows come in many window styles including; double hung windows, casement windows, picture windows, awning windows, and shapes, both in new construction and replacement installation.
Additionally, wood windows provide ample alternatives and a more traditional appeal when it comes to appearance over other window types. They are found regularly in historic properties where appearance is paramount. Additionally, wood windows are available in a variety of wood types, with pine being one of the most affordable and popular with homeowners.
Wood Window Pro’s:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Added Value of Wood Windows to Home
- Long lasting
- Energy efficient
Wood Window Con’s:
- More Expensive than other options
- Wood requires more maintenance ( Paint/Stain/Fade)
- Wood is susceptible to damage from water, heat and even termites
5) Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass is one of the most common window materials used by manufacturers. Our Fiberglass windows are made of Ultrex, which is 100% pultruded fiberglass. Ultrex fiberglass windows are durable, strong, stable, maintenance free, and efficient.
While other types of windows might break, or crack over time, Ultrex Fiberglass windows hold strong and perform under great stress without showing age or wear. Some windows claim to be fiberglass but also have wood pulp and are not the quality of true 100% Fiberglass.
The window frames are prefinished with a white or brown polyurethane coating. Fiberglass windows are often named one of the most popular types of windows among homeowners. These types of windows have a lot of upsides, but there are downsides you will want to take into account.
Fiberglass Window Pro’s:
- Strong Durability
- Energy efficient
- Different colors
- Can be Painted
- Thinner Frame shows more Glass
- Low maintenance
Fiberglass Window Con’s:
- More expensive than Vinyl
- Limited options compared to vinyl and wood
6) Casement Windows
Casement windows are a popular choice for homeowners because they provide a clear open view to the exterior. Moreover, casement windows open and close easily with the turn of a handle, and make a great option for areas behind counters and sinks. They are also hinged on the side and open outward to the left or right.
Casement style windows tend to be not as popular as other types of windows; however they do have many benefits that could make them the right choice for your home. Some of downsides of casement windows’ downsides border on myth, with other downsides being surmountable if you feel that you would like to install this type of window.
Casement Window Pro’s:
- Energy efficient
- Shows more Glass no visual blockage in Frame
- Security
- Ventilation
- Easy to wash
Casement Window Con’s:
- Can be more expensive than other types of windows
- Size limitation
- Hardware wear and tear
7) Picture Windows
Picture windows, A.K.A. fixed windows are large windows that create the effect of framing outdoor scenery like a picture frame. Additionally, they have square, rectangular, or other odd shaped architecture. These windows are non opening windows that allow maximum amounts of natural light into the room, but no air infiltration.
Picture windows typically can have double pane or only one transparent glass pane, based on size of opening and space and are more versatile than other window types and can be used alone or in combination with other window styles and types to create a spectacular center piece that can maximize natural light.
Picture Window Pro’s:
- Cost effective
- More natural light
- Unobstructed Views
- Easy to clean
Picture Window Con’s:
- NO ventilation
- Outside cleaning not as easy
8) Shapes Windows
You can add architectural style to your home and have a unique look that gets attention. Shapes windows are normally picture windows and are non-operative windows. They come in many shapes including circle, square, triangle, octagon, and other unique designs.
The main goal of the shape window is to create drama and add natural light into the room.
Traditional, modern, industrial, or transitional, a shaped window enhances the appearance of your home unlike any other type of window. Shapes picture windows are available in wood, fiberglass and vinyl.
Shapes Window Pro’s:
- Easy to maintain
- Distinguish Your curb appeal
- Energy-efficient glass
- Custom options
Shapes Window Con’s:
- No ventilation
9) FlexScreen Windows
FlexScreen is the latest and greatest in window screen technology. They are the world’s first flexible screen and is designed to fit into any channel and gives unlimited flexibility with customization.
FlexScreen Window Pro’s:
- Simple design
- Damage resistant
- Beautifully invisible
- Easy installation
- Lifetime warranty
FlexScreen Window Con’s:
- Not enough data
About Tom Adams Windows and Carpets
Tom Adams has been beautifying homes since 1955. Fast-forward to today, and we are now one of the largest home improvement companies in the Philadelphia-Allentown area. We owe our success to our friendly, yet professional, knowledgeable employees who sell and install high-quality windows, doors, siding, flooring, and carpeting from the top manufacturers.
We open all of our showrooms seven days a week and our outlet five days a week for our customers’ convenience. Ask about our 12 month financing options, subject to credit approval, to help budget out your next home improvement project. Those in Montgomery County, Lehigh Valley, Doylestown, Whitehall, Southampton, Churchville and the surrounding areas looking for a door installation and replacement or a top window company do not have to look any further.
New Construction Windows • Replacement Windows • Bay Windows • Bow Windows • Double Hung Windows • Wood Windows • Vinyl Windows • Fiberglass Windows • Casement Windows • Picture Windows • Shapes Windows • FlexScreen Windows
Let us show you why we are the most Nationally Awarded Family Owned Window, Door and Flooring Company with installations in Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Lehigh County and parts of South Jersey and Philadelphia
Get a Free Estimate
Tom Adam’s Blog – Windows
Browse our catalog of articles about window products, services, and information you can use before you start your next home improvement project.
Should I Replace My Door And Windows At The Same Time?
https://tomadamswc.com/should-i-replace-my-door-and-windows-at-the-same-time/
8 Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Window Replacement Company Near You
https://tomadamswc.com/8-things-to-consider-when-choosing-the-best-window-replacement-company-near-you/
How to Make Sure Your New Windows and Doors Are HOA Compliant
https://tomadamswc.com/how-to-make-sure-your-new-windows-and-doors-are-hoa-compliant/
The Ultimate Window Replacement Buying Guide
https://tomadamswc.com/the-ultimate-window-replacement-buying-guide/
Top 5 Reasons That Homeowners Choose ProVia Endure Windows
https://tomadamswc.com/top-5-reasons-that-homeowners-choose-provia-endure-windows/
Window Installation: Your Complete Guide To Changing Or Expanding Window Space
https://tomadamswc.com/window-installation-your-complete-guide-to-changing-or-expanding-window-space/
The 8 Signs It’s Time to Replace the Windows in Your Home
https://tomadamswc.com/the-8-signs-its-time-to-replace-the-windows-in-your-home/
Bay Windows Vs. Bow Windows
https://tomadamswc.com/bay-windows-vs-bow-windows/
Save Money With Energy-Efficient Windows In The Winter
https://tomadamswc.com/save-money-with-energy-efficient-windows-in-the-winter/
Do My Screens Need To Be Replaced?
https://tomadamswc.com/do-my-screens-need-to-be-replaced-tom-adams-windows-and-carpets/
Glossary of Terms – Windows
Replacement Window Terms
- Single Glazing: A replacement window which has a single pane of glass.
- Double Glazing: A replacement window which has two panes of glass and is usually separated by a space filled by argon gas.
- Triple Glazing: A replacement window which has three panes of glass, each separated by a space filled by argon gas. Triple glazed windows are used in many colder areas.
- Head: The upper part of the window which sits above the top of the frame.
- Jamb: Jambs are the main vertical parts forming the sides of a window frame; they are often one of the first things to require service.
- Frame: The window frame is the area of the window that holds the glazing and is located between the glazing and the wall of the building when installed.
- Panes: The glass which sits inside the window frame allowing you to see through the window and allowing light in while still providing.
- Sill: A.K.A. window ledge is similar to the “window head” but sits at the lowest part of the window underneath the frame.
- Muntin Bars: Muntin bars are the dividers between window panes.
- Sash: The movable panel of a single or double hung window. A window sash is an important part of the design of any standard window.
- Single Hung Window: A single hung window A.K.A. single sash window is a type of window with a lower, operable sash and an upper, fixed sash.
- Double Hung Window: Double Hung windows have two operating sash that move up and down allowing for ventilation on the top, bottom or both. A key advantage to double hung windows is the ease of cleaning.
- Bow Windows: A bow window is similar to bay window but these are installed in a curved configuration forming a semi-circular layout.
- Bay Windows: A window similar to a bow window but they are usually installed in an angled configuration.
- Awning Windows: A window that swings outwards from the frame, the hinges on awning windows are usually fixed just below the window head.
- Fixed Frame Windows: These windows have a single fixed frame with no opening portion to the window.
- Sliding Windows: A sliding window is a window that opens by sliding horizontally along a top and bottom track.
Energy Efficiency Terms
- U-Factor: A measure of the rate of heat transfer. This data tells you how well a window insulates.
- Window R Value: The window R value is a rating of thermal resistance (the window’s ability to hold in heat).
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): A measure of the amount of solar energy transmitted through a window.
- Visible Transmittance (VT): A measure of the amount of light allowed through by the window.
- Air Leakage (AL): Air leakage is a measure of the rate at which air passes through the window joints and gaps.
- Condensation Resistance: A measure of the window’s resistance to water build-up
