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When choosing new windows, many Indianapolis home owners assume they need to stick with the window style that have already. However, changing window styles is not difficult, and there may be a different operating style better suited to your needs and preferences. Every situation is different, so here is a look at the most popular window operating styles and when each one works well.
Double-Hung
Double-hung windows are a very popular window style. The bottom sash moves up, and the top sash moves down to open the window. This enables you to open the window from the top or from the bottom. Double-hung windows are easy to open if you lack dexterity in your fingers — you just have to push up or down on the window ledge. They work well in homes with children and pets, since you can open the top sash and prevent anyone from falling through the window. Double-hung windows are also ideal if you want to install an air conditioning unit in your window. They’re generally taller than they are wide, making them a traditional choice for home styles like Craftsman and farmhouse.
Sliding
Sliding windows consist of two, side-by-side panels. To open the window, you slide one panel to the side, over the other panel. Some sliding windows are mounted on rollers, so they glide in the tracks rather than sliding — this makes them easier to open. Sliding windows are perfect when you have a window against a patio. You can open the window wide to pass something from inside your home to the outside. They work well in wide window openings, and they are easy to keep clean.
Casement
Casement windows open using hinges, much like a door. There’s a crank at the base of the window that you turn to hinge the window open. When the window is closed, there is a lock you can close to latch the casement window into place. This setup makes casement windows a good choice when security is a concern; they’re harder to break in through than double-hung or sliding windows. Casement windows are also really energy-efficient and a good choice if you want to allow for a lot of ventilation. The opened window pane catches breezes and directs them through the window opening. For this reason, many Indianapolis home owners use them in large living rooms.
Awning
Awning windows look like little awnings over the window opening when they are open. There are hinges along the top, holding the window in place. As with casement windows, there is a crank that you turn to open the window. Awning windows are a good choice behind counters because you can easily reach the crank to open and close them. You can even leave them open when it is raining, since the window stops rain from blowing in through the window opening. Awning windows work best for smaller window openings, such as those often seen in kitchens and bathrooms.Keep in mind, too, that you do not need to use the same style of replacement windows in every room in your Indianapolis home. You can use casement windows in the living room and double-hung windows in the dining room, for example. To learn more, schedule a free consultation with Renewal by Andersen. Our technicians will help you choose the operating style that’s best for you.