Types of windows - which of them do you need?

Types of windows – which of them do you need?

Nowadays, there are many types of windows that are not only manufactured according to modern design trends, but are also endowed with qualities that were not previously included in the development of window products. For example, the issue of energy efficiency is less acute today, as technological equipment and greater knowledge of experts in this field make it easy to address the issue of keeping heat out the room by means of windows. There is essentially no problem with energy efficiency today. We will look at how this is done below. The same applies to effective noise insulation, increased impact resistance and the conversion of harmful solar radiation into a useful source of light and heat, i.e. the neutralisation of ultraviolet and infrared radiation. Today’s technology and modern developments by highly specialised experts allow millions of people to experience the true comfort of a home environment, the tranquillity and peace of mind of a harmonious atmosphere. It is worth noting that when choosing a type of window, you should consider your performance requirements. We repeatedly recommended in our articles to pay attention to these or those criteria during the purchase of window products in order to make the choice really useful and meet a number of requirements, usually presented to the quality windows.

Classification of windows is made by three basic parameters: the number of sashes, opening type and shape of the window aperture. Let’s look at each of them individually.

Number of sashes

This attribute is as important as all the others, because it affects the ease of use and the overall appearance of the room, both inside and out. For example, a large area is usually complemented by a type of window with three or more casements. And in smaller rooms, it makes sense to install a single or double casement window type. In addition, there are other types, for example:

• Balcony blocks. This is a construction combining both windows and doors which gives access to a balcony or loggia.
• Loggia and balcony windows. This construction is more demanding to manufacture and install as the glazing area is often large. Weight is also an issue, it is not always light, so installers have the additional task of handling the installation efficiently. Here it is advisable to contact experts in the field, but not to hire workers from a range of freelancers. The window must also be strong and rigid. Such type of windows does not fit into a particular sash type category, as they combine several varieties.

Single casement uPVC windows

The most economical option, easy to operate, unpretentious in maintenance. The most common type of window with an opening sash, but in some cases you may encounter a blank window. Single sash uPVC windows are most often used in rooms of small dimensions and in private detached houses, but are also used in small industrial premises where large window openings are inappropriate. If the room is of normal and large size, it is more appropriate to install a window type with more sashes, as a single sash window will not be enough for a comfortable stay in the room.

Double glazed uPVC windows

The most common type of window. Prices vary due to the performance characteristics, which are versatile and each is suited to a particular living environment. Nevertheless, the cost is usually relatively low. This type of window is installed almost everywhere, as it has the same universal design, suitable for both flats, offices and country houses or non-residential premises, such as restaurants, salons, and so on. Sashes can be fixed or openable.

Three sash uPVC windows

Three sash types of windows are relevant in rooms of large size, spacious bedrooms or living rooms, for example. They look elegant and, because of their size, they allow plenty of natural light to enter the room. Usually the two outermost sashes open, but all window elements can also open. Also, for reasons of economy, the middle sash may be made to open.

Type of opening

The classification according to the leaf type is followed by classification according to the opening type. This characteristic is often decisive for the selection of window constructions. The window fittings are of great importance here, because exactly this element quite often influences the price of the whole window. However, it must be remembered that fittings also influence the durability, convenience and comfort of use. Fittings must be of high quality and therefore expensive. If you are on a tight budget, it is better to save money on configuration, for example, the number of opening sashes than on the mechanism which ensures smooth and reliable opening and closing.

Blank uPVC windows

This type of window is the most economical in cost, which balances the inconvenience of operation, lack of airing, and the ease of maintenance of the window. Nevertheless, the window has a high degree of reliability, because the mechanisms of opening will not fail because of absence, and break-in is impossible at all. If the window is made of high resistance, breaking such a window is also a difficult task.

Blind windows are most often installed on the ground floors of buildings, openings that overlook balconies and other similar places, where either increased security is required, or access is provided to the glass surface from outside to maintain it.

Swinging uPVC windows

The design of a PVC window with a swing opening mechanism is most similar to the most common and typical wooden windows. Opening sashes allow the windows to be cleaned with ease, as well as to ventilate the room. However, the air flow entering the room through such a window will be powerful, which leads to the need to leave the room during the cold season.

Tilt and turn uPVC windows

A topical window configuration for most buyers. The reason for this is the ease of use.

• The tilt-and-turn sash allows the free sill area to be used unobtrusively, in addition to limiting the amount of incoming fresh air. Some windows additionally have a micro-ventilation mode, which is ensured by additional clips on fittings;
• Opening of sash fully used relatively rarely, when you need to quickly air the room, or clean the window from the outside, opening sash fully, it can be done quickly and efficiently.

French windows

They also combine the function of a door. Large glazing would be appropriate in houses with a terrace or a flat with a spectacular view. But that is not the reason for its popularity. Floor-to-ceiling type of windows allows you to visually increase the space and fill the room with more light, so you can use less energy. French windows come in both swinging and sliding versions, and the number of sashes can also be greater than two.

Fanlight windows

This type of windows is not common, though very convenient in operation. It is often used in lavatories and similar facilities where it is not necessary from the functional and aesthetic points of view to fully open the sash, but there is a need for periodic ventilation. The window can be opened in one of two ways: by tilting the casement at the top or bottom.

Sliding uPVC windows

Stylish and modern type of windows used mostly for balconies, loggias and rooms with direct access from the house or building. These may be pergolas, porches, rooms on ground floors of private houses, hotels or holiday homes. It is appropriate to use this type of window in rooms that have a deficit of space. Here, it is worth paying attention to the preparation of the opening before installation, as an additional recess for the sash entrance is required. The convenience is that the sash window remains in the construction plane and does not use the space of the room.

Shape of the window opening

Technological sophistication of production facilities, the level of equipment, now allow to produce windows of practically any shape with unlimited operating life and excellent technical characteristics. Such possibilities are actively used by architects and designers for realization of various projects for buildings and constructions. The use of window constructions of various shapes makes it possible to give an original and refined look to a house, being an essential element of the appearance of any building.

In addition to standard rectangular windows, used almost universally and in all typical projects, in recent years original shapes (triangular, trapezoidal, etc.) have also become widespread. They are increasingly used in individual projects as well as in the construction of private houses and cottages.

Triangular uPVC windows

This type of window is most often used in houses and cottages with a steeply pitched roof and is a final element of the building, which also gives it additional originality and aesthetics. The window blends in perfectly with the appearance of any facade. Today there are many design styles that are aptly complemented by triangular windows, such as the high-tech style.

Note that this type of window uses slightly more materials than a standard rectangular window. The cost of the triangular window is therefore usually somewhat higher.

Rectangular uPVC windows

Not surprisingly, rectangular shaped PVC windows are used quite often. Such design is versatile, and has a relatively low price. Production is quite unpretentious because of the simplicity of the shape, so production times can also be minimal.  Rectangular uPVC windows are the most popular variety among flat and house owners. They use a standard design, accessories and fittings, and there are also no additional difficulties in the installation.

Round uPVC windows

The uniqueness of the design solution can be effectively complemented by circular type of window designs. This is an unusual solution and therefore not very common. For example, so-called circular picture windows are popular in the bathroom, which is located in the attic floor of private houses or hotels.

The production of round windows is not accompanied by an appreciable increase in price, so their cost does not differ much from a typical rectangular window. Therefore we can predict that PVC round windows will be used more and more often especially in private house construction.

UPVC arch windows

The upper part of the arch window is made in the form of an arch with a certain radius; the configuration of the arch type of window can be semi-circular or lancet. They will look great in a gothic or classic style. If the aim is to diversify the design solution, the arched window will be the most appropriate.  

Trapezoidal uPVC windows

The trapezoidal window design is also unique in form. It can be used in any style of room, blending well with its surroundings, blending in perfectly with the exterior, especially when the building has a double pitch roof. In this case, the use of uPVC trapezoidal windows provides maximum interior light.