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.

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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.

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How much should I pay for new windows?
The cost of windows depends on the complexity of the construction, as well as the functionality given to the window during the production process. The type of window, the type of glazing, the way it opens these are design features that also form the cost, in addition to the functionality. An ordinary pivoting window without enhanced security, additional soundproofing and energy-saving functions, will cost much less than double-glazed windows with all these qualities. However, it is important to understand that energy efficiency will reduce heating costs, noise insulation will ensure quietness by eliminating outside noise, and impact resistance will consequently increase security. You are paying for high quality, but not throwing your money away.
What are the best windows for insulation?
Each type of windows with certain coatings, such as Low-E (Hard-Coat) or Low-E (Soft-Coat), magnetron coating, or lamination, provide good noise insulation and energy efficiency. Low-E (Hard-Coat) hard coating is produced by pyrolysis technology, which protects the glass and also insulates the energy, resulting in minimal energy loss. Magnetron sputtering in Low-E (Soft-Coat) coating performs the same functions, but also repels noise waves. The lamination works according to the same principle. In addition to the coatings, the chamber between the panes ensures reliable insulation. The more chambers (double, triple glazing), the better the insulation performance is. The space between the panes is either filled with air or gas. The gas filling creates a vacuum, absorbs sounds and stores energy. It is much more effective than filling the chamber with air. So, for effective soundproofing, you need a quality coating and a gas-filled chamber. The thickness of the glass also plays a role.
What are the disadvantages of fiberglass windows?

The disadvantages may become apparent during use. But only in the event that you bought the window from an unscrupulous company, hired to install windows by inexperienced workers.

Practice shows that high-quality uPVC windows do not have disadvantages. There is still the matter of how to choose and what to rely on in the choice. If you have a small flat, and you bought a three-leaf type of window with hinged sashes and without the possibility of tilting during operation you will face discomfort. Also, if you require increased noise protection, but you have saved money and bought glazing without this feature, soon you will be disappointed and will think that the windows are of poor quality. Therefore, always consult with an expert and choose a reliable and trustworthy company. Do not install windows yourself! Factory-made windows, made from quality profiles, installed high-performance insulating glass, installed by experienced craftsmen will last long and efficiently.

What is the cheapest style of window?
Single glazing can be categorized as the most inexpensive window. It is also the most inefficient. This type of window may be installed in a country house which does not require a certain level of security or noise insulation, where requirements for energy efficiency are minimal. Also, low cost is offered by those who produce low-quality windows somewhere in a garage, but not in a production facility. Remember, quality does not come cheap. If your budget does not allow for the purchase of high-quality glazing, it is better to postpone this venture. By spending on low quality glazing you run the risk of overpaying for re-installation in the future.
What should I look for when buying new windows?
When looking for windows, look at what tasks it should perform, what the design of the window should be, whether the company does comprehensive glazing of houses, what experience the company has in selling and installing glazing, and whether the company has its own production. These are very important factors that influence the satisfactory solution to your home and workspace glazing problems. Familiarize yourself with the company’s products, whether the range is wide enough; pay attention to how competent the manager of the company is. The choice of windows should be made carefully, taking into account all the architectural features of the room, the design, and the specifics of the climate. This will determine how coziness the room will be, how easy it will be to explore the windows and how long it will last.
Which windows are most energy efficient?

The energy efficiency of the window is determined by: what is the space between the panes, whether the window has a protective coating which includes silver oxide (this is one of the main indicators), how well the window is installed, how strong the sealant is. The frame of an energy-saving type of window is made of a material of low heat conductivity which is polymer. A good quality polymer has low thermal conductivity and is resistant to external influences. If the window has the above characteristics then it is an energy efficient window.

What energy efficient windows give:

  • low thermal conductivity of the windows (protecting against heat in summer and retaining heat in winter);
  • preservation of heat in the room (due to the infrared reflective coating);
  • no condensation on the inner surface of the energy-saving window;
  • less weight; one or two chambers are sufficient for efficient energy saving.
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