10 Types of Windows for Your Home, and How to Choose the Right One

Types of windows for your home range from the ever-popular double hung, slider, and casement windows to unique types like bay windows and glass block windows. Whether buying replacement windows or new-construction windows, you'll find most of these window types available in either category. Find the right type of window for your home and budget.

Double Hung Windows

Double-hung windows feature two large sashes that slide up and down within vertical tracks. The sashes slide independently of each other.

Older double hung windows are often counterbalanced by weights hidden in wall pockets behind the case moldings. Newer double-hung windows are counterbalanced by springs hidden in the side tracks. 

Double hung windows are often used in homes with classic traditional styling, though they are also found in traditional-modern homes. Farmhouse and bungalow home styles make extensive use of double hung windows. 

Double hung windows work well for upper levels, where it's difficult to clean the windows from the outside. Upper sashes can be slid down or swung inward for cleaning.

Double hung windows can, in some cases, be a safety hazard for children. Opening the lower sash creates a large, accessible opening. Yet double hung windows can also be very safe. It's possible to keep the top sash open for ventilation while locking the bottom sash.

Single Hung Windows

Single hung windows have both an upper and a lower sash, just like double hung windows. With single hung windows, though, the upper sash is fixed in place and the lower sash can be moved up and down.

Single hung windows are a slightly lower-cost alternative to double hung windows. With fewer moving parts that potentially can break, single hung windows are easier to maintain than double hung, slider, casement, or any type of window that moves.

Single hung windows work best on first-level stories because the upper sash must be cleaned from the outside. Because the top sash is inoperable, it's not possible to open it up for ventilation as you can with double hung windows.

Casement Windows

Casement windows open and close like a door. Casement windows are controlled by a crank or another mechanism that gradually pivots the window. On the other side is a latch to hold the window locked when it is shut.

Casement windows look more modern or contemporary than double hung or single hung windows since they do not have the distinctive upper and lower sash design.

Casement windows close tightly, so they are effective at keeping out drafts. When you want air movement in the house, casement windows are able to direct outside air into the house. 

When fully extended, casement windows can be broken off by strong winds. Also, the cranking mechanisms are subject to wear and have a high failure rate.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are attached to the top of the window frame. The sash is attached at the top and it locks into place on the bottom. When fully open, an awning window looks like an awning.

Awning windows are often used in wet climates. The sash can be left open during light rain since the glass serves as an awning to prevent water from entering. Small awning windows are often used in the basement or in below-grade applications. 

Awning windows, like casement windows, operate via mechanical cranks that are subject to wear. So, they have a high failure rate and need more maintenance.

Slider Windows

Slider windows move from side to side. One or both of the sashes slide on horizontal tracks. 

Slider windows work well in modern home styles or on any type of home where a horizontal or landscape orientation is preferred over a vertical one. Popular with midcentury modern homes and ramblers, slider windows are easy to open and close and are very durable. 

With no cranks or complicated mechanisms, slider windows are simple to maintain. Slider window tracks attract dirt and debris, so they require frequent cleaning.

Fixed Windows

Fixed windows have a glass pane that is sealed within the window frame. Fixed windows do not open or close. The classic picture window is the most familiar example of a fixed window.

Fixed windows are used to provide view or light where ventilation or egress is not needed. They lend themselves to modern home styles and tend to be cheaper than other window styles.

Fixed windows can create too much energy gain in warm, sunny climates because they cannot be opened. Fixed windows provide no means of admitting fresh air. Plus, the outside of fixed windows must always be cleaned from the outside—they do not open or swing inward.

Skylight or Roof Windows

Roof windows and skylights are fixed or operable windows that are installed in a roof.

Roof windows and skylights bring light into areas where wall space for windows is limited. They can also improve light and ventilation in large open-concept rooms through the use of framed shafts, or chases, that extend from the skylight through the attic to the ceiling below. 

Bay or Bow Windows

A bay or bow window is a combination of windows that extends outward from the wall surface of the house. These windows are called bay windows when the shape of the extension is essentially square. They are known as bow windows when the shape is curved.  

Bay and bow windows are traditionally formed with a fixed center picture window flanked on the sides by one or more pairs of double-hung or casement windows. 

A bay or bow window can be used as a visual centerpiece in large living rooms, family rooms, or parlors. A window seat can be added to a bay or bow window to add seating and storage options.

Glass Block Windows

Glass block windows are fixed windows made with architectural glass blocks, usually mortared in place. The thick blocks are typically made from semi-opaque glass that allows light to pass through but still block views.

Glass block windows are most commonly used in bathrooms or other spaces where you want to introduce light while obstructing visibility. Glass blocks can also be installed in foundation walls to bring a modest amount of light into basements. Some styles of glass block windows include ventilating panels built into the unit. 

Glass block windows are very secure because not only are they fixed windows but they are mortared into place. Glass block windows can be difficult to integrate into some home styles.

Garden Windows

Garden windows are five-sided window units that extend from the side of the house, usually with glass on four sides and a solid fifth side on the bottom.

Garden windows expand the space in a room just slightly. They can hold plants that need extra sunlight, as well as heat-resistant decorative items. They don't work very well for storage because all items are on prominent display. But you can add a smaller piece like a knife block without detracting from the look.