Windows are sometimes practical and sometimes fun. For example, garden windows do nothing to emit more light into the room. Yet homeowners report that they feel garden windows have an "airy" and "open" feeling. Also, they're great for plants.
Here are some basic window styles:
Awning Window
An awning window hinges opens horizontally. When open, an awning window forms a type of protective cover for the open window space.Good: Awning windows can be left open during light rains.
Bad: Do not allow much airflow.
Bay Window
A three-sided configuration of a fixed window at center and two openable units on either side.Good: Bay windows add space to a room.
Bad: Requires special installation.
Bow Window
Similar to the bay window, the bow window is more complex in that it uses more windows to create a smoother curve.Good: A premium window.
Bad: Likely one of the most expensive windows you can buy.
Casement Window
Casement windows, also called "crank windows,' are just that: windows that hinge vertically and open with a crank.Good: An easy way to open windows, as opposed to double-hung window units.
Bad: Cranks can fail. Windows do not let much airflow into the house.
Double-Hung Window
The classic window--the double-hung consists of a fixed upper sash and a sliding lower sash (up and down).Good: Looks great with almost any house style.
Bad: Can be hard to lift sash.
Fixed Window
A fixed window does not open or close. It is essentially a sheet of glass sealed into the window opening.Good: Maximum weatherproofing, since there are no seams or openings for warm or cool air from house to escape.
Bad: Your house relies entirely on artificial climate control since the windows can never be opened.
Skylight
A skylight is a window for your roof. Most skylights are fixed in place.Good: Skylights are a great way to bring in more light into your house.
Bad: Difficulty of installation, requiring cutting space into your room and building a "light tunnel" between roof and room.
Slider Window
Think of a slider window as a horizontal double-hung. It's one fixed sash plus another, moving sash that slides on a track side to side.Good: These inexpensive windows let in tons of air.
Bad: Sliders are not considered premium windows (but who knows, they may have their come-back some day!).
