When it comes to window styles Houston TX, the options are endless. To combat our climate’s extreme heat and humidity, double-pane windows crafted from low-E glass are ideal. Their ultra-thin coating limits solar heat infiltration and promotes a consistent indoor temperature year round.
Aluminum frames with argon gas infill offer superior energy efficiency compared to traditional window models. These are a great choice for modern and Mediterranean-style homes.
Double-Hung Windows
The most popular type of window in Houston homes, double-hung windows have two movable sashes. This design allows you to open both the top and bottom sashes for ventilation. It’s ideal for homes with children and pets since the upper sash can be opened outward, away from their reach.
The sashes can also be tilted inward for easy cleaning from inside your home. This is an advantage in harsh climates like Houston where humid conditions can damage windows that don’t have this feature. However, a downside is that they require more moving parts and are thus a bit more expensive than single-hung windows. They are also more prone to air leaks if they’re not properly sealed. Consult with your licensed window installation contractor to make sure your new windows are airtight.
Casement Windows
Like awning windows, casement windows swing open on a side hinge and feature sleek frames for a modern or traditional aesthetic. They provide superior airflow, easy-to-use hand cranks and customization options such as glass and grille patterns.
Unlike sliding window styles, casement windows close by pressing against the frame rather than relying on gaps that can cause leaks and seal failure. They are also easier to clean since they don’t have obstructive eye-level check rails.
The hinged design also allows for better ventilation because it can be opened at a specific angle. This creates a funnel for breezes to flow into your home, making it an excellent choice for areas that cannot be opened up as easily with double-hung windows. Plus, they offer enhanced security because of their hook shaped locks that embed into the frame.
Picture Windows
Picture windows allow natural light to flood your space while offering a view of the outdoors. This allows you to enjoy the beauty of your scenery without dealing with pesky insects or allergens.
As non-operational windows, they don’t open – but they’re often paired with other window styles that can provide airflow. For instance, you can have a picture window in the middle flanked on either side by double-hung windows.
Modern picture windows come with energy-efficient features that help reduce your energy bills. They use glass and seals that minimize heat transfer, allowing your home or establishment to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. In addition, custom grids enable homeowners to create a unique design that complements their décor. From a geometric pattern to a family crest, this is a great way to express your creativity and add character to your home.
Bay Windows
Add eye-catching, functional beauty to your home with beautiful bay windows. This window style offers many benefits, from added interior space to enhanced curb appeal and increased home value.
Bay window prices vary based on the framing material you choose. For example, wood frames are more expensive than aluminum frames because they require regular staining and sealing. Wood also expands and contracts based on temperature and humidity, which can cause it to crack and degrade over time.
Another way to keep bay window installation costs down is to opt for a basic design without a built-in bench or other customizations. Also, choosing a window with ENERGY STAR certification will help you save on your energy bills over the long term. Contact several companies to get quotes and compare options before making a decision.
Bow Windows
Bow windows, similar to bay windows, protrude outward from your home’s exterior walls and dramatically change the feel of a room or house. They’re built from multiple window panes curved together and offer large views and more sunlight than standard flat windows.
The difference between bay and bow windows is that a bay window usually has three openings in an angled projection, while a bow window has four or five windows set into a rounded curve. They also allow you to add seating, storage or decorations along the wide ledge for a more dramatic look.
Both bay and bow windows provide panoramic outdoor views and extra sunlight without costly renovations or wall demolition. The two window styles complement a variety of decor styles, from traditional to contemporary, and are available in a range of materials.