It’s not just the materials that make a window provide better energy efficiency, what with different styles offering their own way of keeping a home ventilated, insulated and illuminated. Knowing what each style has to offer can help you decide which one to get to achieve your energy-efficiency goals.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows provide great ventilation control as both sashes are operable, allowing homeowners to use just one or both depending on their needs. They also let in moderate amounts of natural light, contributing to daylighting needs.
Casement Windows
Because casement windows can be opened all the way, they create the best opportunities for ventilation. Their large openings let a lot of air in and out and the sash can be angled in such a way that it captures breezes effectively.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows can only open as wide as one sash. However, sliding window sashes are generally bigger than the ones double-hung windows use so the former is able to offer better ventilation. Glass areas are also usually unobstructed by muntins, letting in a lot of light into a room to aid in illumination during the day.
Bow & Bay Windows
Bow and bay windows are both made up of a series of smaller windows configured together, creating large areas of glass that let homeowners take advantage of natural light. All those windows also mean more openings, allowing bow and bay windows to provide excellent ventilation and expansive views.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are also known as fixed windows because they can’t be opened. This means they can’t offer ventilation because they are sealed, but picture windows are the best option for optimal insulation. Picture windows also have some of the largest glass areas around, making them great daylighting tools.
We’ll be wrapping up this three-part blog series by talking about how window features contribute to achieving energy efficiency in a home, complementing style and material options.
