Knowing your bay window from your casement window can be difficult, especially if you’re new to renovations. From choosing the right style to adding a touch of personality through accessories, as experts in double glazing in Milton Keynes, we understand that the endless options can be daunting. To help you on your journey to choosing the perfect new addition to your home, we’ve pieced together a guide to the different window types, glass options and more.
A Comprehensive Guide To Window Types
Our family-run business has become a reputable name across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas, helping thousands of clients to make the right design decisions for their homes. With an interactive showroom and extensive colour, material and finish options available, it’s never been easier to customise your new windows to your home. In this article, we will run through just some of the most commonly chosen window, glass, handle and glass types amongst our clients, helping to inspire your next project.
Types Of Windows
Our experts in double glazing in Milton Keynes offer a host of different window types for you to choose from, each of which promises their own traits and benefits that make them suited to different homes.
Tilt & Turn
This window type is incredibly functional and offers an easy, seamless design, which works by tilting and turning the handle (hence the name). Due to this operating system, tilt and turn windows are extremely easy to clean as you can reach both sides from inside your home, making them straightforward to maintain. They also maximise your living space by allowing more natural light, which creates the illusion of a bigger, airier space.
While tilt and turn windows can slot seamlessly into any home, they are particularly suited to modern, contemporary properties thanks to their clean, sleek design. In more recent years, we have found them also to be popular as an addition to our conservatories in Milton Keynes.
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Slide Sash Windows
Slide sash windows have a traditional appearance, making them perfect for a period or Victorian home. Featuring two vertically sliding panels, also known as sashes, which move up and down within the frame, this window type is both aesthetic and functional. In terms of benefits, slide sash windows allow for effective ventilation control, enhanced security, and minimal maintenance, making them a fantastic choice for those looking for a timeless yet durable window type.
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Casement Windows
Casement is a style of window that is hinged on one side and opens outward, typically operated with a crank mechanism. These windows are known for their simplicity, functionality, and ability to provide excellent ventilation. Casement windows are attached to the window frame by one or more hinges and can be swung open to the left or right, allowing for a wide, unobstructed view. They are typically designed with multiple sealing points, providing a tight seal when closed and, in return, contributing to better energy efficiency.
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Georgian Windows
These windows have an extensive history of popularity, ranging from the 1700s and 1800s all the way up to the modern 21st century. Their timeless appeal lies in their sleek, clean look, often associated with traditional and period properties.
Available as either a casement or slide sash window, the Georgian style can be easily recognised, thanks to its multiple panes, which create a grid-like pattern. Bars are then incorporated into the design to divide the panes and create an ornate appearance.
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Bay Window
This window type is a true classic in older homes, such as Victorian or Edwardian properties. Their speciality lies in the fact that they project out from the exterior wall line and extend to the floor, allowing them a fantastic panoramic view. Because they host many windows, they allow for more ventilation and can flood the room with extra light, creating a cosy sitting area to unwind. However, bay windows are considered an extension, meaning you will require planning permission to install a window if it is positioned at the front of the house.
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Types Of Glass For Windows
Glass is, of course, one of the most vital aspects of a window, meaning choosing the right type is essential. The first consideration should be whether you will opt for double or triple glazing. Designed with either two or three panes of glass, each separated by a layer of argon gas, both glazing types add an insulating barrier to your home, reducing heat loss and, therefore, improving efficiency.
Typically, double glazing remains the most popular option; however, the decision comes down to budget and climate. If you live in an area with extremely low temperatures, then triple glazing would offer better insulation but will be more expensive. For more information on the difference between double and triple glazing, take a look at Checkatrade.
Along with deciding between double or triple glazing, there are also several types of glass finishes, such as:
- Laminated Glass: This type is the best option if you’re searching for premium safety and security, as it is considered one of the most robust glass options.
- Obscured Glass: Obscured or frosted glass is typically used for bathrooms as it reduces transparency and provides added privacy.
- Tempered Glass: This type of glass is around four times stronger than typical glass and, when smashed, disintegrates into small chunks.
Types Of Window Handles
The handles are an excellent way to customise your windows to your style and functionality preferences. Learn more about the most popular options below:
- Crank Handles: These handles are used for casement windows and are operated by turning a crank to open or close the window.
- Pull Handles: Sliding windows usually have a simple pull handle that allows you to slide the window open or closed.
- Latch Handles: Some sliding windows feature latch handles that can be lifted or pressed down to lock or unlock the window.
- Cockspur Handles: Cockspur handles are typically found on older-style windows. They have a triangular wedge that secures the window in place when closed.
- Push Button Handles: These handles have a push-button mechanism for locking and unlocking the window.
- Multi-Point Locking Handles: Tilt and turn windows often have handles with multiple locking points for enhanced security.
Types Of Blinds For Windows
Available in different shapes, materials and colours, blinds are an excellent way to add a touch of personality to your windows. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Venetian Blinds: Designed with horizontal slats or panels, Venetian blinds can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering the room. The slats are typically made from materials such as wood, metal or plastic and are connected by strings or cords, which allow them to be tilted to various angles.
- Roller Blinds: Roller blinds are made of a single piece of fabric that can be rolled up or down to control both light and privacy. The fabric is attached to a roller mechanism at the top of the window, allowing you to adjust the height of the blind. This style is often used to create a blackout effect in bedrooms.
- Roman Blinds: Roman blinds combine elements of Venetian and roller blinds in that they cover the window with one sheet of fabric when lowered yet stack evenly when raised. With many different fabric options available, Roman blinds can be used for any room in the home to complete the interior design.
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Window Styles: All You Need To Know
Now that our experts have filled you with all the knowledge you need to know about every aspect of a window, you should be able to create an informed decision about the type you would love to be installed into your chosen room. From here, ensure you contact us now and get your new, fresh window expertly and seamlessly installed by our specialists! Please do not hesitate to contact us today if you have any further queries or need extra information.
