10 Useful Tips for Choosing the Right Exterior Window Style

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There is nothing more comforting than sitting inside your home and enjoying a gorgeous view with warm sunlight shining through. Whether you think about it or not your windows are one of the best ways to bring the outdoors in and they help you connect with your exterior home for safety and security. If you are considering changing out your current windows or are designing your next home – look at these 10 useful tips for choosing the right exterior window style for your home.

1. Choose windows that reflect your home’s architectural style

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All homes have an architectural design style that makes them unique and choosing windows that match this design aesthetic is the first step in choosing the right windows. Whether you have a modern and contemporary home that features floor to ceiling glass windows and doors or you have a traditional Tudor style home with classic diamond-shaped mullions. Adhere to your home’s architectural style for guidance.

2. Decide what purpose your windows will serve

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While the basic function of windows are to let in light they can also serve as a doorway – as in a sliding glass window door for access to a porch for example or they can be fixed and ornamental just for aesthetics. Consider which rooms your windows will serve and if view is essential or is light into a dark space more essential as in a closet or pantry space. Consider using solar tubes that extend from the roof or a side wall to let light into dark spaces if a window isn’t feasible.

3. Colorful window frames and mullions:

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Depending on the color and style of architecture of your home you may opt for frames and mullions that lend color to the exterior of your home. Whether you have wood or metal frames, look to window manufacturers that offer factory colors already infused into the frame material. If you decide to give your exterior home a makeover and paint your mullions and frames, ask a paint professional the best exterior paint to use for your application.

4. Choosing the best accent colors for your window frames

Choosing an exterior paint color palette can often be a challenge. Look to the outdoors and neighboring homes to get a sense of what existing colors are present. Choose a trim color for your home, and consider using the same color on your window frames. Many homes choose to have a field color to their home and two accent colors – one for the trim of their home and one for window frames, doorways, and the garage door. Look to your local paint or home improvement center for color palettes that are pre-chosen to save you time and heartache of choosing!

5. Selecting the right window for the amount of ventilation needed 

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One of the most essential purposes of a window is to let ventilation and movement of fresh air in and out of your rooms. Deciding which type of window suits your needs will help determine the type of window. Many rooms have operable windows, which mean they can be opened or closed as needed. Fixed windows cannot be opened and are used in rooms that large expansive windows are small windows are used. Generally most homes have a combination of both types.

6. Choosing windows that appeal to your interiors

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While the exterior aesthetic of your windows are important, remember how the window functions and appeals to your interiors can create an experience inside your home. In bathrooms – look to windows that will let in light, but not provide direct viewing angles from the outdoors (unless view is obstructed, on a higher level than the ground, etc…) In public spaces, decide if the view warrants large picture windows that let in maximum light and view or if the function of the room warrants different sized and shaped windows

7. Determine the orientation of the sun before choosing windows

If you are designing your home with the assistance of an architect or contractor consider how your home sits in relation to the sun rising and setting. Depending on where you live geographically can create too much late day sun in your family room when watching television or unwelcomed rising sun in your bedroom. This practice will help ensure your home also doesn’t heat and cool unnaturally during the seasons that cost higher utility bills.

8. Different operable windows for your unique application

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Many homes utilize the classic sash window – which means the moveable portion of the window can either move up or down or left to right. Double hung windows move up and down and horizontal sliders move horizontally. Awning windows are popular in apartments and older homes and they are top or bottom hinged to allow the window to open at an angle. Hopper windows that are hinged at the bottom are used mainly over doorways or windows and should be protected by an exterior eave to shield from the elements.

9. Use your windows as the focal point of your interiors

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If you have picturesque views to take advantage of, or the architecture of your home is unique, use window styles, shapes, colors, and details to play up your interiors. Bay windows that are multiple pieces of glass placed together to form more floor space inside the home and are ideal in bathrooms, kitchens and sitting nooks. Look to unique mullion designs like these diamond details below to carry out in your interior details.

10. Windows are a great renovation project

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While your first thought for remodeling may turn to your kitchen or bath, don’t forget about replacing old windows. With newer manufacturing practices out for window brands there is an increased push for energy efficient assemblies to help save on your energy costs. Many jurisdictions give income tax credits for replacing older windows with energy efficient varieties. So don’t overlook replacing windows as an essential renovation project for your home.