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Types of Windows: A Beginner’s Guide

Buying the right windows for your home is about more than just looks – it’s about style, functionality, and energy efficiency. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This guide will run through the most common types of windows, their features, and where they work best, so you can make informed decisions that suit you and your needs.

Casement windows

Casement windows are a classic choice, known for their versatility and ease of use. These windows are hinged on one side and open out like a door, making them perfect for ventilation. Their unobstructed design gives you clear views and maximum natural light, which makes them a popular choice for kitchens and living rooms. Casement windows have a modern look and work well with minimalist or contemporary architectural styles. Plus, their tight seal when closed means they’re a practical choice for UK homes.

Tilt-and-turn windows

Tilt-and-turn windows are a clever design that’s functional and stylish. These windows can tilt in from the top for gentle ventilation, or open out fully like a door for easy cleaning and maximum airflow. This dual functionality is perfect for homes where space is limited or where maintenance is key. They’re especially good in bedrooms and bathrooms, where you need secure ventilation. They have a modern look and work well in urban homes or properties with a European style.

Sliding windows

Sliding windows are a practical and stylish solution for homeowners who need space-saving options. These windows slide horizontally along a track, are easy to use and clean, and have a sleek look. Sliding windows are great for rooms that open onto patios or gardens, as they provide a seamless link between indoor and outdoor living. Their design allows for big openings, so they’re perfect for maximising views and natural light.

Sash windows

Sash windows are a classic British style that adds charm and character to period homes. These windows have one or more movable panels, or sashes, that slide up and down, or side to side. Often found in Georgian or Victorian homes, sash windows are loved for their elegance and heritage. Modern versions come with improved insulation and double glazing, so you can have contemporary living with classic looks. Sash windows work well in any room where you want to show off traditional architecture.

Dormer windows

Dormer windows are an architectural feature that projects vertically from a sloping roof, giving you extra headroom and natural light in loft conversions or upper floors. These windows are a practical solution for making attic spaces more habitable. Dormer windows come in different styles – gable, shed, and eyebrow – so they work with traditional and modern designs.

Skylights

Skylights are a great way to bring in natural light where traditional windows can’t go. Installed into the roof, skylights are perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and attic rooms. Kitchen extensions with skylights are recently one of the biggest trends in the home renovation industry. They let in a flood of daylight and make even the smallest of spaces feel bigger. Many skylights now come with energy-efficient glazing and ventilation options, so they’re a practical and stylish addition to homes that want to maximise natural light without heat loss.

Bay and bow windows

Bay and bow windows are a design statement that add style and depth to a home. A bay window projects out in a square or polygon shape, while a bow window is curved. Both create extra internal space, perfect for a snug seating area or display. They enhance curb appeal and offer panoramic views, so they are great for living rooms or dining rooms. Builders in North London often install them in traditional homes, as they fit in with local architecture. However, modern interpretations of bay and bow windows work just as well in contemporary homes.

Transom windows

Transom windows are small, horizontal windows installed above doors or other windows to let in light and ventilation. Originally a feature in old homes, transom windows are back in fashion in modern interior design. They add a touch of elegance while serving a practical purpose, especially in hallways, bathrooms, or where there’s not enough wall space for bigger windows. They’re a favourite for adding character to entranceways and living spaces.

Passive house windows

Passive house windows are the latest innovation for eco-conscious homeowners. With superior insulation and airtight construction, these windows are key to energy efficiency. They’re designed to reduce heat loss and optimise solar gain, so they are perfect for passive house builds. While they may cost more upfront, the long-term energy savings and sustainability make them a great investment.