Window Types

See the most popular styles and how to choose the right ones for each room.

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WHAT THIS PAGE COVERS

Not every window opens the same way. Some slide, some crank out, some don't open at all. The style you pick affects how much air moves through a room, how much light comes in, and whether you can actually reach the thing to clean it.

Different rooms need different approaches. A kitchen window over the sink works better with certain styles. A living room with a view calls for something else entirely. Basement windows have their own requirements—ventilation without sacrificing privacy.

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Here's what you'll see on this page:

The most common vinyl window styles and what makes each one different

A quick comparison of ventilation, light, and cleaning ease across styles

Energy-efficient features available on all our custom-made vinyl windows

Room-by-room guidance to help you match styles to your spaces

How to get started with a free estimate and flexible financing options

We work with seven main window styles, all available in premium vinyl construction. Each one handles differently and fits specific situations better than others.

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Double-Hung

Opens from the top or bottom. Both sashes tilt in for easy cleaning from inside. Works in most rooms and fits traditional home styles.

Versatile placement—fits almost anywhere

Clean from inside—both sashes tilt inward

Good airflow control—open top, bottom, or both

Learn more about double-hung windows

Casement

Side-hinged window that cranks open like a door. Creates a wide opening for maximum ventilation. Great where you want unobstructed views and strong airflow.

Strong ventilation—full opening catches cross breezes

Easy operation—crank handle, no lifting

Tight seal when closed—compresses against frame

Learn more about casement windows

Slider (2-lite / 3-lite)

Glides horizontally on a track. Good fit for areas where an outward-swinging window would block walkways or decks. Simple operation with no cranks or lifting.

Works in tight spaces—no swing clearance needed

Wide view—minimal frame obstruction

Learn more about sliding windows

Picture (Fixed)

Doesn't open. Designed for maximum light and unobstructed views. Most energy-efficient option because there are no moving parts or seals to fail.

Maximum natural light—largest glass area

Unobstructed views—minimal framing

Learn more about picture windows

Bay & Bow

Projects outward from the wall, creating interior space and a focal point. Combines multiple window styles (usually a picture center with operable sides). Architectural feature that adds dimension.

Adds usable space—shelf or seating area

Curb appeal boost—exterior focal point

Learn more about bay and bow windows

Garden

Small greenhouse-style projection, usually installed near kitchens or above sinks. Adds space for plants or display items while bringing in extra light from multiple angles.

Perfect for plants—multi-angle sunlight

Compact projection—doesn't take much wall space

Kitchen favorite—fits over sinks and counters

Learn more about garden windows

Hopper

Hinged at the bottom, tilts inward from the top. Common in basements and bathrooms where you want ventilation but need to keep the window high on the wall for privacy or clearance.

Privacy-friendly—mount high on wall

Controlled ventilation—tilts inward

Compact—fits small openings well

Learn more about hopper windows

QUICK COMPARE: WHICH STYLE FITS WHERE?

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Maximum Ventilation

→ Casement, Hopper
Full opening; casement catches breezes well

Natural Light

→ Picture, Bay & Bow
Largest glass area with minimal frame

Unobstructed Views

→ Picture, Slider
Clean sightlines without divided sashes

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Dark gray lap on main level; white board & batten on gables; black window trim.

Tight Spaces (No Swing Room)

→ Slider, Hopper
No clearance needed outside or inside

Easy Cleaning from Inside

→ Double-Hung, Hopper
Sashes tilt inward; no ladder needed

Works Well Over Sinks

→ Casement, Garden
Crank or project outward; no reaching required

Best for Kitchens

→ Casement, Garden, Slider
Easy operation; good ventilation

Best for Living Areas

→ Picture, Bay & Bow, Double-Hung
Light, views, or traditional aesthetics

Best for Bathrooms

→ Hopper, Casement
Privacy placement; controlled ventilation

Best for Basements

→ Hopper, Slider
High mounting; horizontal fit for short walls

No single style does everything. Most homes use a mix—sliders where space is tight, casements for ventilation, picture windows for views, and double-hung where tradition or resale value matters.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT FEATURES

Double or Triple Pane Options:
More glass layers create more insulation. Triple pane adds weight and cost but performs better in extreme climates.

Argon or Krypton Gas Fills:
Inert gas between panes insulates better than regular air. Argon is standard; krypton costs more but works better in tight spaces.

Warm-Edge Spacers:
The material separating glass panes matters. Warm-edge spacers reduce heat loss at the edges where condensation usually starts.

Weather-Resistant Seals:
Quality seals around operable sashes stop drafts and moisture. Vinyl doesn't swell or shrink like wood, so seals stay consistent across seasons.
All these features are available regardless of which window style you choose. You're not locked into one efficiency level based on whether you want a slider or a casement.

These features add up to real energy savings. When you replace all your windows with us, we guarantee 33% energy savings—lower heating and cooling costs that you'll see on your utility bills.

HOW TO CHOOSE: ROOM-BY-ROOM TIPS

Kitchen and Cooking Areas:
Windows above sinks need easy operation without leaning over the counter. Casement styles work well because you crank them open with one hand. Garden windows add space for herbs or display. Sliders fit if you have side clearance but limited reach.

Living Rooms and View Walls:
If the goal is light and sightlines, picture windows deliver the most glass with the least frame. Combine them with operable styles on the sides for ventilation when you need it. Bay and bow windows work when you want to make the room feel larger and add a focal point.

Bathrooms
Privacy matters, so you're usually mounting windows higher on the wall. Hopper styles tilt inward from the top, letting air move without exposing the room. Casements work too, especially if the window sits above eye level from outside.

Basements and Low Ceilings:
Horizontal styles fit better in short wall sections. Sliders and hoppers both work. Hoppers tilt inward, which can be useful if you're near grade and want to avoid water coming in during rain.

Bedrooms:
Double-hung styles are common here because they fit traditional layouts and you can control airflow by opening top, bottom, or both. Casements work too if you want stronger ventilation or a more contemporary look.

Tight Exterior Spaces (Walkways, Decks, Patios):
If a window would block a path when open, sliders make sense. They stay within the frame line and don't swing into traffic areas.
No rule says you have to use the same style throughout the house. Mixing styles based on room function usually makes more sense than forcing one type everywhere.

FINANCING + NEXT STEPS

Window replacement fits into monthly budgets through flexible payment plans. Most approvals happen within 24 hours, and you can review options before committing to an installation timeline.

We provide free estimates that cover window styles, sizing, and energy options for your specific home. You'll know exactly what each choice costs before moving forward.

Explore window cost calculator See Financing Options

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From the first consultation to the final installation, everything was smooth and organized. The crew showed up on time, explained the process, and delivered exactly what they promised.

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We replaced our old siding and instantly noticed the difference in appearance and insulation. The materials feel solid and the installation was flawless.

David Thompson

As a new homeowner, I was nervous about choosing a contractor. These guys made everything easy and stress-free. The workmanship is excellent.

Angela Brooks

We had siding replaced on one of our rental properties and were impressed by how quickly and professionally it was done. Tenants are happy and the building looks great.

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