Window Styles
How to Choose the Right Window Styles
Double-hung, casement, sliding, picture, bay, awning and specialty windows compared — plus how to match styles to your home, budget and energy goals.
Key takeaways
- Eight styles cover most homes: double-hung, single-hung, sliding, casement, awning, picture, bay/bow and skylights.
- Match the style to the room's purpose, your home's architecture and the view.
- Look at NFRC ratings and ENERGY STAR certification to compare efficiency.
Choosing window styles is about more than looks. The right style affects ventilation, light, views, energy efficiency, cleaning and even safety. Here’s a practical guide to the most popular window styles and how to choose among them.
The most popular window styles
| Style | How it opens | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Double-hung | Both sashes slide up and down | Traditional homes, flexible ventilation, easy cleaning |
| Single-hung | Bottom sash slides up | Budget-friendly projects |
| Sliding | Sashes glide sideways | Wide openings, ranch and contemporary homes |
| Casement | Hinged on the side, cranks outward | Hard-to-reach spots, maximum airflow, tight seal |
| Awning | Hinged at the top, opens outward | Bathrooms, above counters, ventilation in light rain |
| Picture | Fixed — doesn’t open | Views and maximum light |
| Bay / bow | Projects outward from the wall | Adding space, light and a window seat |
| Skylight | In the roof | Bringing daylight into interior rooms |
Matching styles to the room
- Living rooms often pair a large picture window with operable casements or sliders on either side.
- Kitchens benefit from awning or casement windows over the sink, which are easy to open with a crank.
- Bedrooms need at least one window that meets egress requirements for emergency escape.
- Bathrooms often use awning windows or obscure glass for privacy with ventilation.
Matching styles to your home’s architecture
Window style can make or break curb appeal. Traditional homes usually look best with double-hung or casement windows, sometimes with grids. Modern homes lean toward large picture windows, slim frames and dark exterior colors. Bay windows add character to older homes, while sliders suit ranch and contemporary designs. For older homes, choosing styles that respect the original character helps maintain value.
Cost considerations
Price varies widely by style, size, material and installation. Fixed picture windows are often efficient and economical for their size; casements and specialty shapes typically cost more than sliders or single-hungs. The most accurate number comes from a measured, written quote — and remember to compare installed prices, not just product prices.
Energy efficiency and window styles
Casement and awning windows seal tightly against the frame when closed, and fixed picture windows have no moving sash to leak air, so these styles tend to perform very well. Whatever the style, look for low-E glass, gas fills and ENERGY STAR certification, and compare the NFRC ratings — see our guide to energy-efficient windows.
Installation and maintenance
Professional installation is crucial — improper installation leads to drafts, leaks and sticking sashes. After installation, simple maintenance like cleaning tracks, checking weatherstripping and keeping weep holes clear will keep your windows working for decades.
Signs you need new windows
Look for drafts, condensation or fog between the panes, windows that are hard to open or close, water damage around frames, and rising energy bills. Addressing these early prevents more expensive damage later.
Specialty windows
- Egress windows are required in basement bedrooms and must meet building-code size requirements.
- Skylights bring daylight into rooms without wall space for windows.
- Transom windows add light above doors and other windows.
- Custom shapes — arches, circles and angles — add architectural interest.
Window treatments
Blinds, shades, curtains and shutters work alongside your windows to control glare, privacy and heat gain. Choose treatments that complement the window style and don’t block the sash from operating.
Get professional advice
A professional consultation helps you weigh trends, efficiency, code requirements and budget, and avoid common pitfalls. For personalized recommendations in the Reno area, request a free consultation with Legacy Glass or learn more about our window replacement service.
