Do you have a window in your house that’s foggy or drafty? Do you need to use super-strength to get the window open? Do you have to cross your fingers and hope that the window stays up?
If you said yes to any of those questions, it’s time to replace that window. But now the question is, what type of window should you choose? Double-hung, casement, picture?
Picture windows are the perfect choice if you want to create a room with a gorgeous view. Installing these windows can also save you money and might even make you healthier.
Keep reading to learn what a picture window is and why you should install one in your home.
What are Picture Windows?
Put simply, a picture window is a pane of glass that is fixed, which means it can’t be opened. This window gets its name because it frames a view of the outdoors, like a picture. They can also be called fixed windows.
These windows are known for showing off wide, expansive views of the great outdoors.
While this type of window is stationary by definition, there are some models that open. But, this is very new technology where the entire frame pushes out. that can be costly.
More Natural Light
Fixed windows let in more natural light because they have minimal frames, unlike other types of windows like double-hung or casement (also called crank out windows). They can also be larger than any other type of window because of their simple design.
You’ll also save money on your electric bill thanks to the extra natural light. During the day, you won’t need to have as many lights on.
Aside from a cheaper electric bill, the extra natural light from these windows can make you healthier. At least 45% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D from a lack of sun exposure. Fixed windows will expose you to more sunlight which can give you more energy and improve your mood.
More Affordable Than Other Window Types
Compared to movable windows that are similar sizes, fixed windows are less expensive. This is because their construction is simpler and they have no moving parts or hardware.
The most budget-friendly way to install a fixed window is to use a window opening that already exists. These are known as replacement windows because they use the same measurements as the old windows. They are cheaper than new construction windows because you don’t need to reconstruct the window opening.
More Energy Efficient
Between 25 and 30% of the heat loss and gain in your house comes from the windows. Picture windows can prevent a lot of heat loss because they are completely sealed shut so there is no air leakage.
Most heat loss from a window actually escapes from the frame and not the glass. Since fixed windows have very minimal frames there is less room for heat to escape.
Since these windows can’t be opened for ventilation, they can make rooms warmer than other types of windows would. Luckily, manufacturers offer several solutions to this issue.
You can choose to get double or triple pane windows for better insulation. Windows with two or three layers of glass will also be quieter. Many of these windows are made with argon gas between the panes for extra insulation.
You can also get windows with low-E coating. This is a glaze that which reflects sunlight away from house in warm weather and into the house in cold weather.
Picture Windows Last Longer
Most moveable windows, even well-maintained ones, will need to be replaced after 20 or 30 years. Since fixed windows don’t have movable parts that can break, they will last longer than most other types of windows. You won’t need to worry about replacing torn screens, broken latches, or warped frames.
Windows also last longer when you clean them regularly. Picture windows are easier to clean than other window types because they are just a smooth piece of glass.
For example, double-hung windows have sashes and trim to clean around so it can take a long time to clean them thoroughly. Since double-hung windows can open, dirt and dust collects between the screen and the glass even when you don’t open them very often. Fixed windows don’t have these features so cleaning will be a breeze.
Add Style to Your Home
Aside from the practical function of windows, a picture window can also be a great style update for your home.
These windows can help create a focal point in a room that doesn’t have one. For example, if your living room doesn’t have a natural focal point like a fireplace, a window update could be a great facelift. This focal point can guide your decorating choices later on, like where to put lamps or the sofa.
You can also use this type of window to show off your garden, a water feature, or a gazebo in your backyard. Since these windows have minimal frames, it will be easy to appreciate your gorgeous yard from inside your home.
You can also get creative with different window sizes and shapes. Standard picture window sizes are usually 2 to 8 feet wide and 1 to 8 feet tall. They can come in unusual shapes like circles, octagons, arches, and more.
Grilles are another way to give these windows an interesting design. They add decorative patterns to windows and come in different colors.
If you need to sell your house someday, this type of window might make your house more attractive to buyers. Not only will the window show off a great view of the outdoors, but the bright natural light will also make the room look bigger.
Replacing Your Windows
Windows don’t last forever. Eventually you’ll have to replace them.
For your next project, consider installing a picture window. They can save you money, update the design of your home, and give you more natural light.
Adding a fixed window might make that room your new favorite place in the house. You might even wonder why it took you so long to do it.
To read about more home topics like this one, check out our house category.
Leave a Reply