How to Choose the Right Window Style

If you’re like most homeowners who undertake a window replacement project, you want your new windows to be weathertight, functionally reliable, and energy efficient. As for looks, well, that’s a given. Nowadays, with so many stylish window options on the market, you might think, “How could I go wrong?” As home remodelers can tell you, it’s not necessarily a question of being wrong, but of choosing the style that’s most suitable – one that best complements your home’s exterior and interior, boasts all of the aforementioned features, and will work well in the room it’s meant to serve. To achieve all this, it’s helpful to keep a few considerations in mind.

Focus on windows that reflect your home’s architectural style

Whether you’re swapping out windows for ones of the same size or are looking for larger options, exterior aesthetics matter. If you intend to elevate your home’s curb appeal, stick to windows that will blend easily with its design. To see examples of windows that fit a home’s design, take a drive around a few Long Island neighborhoods. You’ll likely see modern homes with floor-to-ceiling glass windows or Traditional and Tudor homes with classic diamond-shaped mullions.

Here’s a handy reference that lists popular architectural styles and the window styles that match.

• Cape Cod – Characterized by a steep roof with side gables, this design boasts clean, classic lines that are enhanced by double-hung windows with different sash heights, as well as casement windows.
• Craftsman – Traditional double-hung windows work beautifully with this style, defined by its porch, shallow-pitched roof, and deep overhang. Awning windows and casement windows that are wider than they are tall also complement Craftsman homes.
• Ranch – To complement this simple style that features a long, low-pitch roofline and attached garage, you can use several great options: bay or bow windows flanked by casements, picture windows, or, once again, the classic double-hung.
• Split-level – This design sometimes includes a front gable and features a main level that corresponds to the primary living area. Bay or picture windows are ideal for the main area, while casement, sliders, and double-hung windows look great throughout the home.

Consider which rooms your windows will serve

Of course, the basic function of any window is to admit light, but some rooms require a lot less light than others. For instance, a double-hung is perfect for bedrooms, but for brightening a dark kitchen, or for a sense of spaciousness, a slider window – which features a wider viewing area – would be ideal. Likewise, bay and bow windows create dramatic visual character that would be desirable for a living room but considerably inappropriate for a space where privacy is key.

Alure Home Improvements Can Help

For more than 70 years, Alure Home Improvements has provided top-notch products and services to make Long Island more beautiful and livable. We offer and install a selection of durable energy-efficient windows, including Alure’s own UltraShield windows and attractive options from industry-leader Infinity from Marvin. These high-performance windows are available in a bounty of popular styles from double-hung to sliding to casement. To help you make sense of your options so that you can select styles that complement your home and meet of all of your needs, contact us today and schedule a free, in home design consultation.