Window Styles

Horizontal sliding windows have quickly become a popular choice in window type.  One reason for this is that slider windows are able to be installed into wider openings than any other window type.   This design advantage allows more light into a room, with a single operable window.  In contrast, window manufacturers limit how wide they build traditional Casement, Single-Hung or Double-Hung windows. Using a single window frame, manufacturers can typically build hung windows up to 52” wide. Whereas manufacturers can build horizontal sliding windows up to 96” wide.  The wider window frame also gives you the ability to create more ventilation.

Window professionals consider Horizontal sliding windows a low-maintenance window type.  Slider Windows also have the fewest amount of mechanical parts that can fail over time. Consequently, window manufacturers are able to sell slider windows at the most affordable rate because there are fewer mechanical parts.

Horizontal sliding windows do have some disadvantages, though.   For example, when slider windows are built too tall, homeowners may find that glass can separate from the sash frame.  Over time, a person causes the separation by grabbing the sash frame and pulling the sash open and closed repeatedly .  Repeated pulling motion over time can cause the sealant, that secures the glass to the frame, to fail. When this happens, exterior air can move between the glass and the frame - causing a window to feel drafty.  Even if glass separation doesn't happen, slider windows do not perform as well with Air Infiltration as other window types.

Horizontal sliders also have a tendency to collect dirt in the track that the window slides over.  If not cleaned regularly, dirt will inevitably begin building up in the rollers in the bottom of the sash. In time, the build-up can cause difficulty in operation or even cause mechanical breakage.

Picture, or fixed sash, windows are windows cannot be opened for ventilation.  Often, this window type’s primary purpose is to enjoy a beautiful view. Homeowners are able to enjoy their view more fully because picture windows eliminate the need for additional horizontal or vertical window framing.  This additional framing breaks the line of sight - as seen with slider windows and single (or double) hung windows.

Because picture windows do not open, they are also the most affordable window type.  This is largely due to the reduction in frame material and mechanical parts. Throughout the life of the window the cost is further reduced because of lack of mechanical parts to replace - to keep the window functioning properly.

Another great benefit of picture windows is that they can provide architectural accents through the ability to be produced in a variety of shapes.  Their ability to be manufactured in a variety of shapes is really contributed to not having the requirement to be opened for ventilation.

Picture windows are also the most energy efficient window type available.  Specifically, picture windows are the most efficient at blocking air infiltration.  

There are not a lot of disadvantages of picture windows.  However, there are a couple. For example, picture windows do not have the ability for ventilation.  Having the ability to ventilate can be particularly important in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or indoor hot tub rooms.

If glass is broken or needs replacement, in a large picture windows, the cost can be significantly more than other types of windows.  For example, if glass is broken in a single-hung window, likely only one glass unit would need to be replaced.  So, only half of the glass within the frame would need to be replaced - whereas all of the glass within a picture window frame would need to be replaced.