The Types of House Glass Windows at a Low Cost

Casement and Awning Windows

• Commonly found in newer homes, casement windows are relatively inexpensive. This window design is hinged on one side and is opened by way of a hand crank on the interior-side of the window. The windows are produced in a number of different exterior appearances, and the frames are typically made of vinyl, wood, or wood clad. A single casement window design can contain more than one glass pane that opens, and tandem latches, which open all panes simultaneously with a single hand crank, may be available with this design for an additional cost. The disadvantage of casement windows is their inability to accommodate window air conditioner systems. Closely related to casement windows are awning windows. Whereas casement windows open from the side, awning windows open from either the top or bottom.

Single- and Double-Hung Windows

• Double-hung windows feature two glass panes that slide up and down along tracks within the window frame, with one pane sliding behind the other. Older double-hung windows were operated by way of pulley and counterweights that were concealed within the case molding. By contrast, modern double-hung windows are moved up and down by hand. Double-hung windows are manufactured with the ability to tilt one or both panes forward for easy cleaning. Single-hung windows differ from double-hung windows in that only the bottom glass pane opens. The frame of both window types is usually made with wood or vinyl. Double-hung windows generally cost more than single-hung windows.

Sliding Windows

• Sliding windows are essentially double-hung windows positioned horizontally rather than vertically. Rather than the glass pieces moving up and down, sliding windows move from side to side. Sliding windows usually feature two glass panes, with one pane sliding behind the other. Sliding windows are generally less expensive than single- and double-hung windows and, because they include no mechanical components, are fairly trouble free. However, sliding windows can be difficult to clean.

Bay Windows

• Generally costing a bit more than the other window designs, the cost can be minimized if bay windows are installed only in smaller window openings. Bay windows feature several glass panes that angle outward along the sides and a center section that runs parallel to the structure. Both the side panes and the center panes can be fixed, or the side panes can be opened or closed. Bay windows with movable side panels generally cost more than fixed designs.