Sliding Window Techniques

Horizontal Sliding Styles

• Horizontal sliding windows have a minimum of two side-by-side window panes. One pane typically slides over the top of the outermost one on a metal track at the bottom of the window. A locking mechanism on the vertical edge of the moveable window secures the window shut. This window type provides unimpeded views and is available with thermal panes or double-paned glass for added energy savings.

Single- vs. Double-Sliding Types

• Higher end horizontal windows have two moveable sashes that allow twice as much air into the room as they open from either side and rest on top of each other. While this style is practical for rooms in which maximum airflow is desired, they have more leakage than single-sliding types, which can allow cold air to seep inside during winter months.

Vertical Sliding Windows

• This style is less common and typically features two panes on top of one another. In single pane vertical sliding windows, the lower pane slides up and down over the stationary top pane on tracks that run up both sides of the window. The lock on single hung vertical sliding windows is usually at the base of the bottom window. Energy-saving panes are available on vertical sliding windows.

Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung

• People with pets and small children frequently choose double hung vertical sliding windows for security reasons. Double-hung styles have openable top and bottom panes, so air can be let into the room by opening the top window and leaving the bottom one locked, which prevents children and pets from climbing or falling out of them. The top window in double-hung styles is typically high enough to prevent access by small children and dogs.

Pros and Cons of Sliding Windows

• Besides being easy to install and clean, sliding windows are appropriate choices for buildings with awnings or decks that would prevent opening casement windows with panes that extend from the inside out when opened. However, they are not as airtight as casement windows and are recommended for dry, warm climates where keeping icy wind and precipitation at bay is not a major concern.