While style preferences differ from one person to the next, every homeowner wants their home to reflect both beauty and functionality. Innovative design solutions, like open floor plans and windows that maximize natural light, elevate modern living.
Fortunately, there are many window styles available to suit the varied tastes of Birmingham homeowners. Most windows fall into two categories: fixed or operable.
Double-Hung Windows
A classic window style, double hung windows are the perfect blend of functionality and beauty. These windows allow you to open both the top and bottom sashes, optimizing airflow and making it easy for cleaning. And they’re also a great choice for energy efficiency, with tight seals that help reduce air leakage and save you money on your heating and cooling bills.
Energy-efficient double hung windows feature a space between the panes, typically filled with inert gas like argon or krypton. This adds another layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer and keeping your Birmingham home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Double hung windows can be customized with a variety of decorative glass options. Choose from tinted glass that reduces glare and UV exposure, or frosted glass for privacy without blocking natural light.
Sliding Windows
A favorite of Birmingham homeowners, slider windows open horizontally along grooves in their window frames. They’re basically double-hung windows turned on their side, which makes them perfect for spaces where outward swinging might be difficult.
These wide windows provide a broad, unobstructed view of your surroundings and allow natural light to penetrate deeper into your home. They can also complement a traditional style aesthetic with design elements like muntins and grilles.
Sliding windows are easy to operate and offer great ventilation. However, you’ll need to remove their sashes to clean them, unlike other window styles that tilt in for hassle-free cleaning. This might be a drawback for some homeowners. They also don’t lock as securely as other window types. So, you’ll need to be mindful when opening and closing them.
Casement Windows
Designed to open outward, like a door, these windows feature heavy duty hinges and a single crank mechanism. They are a great choice for hard to reach spots, such as over the kitchen sink or in projecting styles like bay and bow windows. Their sleek design also pairs well with a variety of architecture styles.
Their single sash design eliminates opportunities for air leakage and their hinged opening creates an unobstructed view of your view. They also pair nicely with venting options such as awning windows. A dark bronze finish enhances their clean lines and helps them blend in with the varying weather conditions of West Central Alabama.
Bay & Bow Windows
As the name implies, bay and bow windows extend outward from your home’s wall. They typically feature three separate window units positioned to create a distinct design, offering unobstructed views of the landscape and the surrounding neighborhood.
They also make a wonderful focal point in the room, adding depth and character. They offer ample space to showcase your decorative flair, from souvenirs from travels to treasured family heirlooms.
The window sill is ideal for growing sun-loving plants like ferns and herbs. They add a sense of nature to your home, while helping reduce your energy bills by increasing natural light throughout the day.
Garden Windows
Providing natural light and a space for plants, this window style transforms living spaces and adds charm to your home. They are perfect for kitchens, above sinks and in breakfast nooks.
They are a great choice for new homes or replacement windows. The aluminum cladding provides superior durability and protection against the elements. They also offer excellent insulation for improved energy efficiency.
The sashes can be cranked open or tilt in for easy cleaning. This unique window type is a beautiful addition to your home and offers plenty of sun exposure for growing plants, herbs and other decorative items. Adding garden windows can increase the value of your property and create a unique space for showing off favorite plants. They can even be used to showcase a special piece of furniture.