Windows & Doors

For decades, if not centuries, homeowners have complained that the biggest problem with double hung windows was cleaning them. Inside, no problem. But cleaning the outside meant partially opening the top or bottom and bending an arm like a contortionist to reach a pane. The unsafe alternative was to climb out onto the roof. In recent years, window manufacturers have begun making double-hung windows with one sash that can be readily removed. It is commonly called the double-hung tilt or tilt out By removing one sash, the one still in place can be much more easily cleaned.

These windows move horizontally within guides that keep them positioned. Either one or two sashes may slide in the frame. They may ride directly on the frame, on wheels, or be suspended by overhead rollers. The exterior part of the groove containing the sliding sash contains small weep holes to drain rainwater than runs down the window. Sliding windows are often longer horizontally than they are tall, which makes them easier to move. Long, narrow sliding windows are commonly found high on bedroom walls to simultaneously provide privacy and light.

A casement window operates essentially like a door. It is hinged on one side and can swing either in or out It is operated by a crank handle and gears and can be opened 100 percent or angled to catch breezes. Because a casement window does not slide past any other part, it seals well when closed. Because casement windows open fully, they are often preferred in bedrooms where at least one window must provide a minimum opening that is 24 inches wide by 22 inches high. Not only does this requirement allow people in the room to escape in case of fire, but it also provides sufficient space for a firefighter to crawl through while wearing an oxygen pack. If a casement window opens near a deck or walkway beside the house, it may present a hazard to passersby. Conversely, inward opening windows may catch on curtains. Inward opening casement windows can have a screen mounted on the outside. Windows that open out, however, have screens on the inside that sometimes must be custom made to fit around the crank mechanism.

Bay and bow windows are similar in that both project out from the house and have three or more panes of glass to provide a view on both sides in addition to the front. The bay window has a middle window and two side windows that angle off at 45 degrees from the center window. Usually the side windows open and the center window is fixed. The bow window has several panes arranged in a sweeping, outward curve, with some of the windows operable.

These windows are hinged along the upper sash and tilt out to open. They can be opened in wet weather and still keep rain out.

Similar to an awning window except that it is hinged on the lower sash and tilts in. It, too, is useful for providing ventilation while keeping rain out.

Like a venetian blind, the individual glass blades move simultaneously when a jalousie window is cranked open or closed. These windows are comprised of a series of glass strips that overlap when closed. Because rain will fall off them when partially open and still allow air to circulate, they are popular in tropical climates.

Fixed windows may be of almost any design, including curved, triangular, round, octagonal, or hexagonal. Such windows can be installed wherever desired, between studs in a wall, in an attic, or above a door.