The 7 Most Common Window Types for a Michigan Home

Know Your Options Before Investing in Window Replacement

The windows of your home can take a real beating from Michigan’s strong winds, rainstorms, blizzards, and humid weather. Age and use wear windows down, making window replacement necessary eventually. And with so many architectural home styles in the Detroit and Ann Arbor areas — Tudor, Victorian, Greek Revival, Queen Ann, Craftsman, Ranch, Cape Cod and others — it is natural to wonder what type of window replacement makes the most sense.

The good news is, today’s windows are available in many types that can all work for your home, depending on your preferences. To get you started on dreaming of the look and features you want for your house, check out these 7 common window types that are popular in Michigan.

1. Double-Hung Windows

One of the main reasons homeowners invest in window replacement is to make care and access easier. Single-hung windows open only from the bottom, while the top pane remains stationary. Double-hung windows open at both the top and bottom. This promotes better ventilation, bringing cooler air in and hotter air out during summer months. They’re easy to clean from inside the house, and are classic in appearance.

• Where they’re great —anywhere you want better air flow, second floors where ease of cleaning is important
• Where to avoid them — large walls where a picture or bay window may serve you better

2. Casement Windows

Casement style windows use a crank to open outward from side hinges that can be placed on either the right or the left, depending on what works best in the space where they’re installed. They often feature sizable glass panes, inviting in lots of natural lighting. They create great air flow, while also sealing nicely when closed and locked, so they are quite efficient.

• Where they’re great — in spaces where you want great ventilation and ample light, such as the kitchen or basement
• Where to avoid them — near foot traffic areas where they can be in the way

3. Picture Windows

With large glass panes offering great views of the landscape beyond your home, picture windows often take up a major part of a wall. The tradeoff for the amazing lighting and sights provided by picture windows is that they don’t open, so you won’t get fresh air through them. And even with energy-efficient designs, they may still lose or gain more heat than an insulated wall would.

• Where they’re great — in spots where a great view is possible, where you want dramatic natural lighting inside, or at the top of a two-story foyer
• Where to avoid them — in homes where energy efficiency is the main goal, or areas where you want the option to enjoy fresh air through windows that open

4. Awning Windows

With hinges at the top, the awning window uses a crank to open up and outward from the top of the window sash. They’re often installed at the top, bottom or sides of stationary picture windows, giving homeowners the ability to bring in fresh air in those areas of the home. They can also be installed above doors to provide an attractive look or fresh air safely.

• Where they’re great — near large windows, stationary windows, and doors
• Where to avoid them — near paths and foot traffic areas where they can be in the way when opened

5. Slider Windows

As you can probably guess, slider windows slide open horizontally along a track. They have two or more panes, some of which open and some of which can be stationary if desired. They’re easy to operate and typically quite affordable.

• Where they’re great — places where wide windows and plenty of ventilation and sunlight are desired
• Where to avoid them — areas where you want a tighter, more energy-efficient seal than sliders offer

6. Stationary Windows

Windows that don’t open — fixed, or stationary windows — can be designed to fit just about any area of your home. They’re particularly useful in spots where natural lighting and design are valued, without the need for outside ventilation.

• Where they’re great — bathrooms, home libraries, next to the front entryway, anywhere a modern look is desired
• Where to avoid them — areas where you want ventilation, spaces where outdoor access for safety is needed (such as bedrooms and basements)

7. Bay or Bow Windows

These windows extend outward from the exterior of the home, creating more space inside and offering a lovely design that many find appealing. Bay windows have three window parts, angled outward, while bow windows have four or five parts that make a more rounded design. They have large sills that are handy for many uses, such as seating, plant arrangements, and more.

• Where they’re great — in bedrooms, kitchens, or front rooms where a window seat or great natural light is desired
• Where to avoid them — spots where you don’t want windows pushing outward past the exterior wall

Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home

As you think about the various window replacement types, consider your needs and ask yourself questions like these:

• Do you prefer a modern look or a classic one?
• Can you afford to sacrifice some energy efficiency for options like picture windows?
• What features would be most convenient for the space — easy cleaning, air flow, a great view, etc.?
• What is your working budget?
• What style of windows will look good for your home — modern, traditional, etc.?
• Do you want a show-stopping bay window or bow window for added charm?

Enjoy Your Home More than Ever with Lovely New Windows

With beautiful new windows, your home can achieve striking curb appeal that is easy to care for and long-lasting too. Our team provides a comprehensive proposal, explaining your options so you can be proud of your home exterior. Reach out to us for a free consultation.