Do you need new windows in your home? Not sure where to start? You are not alone. When shopping for replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ it is important to get familiar with the basic options. Armed with knowledge then you can start designing the perfect replacement window project for your home. So to help you out here is a quick and informative guide to some of the most popular window styles:

1. Picture Windows

Picture windows are fixed, meaning they do not open and close. They come in a variety of sizes and almost any shape. These windows are useful for getting more daylight in a room and opening up a more expansive view. They can work well in almost any area of the home.

2. Single-Hung Windows

Single-hung windows are vertical windows with two sashes. One stays fixed while the other slides up and down inside the frame. These windows are good for ventilation and natural light. They work well alone, or in combination with other window styles. Homeowners often install these windows in common living spaces because they are easy to operate and do not take up any extra room to open and close.

3. Double-Hung Windows

These are much like single-hung windows, except both of the sashes move up and down inside the frame. These windows are ideal for ventilation because you can open both the top and bottom simultaneously. This forces warm, stale air out the top while drawing fresh air in through the bottom. Again, these windows can work in almost any area of the home, but homeowners often choose them for living spaces, kitchens, and bedrooms.

4. Horizontal Sliding Windows

These are some of the most traditional window styles. They are also a bit more affordable because there are not as many mechanical parts to worry about. On sliding windows, one sash moves back and forth across a fixed sash. They are good for light and ventilation and are often large enough to function as an egress window. For these reasons, homeowners often install sliding windows in bedrooms and other living spaces.

5. Casement Windows

Casement windows do not slide open, but rather swing open. These windows have hinges to one side and the window often swings outward with the use of a hand crank. These windows are ideal for ventilation, and can even catch breezes that blow along the side of the house. And because of the easy operation with the hand crank, homeowners can install casement windows in hard to reach places like above the kitchen sink or behind the sofa.

6. Awning Windows

Awning windows are similar to casement windows. While casements have hinges to the side, awning windows actually hinge at the top. They push out to open and the sash creates a little roof over the window opening. Again, these windows are great for ventilation because you can still open them on rainy days and not worry about water getting inside. That said, because these windows do a project outside to open, they are not the best to install along with patios, porches, and walkways.

7. Bay and Bow Windows

Speaking of projection windows, bay and bow windows are popular installations that add space and character to a home. These are actually a set of windows installed as a single unit. Bay windows feature three windows set on an angle and bow windows feature four or more windows set on a curve. These larger window installations are often reserved for formal sitting rooms, master bedrooms, and breakfast nooks.

For more information about finding the right replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ and the different window styles, do not hesitate to contact the experts at Freelite Inc.