Choosing The Perfect Window For Your Dream Home!

There is nothing more comforting, when you stare out of the window to find something bright; and it's even more relaxing when you sit near the window with a cup of coffee to enjoy a beautiful sunny day. Windows are the best ways to bring the outdoors in. These days they are aesthetically designed and are much more than just an opening to let the light and air in.

Windows also play a major role in adorning your interior decor. They add a placid aura to your already beautiful flat. But when you go for buying a new home, you will be offered several options of windows that differ in terms of material used, style, framing, energy efficiency and sound rating.

To help you select the perfect window for your dream home, here's a guide on different types of windows.

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Framing Material The three most common materials used for window framing are vinyl, wood and aluminium. Wood gives an aesthetic look to the windows but requires more maintenance than any other material. Hence, the builders are drifting towards the concept of 'engineered' wood', which is more durable. While Vinyl offers good thermal performance and is cost-effective, its look can also be customized to match the interior finish of the room. Lastly, Aluminium is the strongest of the three and is also a good thermal conductor. Some other materials used for window framing are fiberglass, engineered plastics, steel and thermoplastic alloys.

Window Glass Earlier there weren't many options for window glasses, but with the technological advancement, the choices have expanded. You can choose a double or triple pane glass to find the right insulation factor. Impact resistant glass is strong; a hard hit on it will give a crack but it won't shatter into pieces. Also, low emissivity glass has a thin layer of a material on the surface which makes it more heat resistant.

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Window Style

Sliding Windows- The sliding windows open by sliding the sash along the other one horizontally. These are best suited to maximize glassed area of the window to allow more light in the room. Vinyl is the most common framing material.

Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows- While sliding windows open horizontally, single/double hung windows slide vertically to open. Suited for traditionally styled homes, these windows can be expensive or affordable depending on the framing material. Vinyl framing is cheaper whereas exotic wood framing like mahogany would be costly.

Casement Windows- Swinging like a door, casement windows have a vertical partition between the two sashes. French casement, the most common type in India, does not have any partition between the sashes allowing a large opening. Casement windows give a contemporary look to the decor.

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Awning Windows- Awning windows open like a casement but not to the sides, rather upwards and are stopped with a crank. These windows match both contemporary and traditional homes but require much architectural attention.

Hopper Windows- Much like the awning windows, hopper windows open towards the top but the upper part tilts in. These are easy to clean as one can access both the inner and outer side of the sashes.

Energy efficiency Another important factor that you need to keep in mind is the energy-efficiency of the window. This factor depends upon the frames, glass and style. For example- A tightly constructed vinyl framing reduces air leakage whereas wood offers the best insulation. A double-paned window with some inert gas (like argon) between the panes gives better insulative advantage.

Like doors, windows should also be checked for Sound Transmission Class (STC). Soundproofing should be an important consideration, especially, if your house is near a busy road.

You should check a particular window type on the above mentioned parameters and choose the window that is best for you and matches your interior decor.

So, if your windows are not matching the décor or enhancing the facade of your dream home, it's time to change them. Comment below if you find it useful and keep coming back for more tips on interiors and decors.