If you’re planning a home remodeling project, you may be shopping around for replacement windows. Keep in mind that there are several window types that you’ll encounter, and it’s important to choose the right new house windows for your remodeling project. Keep reading to learn about these different types of windows, and learn which ones are best for your home.

Different Types of Windows

You’ll find that there are a few different ways of characterizing new house windows. One method is categorizing certain window types as either fixed or operable.

Fixed windows are new house windows that aren’t used for ventilation. These window types are mostly used for letting in light or showing off a great view. Fixed window types may have unusual shapes or sizes. This can sometimes make it difficult to find replacement windows.

Some popular fixed window types are:

• Large picture windows: These large, fixed windows may feature a beautiful view.
• Round-topped windows: These ornamental window types may be found on top of a door or larger window, and are formed by geometrical glass pieces arranged into a round shape.
• Seamless bent glass windows: These modern new house windows fit into a corner of a house, creating an unobstructed view.

Unlike fixed windows, operable windows provide ventilation in addition to letting in light. Types of windows in this category include windows that hinge inward or outward, or slide up, down or sideways. Some common operable types of windows are:

• Casement windows
• Double-hung windows
• Horizontal slider windows.

You may also find replacement windows that are often a combination of both fixed and operable types of windows:

• Bay windows consist of three windows. The center window projects from the wall and is flanked on either side by angled windows that act as anchors. These new house windows are usually casement or double-hung styles.
• Bow windows project out from a wall, similar to bay windows, but have a gentler curve, formed by more than three sections. The center windows are usually fixed, but the side windows may be operable casement types of window.

Choosing Replacement Windows

If you’re trying to maintain or spruce up an older house, wisely chosen new house windows can help improve the aesthetic appeal of a house, and provide environmental and economic benefits.

You can determine if you may need replacement windows by asking the following questions:

• Are energy bills high year round?
• Do carpet and furnishings look faded and worn?
• Is there a draft, even near a closed window?
• Is there damage near the window?
• Is outside noise loud even with a closed window?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may benefit from installing new types of window in your home. When properly installed, certain windows can:

• Enhance or restore aesthetic appeal to a house
• Lower energy bills by giving optimal insulation
• Provide sun protection for inside the house
• Reduce outdoor noise.