Are Window Walls Practical and Safe?

Modern homeowners are all about openness. We want open floor plans with sight lines from room to room and large entertaining spaces. And when it comes to windows, we want to let as much sunlight in as possible. A popular trend for remodeling projects and new builds is the installation of window walls.

Window walls are just what they sound like: exterior walls of your home made predominantly of glass. The result is a flood of natural light; however, the unique feature doesn’t come without some challenges. Below, we’ll outline the pros and cons of window walls.

Pro: Beauty

Window walls come in a variety of styles that can include metal and can fully retract to open into an outdoor space. Whether you go for a more industrial look or opt for full glass, window walls will maximize your view. Depending on where you live, you can take in staggering cityscapes, ocean waves or tree canopies.

Con: Cleaning

If you “don’t do windows,” a window wall might not be for you. While many of the windows used in window walls come treated to reduce water spots, they’ll still need to be cleaned more than traditional windows. And you’ll likely need professional help, which will be an added cost.

Pro: Durability

Because window walls are popular for beachfront properties, builders have had to work to make them durable enough to stand up to hurricane-force winds. But that doesn’t mean they’re safe from human error. Take special caution when mowing the lawn — a kicked up rock could mean a big repair bill.

Con: Cost

Because of the construction, materials and expert installation required with window walls, the cost of installation is significantly higher than traditional replacement windows or double-hung windows.

Pro: Efficiency

Window walls take advantage of the advancements made in window construction. Today’s window walls are extremely energy efficient and cut down on the amount of harmful UV light let into your home, so your upholstery won’t fade.

Con: Privacy

Unless you want to put on a show for your neighbors, you’re going to have to figure out a way to cover your window wall when needed. There are many options — including high-tech blinds that can be operated by your smartphone — but all will come at an added cost.

 

Consider the pros and cons of window walls. While they’re a wonderful option, make sure they’re the right choice for your home.

 

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