All These Windows: A Comprehensive Look At Window Options – Part III: Picture, Sliding, Awning, And Specialty Windows

Picture Windows

Picture windows are ideal for showcasing a particular view. With maximum glass area available in a window, picture windows frame the view, creating perfect pictures of your favorite landscapes.

Picture windows do not open like other styles of windows, but can be turned into a combination window by pairing the large unobstructed pane in the middle with two operable window panels on the sides. With or without the smaller windows, picture windows are great for framing large spaces with a spectacular view. The choice of adding the operable windows at the sides allows you to frame your view and helps ventilate your room at the same time.

Sliding Windows

Also called gliding windows, sliding windows open from side to side, and work best for large, long horizontal openings. They feature the largest glass area of any operable window, and are excellent choices for lighting and ventilation in areas where people walk, congregate, and socialize.

Walkways, decks, patios, and sidewalks are perfect places to install sliding windows, especially if another style of window might interfere with outdoor passage through the area. Since a sliding window can be opened without intruding into the area, they are the ideal choice for such situations.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are similar to casement windows: they open outwards by operating a crank. Instead of opening sideways, however, they open upwards and outwards, much like an awning, thus the name. The window’s bottom folds out, and the top remains stationary when the window is opened.

Awning windows work best in areas that are hard to reach, where a more traditional style of window, such as a double hung window, would be difficult to operate. Places such as stairway landings and the areas above sinks and counter tops are good places for awning windows.

Specialty Windows

If none of the other styles quite fit what you’re looking for, you can choose to go with a custom window. There are dozens of different styles, shapes, sizes, and grille options that you can mix and match to come up with just the right window. Whether it’s an arch you want, or something more uncommon, like a circle or triangle, it is possible to have such a window designed and made just for you.