Window styles have changed throughout the years, and there are a variety of options available to homeowners. Are you looking for old school charm with modern convenience? Or maybe it’s all about energy efficiency or keeping out the noise that interests you most…
Window designs come in many different shapes, sizes, colors as well as materials these days–vinyl is extremely popular but wood still holds its own against other varieties. When deciding what kind of window design works best for your home, you should keep things like budget (cost versus durability), style preferences, and functionality on top of mind.
While looking at new replacement windows for your home, choosing which style is best is often very difficult! There are so many beautiful styles on the market these days—but not all are a perfect match. Our skilled team here at The Screen Shop in Palo Alto, CA replacement windows wants to help you decide which you love best! So, let’s compare two of the most popular styles on the market today, shall we?
Sliding Window VS Double-Hung Window
Let’s start with the similarities. Both window styles have two sashes… Both… have glass. Ok, these two windows are pretty different—even though they complement a variety of the same home styles.
Double-hung windows: classic, sleek, and great for ventilation. Double-hung windows are known for having two movable sashes, both capable of sliding up and down. Many options have the automatic tilt-in sash feature, which allows for easy cleaning when needed.
When you’re looking to add a touch of charm and elegance, double-hung windows are one of the best options for your home. This type is characterized by two sashes that slide vertically up and down in tracks on each side or above another single window pane with which they share an impenetrable frame. That means these types can be opened from either inside or outside – depending on their location within your house!
Sliding windows: these are also called slider windows and glider/gliding windows. As mentioned, this style also has two sashes—but, they move side to side. Some models have one immobile sash, while others have both window panes that can move left and right.
Sliding windows are a great way to make your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. They have been used in many homes for years, but there is still some uncertainty about how they work or if the benefits outweigh their disadvantages.
In which home styles do Double-Hung and Sliding Windows belong?
Contemporary, traditional, beach, and modern architecture all look great with either of these window styles. If your home doesn’t quite fit into these styles or if you’re trying to deviate from them, here’s a further breakdown:
Cottage style home: double-hung windows are a great match for this style! They are homey and classic—just like the right cottage style home.
Craftsman or bungalow style homes: again, double-hung windows are perfect for quirky, cozy home styles, like craftsman or bungalows!
Colonial style home: another double-hung fit! Notice a theme? You see, styles that originate from a period before current homeowners were alive are usually perfect matches for double-hung windows.
New development/new home: slider windows are fresh and modern-looking, so these are a perfect style for your new build.
English cottage home: this style is a “wild card.” While I usually encourage homeowners to look into double-hung windows for cottage-style homes, I’m partial to the sliding window for this style home.
Mediterranean style home: we don’t often see this style, but when we do, we recommend pairing sliding windows with beautiful arched custom windows above. And, of course, a walk-out master bedroom patio.
Where is the best place to use each style?
Really, you can put them wherever you want and our professionals will be happy to make that happen for you. But, here’s a rough guideline:
Sliding windows: best used where you want a wider window opening than you want height. Typically, these go in rooms where an unobstructed view is most desired.
Double-hung windows: best for spaces where height is greater than the width (or is more important to you).
So, what do you think? Which seems best for your next project? Come visit us here at The Screen Shop and let’s get started!
The Screen Shop | 601 Hamline St.| San Jose, CA 95110 | 408.295.7384 | contactus@thescreenshop.com