Shapes & Grills
Windows are such an important component to the function of a home. They server various purposes. These include natural lighting, ventilation, and sound to name a few. The type of glass used for windows are also an important aspect that individuals take into consideration. Many customers also take their time to investigate glass windows, in order to select which glass is most appropriate for their home. There are also other aspects of windows that customers need to understand, and that is the shapes and grills that are appropriate for rooms and other divisions of their home.
Below are window styles and combinations that can work for various architectural styles.
Don't Be A Square! Consider Shape, Picture, or Fixed Replacement Windows
Shape, Picture, or Fixed Replacement Windows
Specialty shape, picture or “fixed” replacement windows add dimension and detail to a window design by incorporating virtually any geometric shape you can imagine into your home design. Fixed windows generally don’t open or have any moving parts. This provides fixed replacement windows with outstanding insulation and weatherproofing while offering a clear view, bringing the Texas outdoors and natural light into your home.
What is a “Fixed” Window?
A fixed, picture or shape window is designed to frame or capture the scenery outdoors, pool, lake, or golf course. Fixed windows can come in any most shape and size, and are the most energy-efficient type of window available. However, due to their inoperable nature, they provide no ventilation.
Benefits of Fixed Windows
- Various Design Options – While planning your window replacement project, you will realize you have unlimited options when it comes to choosing fixed, picture or shape windows. Because they come in so many shapes and sizes, this part of the process truly allows your inner imagination to dream up.
- Economical – Fixed windows are actually much more affordable than you’d expect. Because they don’t actually offer any moving parts, they are significantly less expensive than their operable versions in the same dimensions.
- Insulation – Fixed windows are also optimal for individuals suffering from allergies and want to ensure that the outside stays out.
Low-Maintenance – Due to their inoperable nature, fixed windows are also incredibly easy to clean and maintain since they don’t collect much dust or gather many fingerprints from lack of opening/closing. - Uninterrupted Views – Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors from the comfort of your home with larger floor-to-ceiling fixed or picture windows or incorporate larger shape windows above other types of windows to add creativity and dimension into the design.
- Natural Light – If you love natural light shining through your windows, fixed windows offer an excellent solution to invite lots of natural light into the interior of your home.
- Solar Heat – In addition to allowing tons natural light into your home, fixed windows also allow solar radiation to heat your home naturally in the winter.
Types of Fixed Windows
Consider a picture, shaped or fixed windows and let your imagination dream up a design that fits your unique personality and desires. Below is a list of the most common shape windows available:
Round Windows – Round specialty windows offer a great way to let in a little extra light into smaller spaces such as bathrooms. You can also customize a round window with hinges allowing them to be opened.
Circle Top Half Round Windows – Just as the name implies, the circle top-Half round windows allow you to place a curved top or arch above any type of window. Circle top-half round windows are used to add definition and bring in more light, but are typically only for decoration purposes and cannot be opened. Sometimes they are called eyebrowed windows, which have less of a curve on top. Also, they can be made into a single hung with an arch top.
Oval Windows – If you’re looking for a round but not exactly circular window, consider an oval. Although an oval shape might seem difficult to work with, they are optimal for rooms with vaulted ceilings that could use some extra light.
Octagon Windows – Octagon windows offer a unique reflection of light and provide definition to areas of your home with corners. You can customize the window one step further and add dividers to give it even more detail.
Triangle or Trapezoid Windows – If a geometric shape is really what you’re looking for, triangle or even trapezoid windows can help create a unique illusion and dimension to your home. Consider placing two triangle windows side-by-side or creating a custom design with multiple trapezoid windows to bring in more light.
Custom Shaped Windows – If you can dream it, we can create it. Have an idea for replacement windows that is unique to your home? There are many great design tools and options available for you to test out a window, before making any commitments. Keep in mind that the cost of a completely custom window is on the higher end of the shaped window spectrum, but specialty windows will add considerable value to any home.
With so many choices when it comes to fixed window replacement, it’s wise to consult a window replacement professional during the early stages of your project. If you’re looking for experts in Houston Texas area to help you customize the fixed replacement windows you’ve always been dreaming of, contact Cambridge Doors & Windows for a free in-home consultation with one of our design professionals or visit our showroom.
Basic Window Styles
Awning
Windows that are hinged at the top that swing out for ventilation.
For: Bathrooms, or Combine with Large windows.
Single/Double Hung
A window with two sashes where one or both sashes slide vertically.
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, and Dens.
Casement
A window or windows hinged on one side that open as far as 90 degrees to the building using a crank.
For: Bathrooms, Bedrooms, Living Rooms, or Combine with Large windows.
Direct-Set
These are fixed windows. Since they have no moving parts, they can be tailored to meet just about any desired geometric shape.
For: Entryways, Living Rooms, or Combine with Large windows.
Circle Top
As the name describes, these windows typically have a flat bottom and a circular or arched top. These are typically used in combination with another window or door.
For: Entryways, Living Rooms, or Combine with doors or large windows.
Horizontal Slider
A window with two sashes where one or both sashes slide horizontally.
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, Dens, and Combinations
Half-Circle Single Hung
A window with two sashes where one or both sashes slide vertically with a circular top.
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, Dens, and Combinations
'Eyebrow' Single Hung
A window with two sashes where one or both sashes slide vertically with an arched top.
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, Dens, and Combinations
Half-Circle Fixed
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, Dens, and Combinations
'Eyebrow' Fixed
For: Bedrooms, Family Rooms, Kitchens, Dens, and Combinations
Examples of Combinations
Angled Bay
A single large, fixed center window with 2 windows at 30, 45, or 90 degrees to the building. Side windows are typically vertical sliders or casement.
Bow
Four or more windows configured to form a radius. Typically made of either vertical sliders or casement windows.
Picture Combination
A single large, fixed center window with 2 adjacent side windows. Side windows may be either horizontal or vertical sliders or casement.
2-Wide
Two vertical slider windows installed side-by-side. This is a basic building block for a "wall of windows".
3-Wide with transoms
Three vertical slider windows installed side-by-side with awnings or fixed transoms across the tops.
Three Wide with Awnings
Three fixed windows with awnings on the bottom
2-Wide with transom
Two casement windows installed side-by-side with an awning or fixed transom across the tops.
Cathedral
Two casement windows with a half cloverleaf top circle.