Types Of Windows: Styles, Frames & Decor Ideas

Whether your home needs a revamp with modern style windows, or your current windows are letting in a nasty draught, there are many signs that your home may require window replacements. Your windows keep your home aesthetically pleasing while also providing you with insulation, which means that there are a few elements that you will need to consider when designing your windows with the Crown Windows Buckingham team. From the frame material and colour to the type of glass that is incorporated into the design, there are an abundance of ways you can personalise your windows and improve energy efficiency in the process. So, to make your decision slightly easier, we have pieced together everything you need to know about the different types of windows and customisable features.

Different Types Of Windows To Consider

A good quality window will last up to 20 years before it begins to deteriorate, and with the inclusion of double glazing and high-quality materials, you can further enhance its durability and longevity. This is one reason why it is incredibly important to consider all of the different types of windows, including the various materials, styles and additional features available.

When working with the team to design your windows in Buckingham, you have the opportunity to choose from a multitude of colour options, styles and high-quality materials, such as uPVC and aluminium, allowing you to create a window that lasts in terms of durability and aesthetics. After designing your windows, you will then be able to view your design on your home through our 3D planning technology to make sure that your design is exactly how you imagined.

So, what are the different options you can choose from, and how do you start to piece together your window design? Let’s take a closer at how you can bring your window vision to life:

• Window Glass Types
• Types Of Windows
• Types Of Window Frames
• Types Of Window Blinds
• Type Of Window Handles

Window Glass Types

You may be surprised to know that the style of glass you install into your window design is likely to have the most significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency. Many older properties will still have single glazed windows, which will provide little insulation. It is noticeable that windows have single glazing as you are likely to find that condensation forms easily on the glass panes. Condensation can further damage your windows and their frames, causing rust and even breaking seals.

It is now the law that homes are not to be made or installed with anything less than double glazed windows unless it is a historic property, and there is a good reason for this. Double glazing is one of the most popular options due to its incredible capabilities of obtaining the temperature of your home in the summer and winter, creating a warmer and cooler home. This is achievable through the multiple layers within double glazing; the two glass panes and the layer of argon gas. The inside pane will be at room temperature, while the outer pane remains at the outside temperature, meaning cold air does not hit a warm window, minimising the risk of condensation forming.

While double glazing in Buckingham is the most popular choice of our clients, you can also choose to have triple glazing, which adds a further layer of protection and insulation to your home. Although this will increase the cost of your windows, it is well worth the investment. As well as the thermal capabilities, there are an abundance of other benefits to installing double or triple glazing, including the following:

• Reduces noise pollution
• Increases security
• Lowers energy bills
• Increases the value of your property
• Minimises condensation

Double glazed windows must be installed by FENSA approved contractors to ensure that your home is energy efficient, safe and compliant with Building Regulations. Our team are FENSA approved, LABC registered, and Team Guardian approved, giving you the reassurance and peace of mind that your design and installation are in experienced and capable hands. Please feel free to speak to our team about our range of windows and doors in Buckingham.

Types Of Windows

Discover more about the different types of window styles you can choose from:

Bay windows

When it comes to types of bay windows and thinking about a design that suits your home and aesthetic, there are multiple styles and intricate details that you can incorporate. Bay windows have been around for over 500 years, and are often found on older properties, used to bring as much natural light into the home as possible. Bay windows are a great way to add style and a beautiful statement feature to your home. While there are many different ways you can alter the design to match your property and personal style, there are four main types of bay windows to consider:

• Canted – one of the most used styles of bay windows is the canted design. This design is created through three windows, two of which are placed slightly horizontally on the side of the front-facing pane.
• Box – a box bay window is fairly self-explanatory and represents a box-like design, with the side panes creating a sharp box feature.
• Oriel – an oriel window usually presents a curved design but can also incorporate a box or canted style. This type of window refers to those on upper floors or bay windows that do not touch the ground. These are one of the least common types of bay windows but can make a beautiful feature in your home.
• Circle – a circle bay window is where the panes of the window curve around and often use more than the traditional three panes.

When considering your bay window options, you will need to consider how the windows will be configured. Most bay windows will use a picture window surrounded by two additional windows to form the shape. However, you can choose to have further windows to create a feature piece and more intricate design. Most homeowners will choose a casement or double-hung window for their bay windows.

To find out more about bay windows, take a look at our previous article!

uPVC Windows

uPVC has become one of, if not the most popular, window frame materials to be used on domestic properties. The reason for this is that there are many benefits that come alongside uPVC, which will be discussed later in this article. One of the most beneficial advantages of uPVC is that they can be easily shaped to provide a host of window styles. From traditional to modern designs, you can choose from a host of windows when incorporating uPVC. Some of the types of uPVC windows include the following:

• Fixed Double Hung
• Casement
• Sliding Sash
• Single Hung
• Tilt & Turn

It is important to have efficient security on your windows, and with uPVC, you can incorporate high-quality, secure and durable interlocking systems. All of our uPVC windows come with multi-point locking systems, providing you with affordable and reliable security. As well as this, you can also choose to add touches of style to your uPVC windows, such as elegant chrome or even colour-matched handles. Speak to the team about how you can customise your uPVC windows!

Casement Windows

This style is one of the most popular, along with sliding sash and tilt and turn, and offers a contemporary design with the choice of thick or thin frames to make an elegant or bold statement. The window will be attached to the frame by one or more hinges, opening outwards from either the bottom, side or top of the frame. There are many benefits to having casement windows, such as their ability to suit most property types, provide clear views and maximise ventilation.

When choosing your windows, you can pick three main types of casement windows: top, side, or bottom hung configurations. Most homes will feature a side or top-hung window, allowing you to fully open the window from the bottom or side of the frame. Bottom-hung windows that will enable you to open the window from the top are usually used for bathrooms and ensuites, increasing ventilation and maintaining privacy. When choosing your casement windows, the team are more than happy to take you through the multiple design options, customisable features and what type of casement window your home will benefit from.

Types Of Window Frames

There are multiple aspects of the frame that you will need to consider when designing your product, including the materials and colour of the frame. So, let’s take a closer look at the types of window frames you can incorporate into your design.

Material

Here at Crown Windows Buckingham, we use two high-quality materials for our windows; aluminium and uPVC. There is a very good reason for this, as they both provide you with the opportunity to enhance aesthetics while maintaining a reliable, secure, insulated and durable home. These materials offer a long-lasting solution, providing years of protection and lowered energy bills. Both aluminium and uPVC come alongside the same benefits, which include:

• Fully customisable with colours
• Secure
• Improves insulation
• Requires low maintenance
• Extremely durable
• Weather resistant
• Fire retardant

Aluminium tends to be used for contemporary homes where thin frames are required to provide a stunningly elegant and sophisticated piece. uPVC, on the other hand, is used for thicker frames and provides a multitude of colour options.

Colour

When it comes to the aesthetics of your home, you are not short of ideas and combinations, as you will have the option of an array of colours. From bright reds and light pastel greens to dark greys and black, you can incorporate windows that match the colour of your existing frames or choose to go bold with a selection of eye-catching colours. As the windows can be a different colour on the external frame to the internal frame, it allows you to incorporate a colour that matches the exterior aesthetic of your property while maintaining a personal touch inside the home.

When working with the team on your windows, doors or conservatory in Buckingham, you will be provided with expert advice on the best colours to suit your home. If you are unsure what colours to go for, then we highly recommend contacting the team to arrange for a consultation and free quote.

Types Of Window Blinds

There are a vast amount of different blinds that can work for your house; their functionality and strengths range from style to style, allowing you to tailor your needs to a certain one!

Wooden Blinds

Also known as Venetian blinds, these blinds are a very popular and traditional choice. Their functionality and durability make them a top choice as they stand the test of time in terms of style and reliability.

The timeless elegance of wooden blinds makes them a suitable choice for any style of home and room. Due to their flexibility and versatility, they allow their owners to choose to let in more or less sunlight and control the amount of privacy, so you can fit these to any time of day and mood you’re in.

Roller Blinds:

As these are one of the most popular in the Uk, you probably would have heard of this type. For a good reason, too, because this uncomplicated yet stylish type is great paired with whatever style you wish; they act as a blank canvas for your inner decorator to show your true colours.

Many types of roller blinds are available, ranging from blackout to thermal to moisture-proof, allowing you to tailor what you need most out of your blinds!

Vertical Blinds

This classic choice works great for windows and patio doors because of its length and versatility. You can change how much light you allow in or switch to a complete blackout if you require the opposite. These types of blinds work well in ensuring you feel completely private because of their features and length!

Type Of Window Handles

If you’re planning to invest in new windows, you may want to keep in mind the type of handles you buy. These are staples that can match your style and desired budget; the most common in the UK are:

• Espag: This style is one of the most common and popular found in UK homes, so you may be familiar with them. They consist of a simple layout: a shaft connected to the opening with its locking arrangement at the back of the handle. They can be found in a variety of appearances and vary in length, so you can tailor which one you choose to what you need!
• Tilt & Turn: These tilt-and-turn handles allow for easier access to cleaning both sides of the window, making them ideal for windows on higher floors or apartments. They are similar to espag but can be turned 180 degrees. These can also be found in numerous materials, sizes and brands so you can find one most ideal to your needs and wants; however, keep in mind that this will change the cost of each one you see.
• Venetian: This traditional handle is fixed to the window by just two bolts, and they are also low projected, meaning that they won’t poke through any blinds!
• Cockspur: This style is fixed with 3 or 4 screws and differs from a Venetian handle as it sticks out. Cockspur handles are most commonly found on older properties and can be found in both right and left-hand configurations, making them versatile and tailored to your needs.

Start Designing Your Stunning Windows

Now that you are fully loaded with a host of helpful information and advice, it is time to start piecing together a window design. Start by thinking about the style of the window, whether you wish to use the same style with modern materials, or transform your home with new and improved designs. After finding the perfect style, start to think about the material and the glazing, ensuring that your home is equipped with security, insulation and longevity. Lastly, start thinking about the colour to bring the design together and whether you wish to have the same or different colour inside and outside the house.

For professional help and advice, please contact our team to find out more and speak with our experienced team to start bringing a new lease of life to your home. You can also find some information about the window replacement process on The Spruce.