If you’re replacing your windows, it’s time to decide on a window style. Each window style has a different look and function, and what works in the den may not suit the bedroom. Thankfully, there’s no reason you can’t use mismatched windows.
Understanding the different styles and their benefits can help you choose the right mix of windows for your home.
Should You Mix Window Styles?
Different window styles offer different advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at the window’s operation, materials, and aesthetics before making a decision.
Operation
Start by considering whether you want sliding or hinged windows. Hinged windows often operate with a crank and suit small spaces better than a sliding window. These windows open more widely, and casement and awning windows offer better ventilation.
Sliding windows can open vertically or horizontally. Either way, they’re compact and easy to operate. In addition, some vertical sliding windows, known as double-hung windows, have a tilt function for easy cleaning, making them a great choice for upstairs areas.
Material Options
Window frames can be made from vinyl, wood, aluminum, or fiberglass. You may think your frame choice comes down to aesthetics, but you should also consider durability, upkeep, and cost.
While wood frames give an authentic look to historic homes, they’re a costly option and require upkeep. Aluminum is affordable, but it’s not very energy-efficient and loses heat in Mid-Atlantic winters.
Fiberglass is durable, but the difficult manufacturing process adds to the cost. Vinyl frames can be painted to suit your house and are affordable and easy to maintain, making them the most popular choice. In addition, choosing the same window frame material for mismatched windows can help your house maintain a cohesive look.
Style and Shape
Although the most affordable window shape is rectangular, you can play around with shapes and styles to bring interest to your home. For example, arches are popular in historical homes, and portholes can be fun in a home by the sea.
There are also windows designed to bring style to a home rather than function. For example, bay or bow windows, often featured in living rooms, allow light to enter from multiple angles. Picture windows don’t open or provide ventilation but can frame a view perfectly.
If you have a unique window idea, take a look at having a custom window made. This ensures it fits the vision you have for your home while allowing light and air inside.
When Not To Use Mismatched Windows
Although the answer to “should you mix window styles?” is generally yes, there is one area where it’s best to stick to the same materials. If you’re replacing windows to make your home more energy-efficient, try to use the same type of glass throughout.
Energy-efficient glass can save you money and regulate the temperature in your home, but it works best if there is nowhere for the heat to escape. This means that leaving a single-paned window in the house can make the double-glazed windows less efficient. However, this type of glass can fit different windows, so you can still choose a style that suits your needs.
Whether you’re looking for mismatched windows or a uniform style, Thompson Creek’s window experts can help with the design process. We install quality replacement windows, so call us for a free consultation today.