Style Guide for Window Replacement Contractors

Windows not only allow us to view the outside world from the comfort of our homes, but they also are integral design choices that can have a dramatic impact on a home’s character and curb appeal. Plus, different windows offer different advantages and disadvantages, such as shape, light exposure, insulation, ease of use, ventilation, and of course, cost.

For these reasons, it is essential for any window replacement contractor to know what’s available that can best meet a client’s expectations and budgetary restrictions. In this guide, we’ll provide a refresher course as we look at the eight window styles that every window replacement contractor should know about.

#1: Single- and Double-Hung Windows

Single- and double-hung windows are among the most common types of windows installed on modern homes. Both of these windows work by sliding along a vertical track to open with the only difference being that single-hung windows only open from the bottom half while double-hung windows can open from both the bottom and the top.

These windows are popular because they don’t extend from the house when opened. This limits their working parts’ exposure to the elements and reduces their risk of damage caused by things like falling tree branches. These windows also provide good ventilation, offer easy access for cleaning, and tend to be easier to replace than many other window styles.

That said, since these types of windows work against gravity, over time they can start losing their ability to remain open if they are not properly maintained.

#2: Casement Windows

Casement windows are also known as crank windows because they use a crank to open and close them. When the crank is turned counter-clockwise, the casement window swings open from a hinge, much like a door. This allows for excellent airflow that can be easily controlled by how much the window is opened. These types of windows also tend to feature strong seals, which make them generally weathertight.

Most casement windows have screens that fit inside the windows, making them easy to remove and clean. But because of how they operate, casement windows are not ideal for securing window air conditioning units.

#3: Bay Windows

Bay windows are architecturally interesting and highly functional, making them a fantastic addition to most home styles. This type of window is actually a collection of three or more windows grouped together to extend from the house. The individual windows meet at angles and thus allow plenty of natural light into the home. On the inside, the space usually consists of one or more shelves, thus earning the windows their name.

While bay windows are visually stunning, they are expensive and installation is much more complex than with standard flush-mounted windows. As a result, installation needs to be performed by a skilled window contractor to reduce the risks of structural problems and leaking. Plus, location is important with these types of windows as they can block walkways and reduce exterior space.

#4: Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are flush-mounted windows that open and close by sliding on a track, just like a sliding glass door. When opened, one section slides over the other, thus allowing excellent airflow along with a very tight seal. Since this window doesn’t have any mechanical parts other than their locking mechanisms, they tend to be long-lasting and easy to maintain.

Because of their general appearance, sliding windows are most used on the basement levels of homes. As a result, if the home is in an area where curb appeal is highly important, then another type of window may be preferred.

#5: Picture Windows

Picture windows offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors and allow an abundance of natural light into the room. These windows do not open, but rather remain locked in place. This means that while they can provide a beautiful view, they do nothing to add ventilation to the home. Of course, since they lack any opening mechanisms, picture windows are very easy to maintain with a seal that is weathertight.

But while picture windows do have weathertight seals, they can be less energy-efficient than other type of windows simply because of the lack of solid, insulated walls. With a picture window, the type of window coverings used take on greater importance as heat from inside the home can escape during the winter months while in the summer, the direct sunlight pouring through the window can easily cause a room to overheat.

#6: Awning Windows

Awning windows get their name because they provide awning-like protection from the elements when they’re open. These windows open from the bottom and swing out via hinges at the top. The open window allows excellent airflow while preventing rain from getting inside.

Like casement windows, awning windows also operate by a crank mechanism. They are easy to operate and create a tight seal when closed and locked. The downside of awning windows is that like casement windows, they also protrude outward from the home where they can obstruct walkways and be easily damaged by falling limbs. For these reasons, these types of windows are most installed on second floors or higher up on the wall.

#7: Skylights

Skylights are large windows that get installed on the roof of a home. They provide optimum natural light, and they can be either fixed or vented. When opened, they work similar to casement and awning windows by relying on a crank and hinge system. Because skylights are installed in the roof, installation can be complex and expensive, and if not installed by a skilled window installer, they can be prone to leak. They can also be challenging for a homeowner to keep clean and are susceptible to damage from hail and being constantly exposed to other elements.

#8: Decorative Glass Windows

Decorative glass windows come in a wide range of styles, including stained glass and glass blocks. These types of windows are almost always decorative in design only. They are rarely functional. They are most used to provide a stunning design point of interest or to provide some sense of privacy, which is why they can often installed near front doors or in bathrooms.

While these windows do allow some degree of natural light into the space, they are not a good choice if your client wants an exterior view.

Match the Right Windows to the Right Leads and Close More Sales

Part of being a trusted window installer is helping your clients choose the right type of windows that will not only add value and beauty to their homes, but also provide them with long-lasting satisfaction. This can often be a tight rope to walk, but when you can match the right type of windows to the right leads, your sales results will soar.

Of course, the quality of the leads you’re working with also matters to your success. So, if you’re looking for a reliable source of high-quality window replacement leads, then contact RGR Marketing today. We have been providing window contractors and other home improvement specialists with better quality leads for over 20 years.

When you partner with RGR Marketing, you get exclusive access to window replacement leads that have been pre-scrubbed and verified for accuracy. This means that you won’t have to worry about wasting time and resources pursuing dead leads or being frustrated by things like duplicate leads, incorrect data, or incomplete contact information.

Contact RGR Marketing today and get the leads your window replacement business needs to thrive this year.