Replacing Windows? Six Ways to Rethink Their Sizes, Shapes, Types, and Beauty
By Susanne ClemenzRefacingCabinet.com Columnist
Improve Residential Windows When You Replace Them
Since you're biting the bullet by replacing windows in your home, take time to evaluate whether each existing window is the right size, shape, and type for your needs. Analyze each room's windows for the following:
- Size: Are the windows the right size for the room? If the room is too dark, hot, or cold, or if furniture placement is restricted, you may wish to enlarge or reduce the size or number of windows.
- Shape: Existing vertical windows may compromise privacy. Horizontally shaped, shoulder-high windows keep out prying eyes while letting in plenty of light. Or replacing a horizontal window with a tall, thin vertical window makes room for an extra kitchen cabinet, broom closet, or coat rack.
- Type: Having a certain type of window doesn't preclude replacing windows with a different type. Examples: Casement or awning windows which are hinged at the side or top allow a more expansive view than double-hung windows. Your single dining room window can be replaced with a same-height bow window, and you gain a little side table. If that big view window in your living room hampers ventilation, replace the lower part with awning or slider windows. A garden window that bumps out like a mini-greenhouse allows you to grow herbs above the kitchen sink or place candles and bath salts next to your bathtub deck.
- Specialty windows: Add a half-circle window over your front entry door and living room window. Take advantage of a cathedral ceiling by installing a triangular window under it to open up the view. Put a circular, hexagonal, or arched window above your bed or at the end of a hall. Bays, bows, and box shapes are other options for replacing windows or adding new ones.
- Restoring historical accuracy: If a previous owner "modernized" windows decades ago, restore historical authenticity with windows divided by muntins (wood strips.) Or replace with wood-clad windows with weatherproof vinyl-cladding outside, and their natural wood frame exposed inside.
- Window panes: Add beauty, privacy, and interest with window panes of textured, stained, or colored glass. Replace one big view window with a large central clear glass pane flanked on each side or in the corners with a mosaic of smaller panes of varying colors or textures.
A little imagination can greatly improve your residential windows' beauty and function. Replacing windows with even one or two custom treatments enhances the quality appearance of the entire home. Start your list today.
About The Author
Suzanne Clemenz designed her passive solar home and remodeled two others. She worked with architects and contractors on floorplans, electrical, painting, windows, flooring installations, flood prevention walls and stonework, major drainage issues, an i
