The most popular window types and how to choose the right one

The type of window you choose affects more than your view. Window styles have pros and cons in areas such as energy efficiency, cost, ventilation, natural light and what rooms they suit best.

Consider what factors are most important to you as you learn about the many types of windows available in this in-depth guide.

Double-hung windows

Best for: Bedrooms, top floors, bathrooms

Average cost: $230 to $870

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

Double-hung windows are a staple for many homes and provide fresh air flow to any room. They slide up and down and are one of the most common types of windows for American homes. These windows are easy to clean, even on the second floor of a home. Many double-hung windows tilt inward, making cleaning them from the inside easy, so you don’t need to worry about climbing tall ladders to clean your windows from the outside.

Pros

Cons

Single-hung windows

Best rooms: Basements, rooms where you can’t reach the top sash

Average cost: $140 to $930

Recommended installers:, Champion Windows, Window World, Marvin Windows

Single-hung windows have an operable lower sash and a fixed upper window, so they open vertically from the bottom, and you can only open the bottom half of the window. These traditional windows complement most home aesthetics, including Victorian, Colonial and modern styles. They provide greater security than double-hung windows because they open only from the bottom, and many latch automatically when closed. Providers recommend single-hung windows as an energy-efficient alternative to double-hung windows because these windows have fewer moving parts, creating less risk for air leaks.

Pros

Cons

Awning windows

Best rooms: Bathrooms, living rooms, entry foyer

Average cost: $400 to $1,050

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

As their name suggests, awning windows create an awning-like effect when open, protecting you from rainfall even if your window is open. Awning windows have hinges at the top and open outward from the bottom. This style is ideal for rooms that need airflow but require a degree of privacy. Most awning windows sit higher on walls, such as above a doorway in a foyer, to maintain privacy while allowing fresh air in.

Pros

Cons

Bay windows

Best rooms: Living room, kitchen, bedroom, dining room, stair landing

Average cost: $1,200 to $5,950

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

Bay windows consist of three or more small windows fashioned together to create an angled corner. This design creates a nook, with windows that extend beyond a home’s exterior wall to allow plenty of light into your home. The window creates a cozy space for reading, eating or watching your kids in the garden. It makes an instant statement in any room, but is one of the most expensive types of windows to install.

Pros

Cons

Casement windows

Best rooms: Living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, dining room, home office

Average cost: $360 to $1,340

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

Casement windows open with a handle crank and open outward or inward, like a door. As one of the most versatile and popular window styles, casement windows perform well in almost any room. They’re built with one unobstructed piece of glass and allow more natural light into your home than most styles, making them perfect for brightening up a dark room.

Pros

Cons

Picture windows

Best rooms: Living room, dining room

Average cost: $270 to $1,250

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

Picture windows, also known as fixed windows, provide an artful frame-like (and unobstructed) view of the outdoors, creating a beautiful focal point. Homeowners often combine picture windows with double-hung windows, casement windows and other styles that open to allow for natural ventilation. One drawback is that you can’t use picture windows as an emergency exit, so ensure each room has an alternative escape option in case of fire.

Pros

Cons

Skylight windows

Best rooms: Bedrooms, kitchens, entryways

Average cost: $610 to $2,210

Recommended installers: Marvin Windows

Skylights are windows on your roof. From there, they facilitate natural light to interior rooms, enhancing a home with added elegance. Many people also appreciate the added indoor sunlight, which can provide physical or psychological benefits in otherwise dark parts of the house. Thermal energy from the skylights can even warm your home.

Pros

Cons

Sliding windows

Best rooms: Home office, kitchen, sunroom, bedrooms, living rooms

Average cost: $240 to $1,390

Recommended installers: Andersen Windows, Champion Windows, Universal Windows

Sliding, or gliding, windows consist of two or three sections and slide from side to side like a small sliding glass door. One advantage of sliding windows is that they have few locking mechanisms and don’t need a crank, so they’re more durable than awning or casement windows.

Sliding windows are an excellent option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to add ventilation and sunshine to a room. These windows are more affordable than most windows and virtually maintenance-free.

Pros

Cons

Storm windows

Best rooms: Any room needing reinforcement or soundproofing

Average cost: $100 to $450

Recommended installers: Window World

Storm windows fit over existing windows to protect against rain, wind and air. They prevent inside air from escaping outside while increasing a room’s soundproofing. However, even though they’re more affordable than replacing a window, storm windows are considered outdated. For example, vinyl storm window frames may discolor and warp with sun exposure, decreasing your home’s value and curb appeal.

Pros

Cons

Specialty windows to consider

Windows can make excellent statement pieces in your home, so if you’re looking for a particularly unique window, you might consider one of the following:

For specialty windows, I recommend Andersen Windows, Champion Windows or Universal Windows.

How to choose the best window type

“Choosing your window type is a matter of several factors, including personal preference, the climate you live in, ease of cleaning and energy efficiency and how you need your window to function,” said Sam Brubaker, the vice president of marketing at Champion Windows. “[Also consider] privacy and budget.”

When selecting a type of window for your home, consider:

Best types of window by room

Signs it’s time to replace your windows

Windows “typically have a 20-year lifespan, so when they begin to go, it’s time to replace them,” said Richard Ala, the founder of Six Brothers Contractors. “If your traditional windows are looking tired and are drafty, it’d be wise to replace them with insulated glass units even simply for energy savings.”

Look for these signs that your windows need to be replaced:

Bottom line

Choosing the right window type for your home depends on your preferences, including your desired functionality and looks. We recommend windows with certifications like Energy Star to help you find energy-efficient windows that will save you money on your electric bill for many years.

FAQs