64WHAT’S YOUR TYPE?
FIXED
Fixed windows (also called picture
windows because they typically don’t
have mullions and frame a view like
it’s a photo) are set in place and can-
not be opened for ventilation. They
come in a countless array of shapes
and sizes that can be combined to fit
any configuration.
SINGLE AND DOUBLE HUNG
In window speak, you’ll see references
to “single” or “double” hung models a
lot. These terms refer to whether the
window has one or two sashes that move
up or down. They are typically more af-
fordable than their counterparts, but
they also can allow more air leakage and
can be prone to sticking. They should
be placed in easily accessible areas for
maintenance and operation.
CASEMENT
Casement windows include a hand
crank that opens and closes the window
from a side hinge. The opening can be
angled for optimal ventilation and easy
care. A quality casement window is usu-
ally more airtight than the single- or
double-hung variety, but avoid placing
them along a porch or deck where they
can obstruct a walkway when opened.
An offshoot of the casement win-
dow is the awning style. The difference
is that the hinge is at the top, rather
than the side. This type offers excel-
lent ventilation and customizable air
flow, but size options may be limited.
GLIDERS AND SLIDERS
Imagine a double- or single-hung win-
dow turned on its side. That, in a nut-
shell, is a glider (also called a slider) win-
dow. As the name suggests, the window
slides open horizontally, rather than
vertically. They’re easy to clean and pro-
vide good ventilation, but like the hung-
window variety, they can be prone to air
penetration when you don’t want it.BAY AND BOW
Bay and bow windows are a combina-
tion of three or more windows that
extend beyond the wall. The individu-
al windows can be fixed panes or op-
erational. They’re most often used for
framing picture-perfect views from a
great room or bedroom, and a bay win-
dow has the added advantage of pro-
viding space for a seat. However, due to
their size and the fact that they have a
surface area that protrudes beyond the
wall, they can be prone to heat loss. Be
sure to select windows with excellent
insulating properties.MATERIAL DIFFERENCES
VINYL
If you’re looking for an affordable, du-
rable material that won’t rot or fade in
color (they come in a rainbow of hues),
vinyl windows may be just the ticket. Vi-
nyl is a strong plastic that can be en-
ergy efficient and withstand harsh en-
vironments. However, in an all-natural
home like a timber home, synthetic
vinyl may stand out like a sore thumb.ALUMINUM
Also falling in the cost-effective category,
aluminum windows are not only strong,
they’re lightweight and corrosion-resis-
tant. The metal framing can be a nice
complement to timbers and stone, but
metal conducts heat more easily than
other materials, earning them a higher
U-value (see sidebar on p. 61) than oth-
er options, and that’s not a good thing.WOOD
When it comes to timber homes,
wood-clad windows are the most logi-
cal choice. Available in species ranging
from pine to mahogany, they also can
be one of the most expensive and re-
quire the highest share of maintenance
and/or replacement. If wood is for you,
choose a species that complements the
characteristics of your timbers.CLAD-WOOD
Wood windows clad with a layer of
strong metal on the exterior side pro-
vides an extra measure of protection
against the elements while allowing
the beauty of the wood to be exposed
on the interior. Bonus: No exterior
painting or staining required.
No matter what windows you ulti-
mately decide to buy, invest in the high-
est quality you can afford. Windows that
are triple-paned, gas-filled and have
a low-E coating will help insulate your
timber home, making it more comfort-
able and less expensive to heat and
cool. The upfront cost of quality win-
dows and proper installation will pay
dividends down the road.TIP
Even the best, most-expensive
window money can buy will
be worthless if it’s not mounted
and sealed by an experienced professional.64