12 Window Types to Consider for Your Denver, Colorado Home
Whether you are renovating your home or replacing old, damaged windows, this is your chance to get options that can improve aesthetics and add more light. Window replacement Denver can be challenging if you don't know the type you should go for. Use our guide to make an informed decision.
Top Types of Windows That May Be Perfect For Any Colorado Home
The following are some of the most common types of windows you can find in Colorado during your search:
1. Horizontal Sliding Windows in Denver
Sliding windows are popular with Denver area homeowners who want more light in their living space since these can be installed easily in wide openings. These can be as large as 96 inches wide and provide more ventilation than other types.
Horizontal sliding windows are also low-maintenance since they don't have a lot of mechanical parts that can fail with time. It is also why you can get affordable rates for these types of windows.
2. Single and Double-Hung Windows in Denver
Single and double-hung windows have maneuverable slashes that can be moved to allow air through for ventilation. These are a great choice if you want an unobstructed view since both sashes meet below eye level.
These windows are popular with homeowners because they are easy to clean. Both sashes can be tilted inside so you can clean both sides of the glass. Plus, you can choose to vent from the top or bottom as per your needs.
For example, if you install it in the bathroom, you can open the top portion to let steam out and leave the bottom closed for privacy.
3. Jalousie Windows in Denver
Jalousie windows feature split slats that can be opened or closed with a crank. The design is reminiscent of Venetian blinds and is making a comeback from the 1940s and '50s when air conditioning was first introduced.
What's excellent about Jalousie windows is that you won't have to replace the whole window if it gets damaged. Just replace the broken slats, and it will be good as new. These offer excellent ventilation and are great additions to enclosed porches. But make sure they are reinforced as they are breakable and can leak air.
4. Transom Windows in Denver
Transom windows are accent windows that have been popular with homeowners since the 14th century. These are installed over entryways and doors to let more natural light in and to improve aesthetics.
Most of these windows are fixed and don't have hinges, so they look like awnings. You can opt for clear or fancy glass for this option. These types of windows can be as tall as 36 inches and 15 to 96 inches wide.
5. Glass Block Windows in Denver
These windows feature large, thick glass and are usually installed in basements since they are robust and weatherproof. However, these only have small ventilation panels and cannot be opened.
Glass block windows were quite popular during the 1980s and are popular with modern homeowners. Today, homeowners install them in bathrooms and as decorative features in shower stalls and partition walls. These also come in a range of sizes and designs.
6. Casement Windows in Denver
These windows are designed to open like a door and are considered as efficient as picture windows. Also known as awning windows, they feature a locking mechanism that pulls in the sash against the frame, forming a seal that keeps the elements out.
The single-sash ensures an unobstructed view of the outdoors and also sufficient ventilation. When you open a casement window, you ventilate the whole room, unlike slider windows which only ventilate half.
7. Egress Windows in Denver
Egress windows were designed to meet fire safety standards set by the International Residential Code. These are large enough to accommodate emergency exits since they open 20 to 24 inches wide and have a net clear opening of 5.7 square feet.
Egress windows in basements should have a cover and window well. The latter is U-shaped and covers the window from the outside, allowing rescue services access in case of a fire. A removable cover also prevents children and trash from falling in.
You can also make other kinds of windows into egress ones by ensuring they meet safety codes. Most people convert sliding, single/double-hung, and casement windows.
8. Picture Windows in Denver
As the name shows, picture windows offer an unobstructed and expansive view. These don't require horizontal or vertical framing, which can otherwise break your line of sight and which are common in hung and single/double windows.
While these don't open, they are the most affordable options since picture windows don't have mechanical parts or frames. Plus, the cost will reduce further since you won't have any parts to replace to keep the window functional.
What is also great about picture windows is that they provide architectural accents. These are produced in several shapes and are considered the most energy-efficient options.
9. Bay Windows in Denver
Bay windows are groups of small windows that are merged and designed to protrude from a house creating a bay or shelf inside that you can use as a reading nook. The windows meet at an angle. If you are remodeling your home and wish to install these windows in a location with an exterior wall, it will be pricier than if you swap windows in an existing arrangement.
In a standard arrangement, the window in the center is fixed, and the two flanking ones are either casement or single/double-hung windows. Bay windows are aesthetically pleasing and can also add square footage.
1. Skylights in Denver
Skylights are rooftop windows designed to let natural light in and provide sky views, thus the name. These are fixed but can be opened and, if installed strategically, add value to your home by making it look bigger.
However, skylights can cause leaks, especially if you live in an area that gets frequent hail storms. If it gets damaged, water can ruin your walls and roof. Choose skylights from the best suppliers to ensure this doesn't happen.
2. Storm Windows in Denver
Storm windows can be installed inside or outside your home and over your existing windows. These are strong enough to withstand strong windows, prevent leaks, and increase the overall energy efficiency of your home. Most homeowners install them on single-pane windows. Choose from a range of styles as per your needs.
The only downside to storm windows is that they are challenging to clean. But they are ideal solutions for homeowners who don't want to replace their windows or wish to reinforce them. Storm windows are available in all standard window sizes, so you can easily find what you need.
3. Clerestory Windows in Denver
These are rows of windows installed high up on walls or near the roof line. Clerestory windows were quite popular in churches and trains before they were offered to homeowners. These small square or rectangular windows illuminate a space but cannot be opened.
You can get hopper or awning styles if you want ventilation. You can also get custom sizes ranging from a foot wide to 20 feet.
What You Should Look for In High Altitude Windows
After choosing a window replacement Denver, don't forget to consider other features that will pact its functionality and energy efficiency at high altitudes:
1. Low E-Glass
Low E-Glass or low-emission glass blocks more ultraviolet and infrared rays from entering your home without reducing natural light clarity. This prevents energy loss during the winter and keeps heat out during the hot summer months. Pick this glass for your windows to make your home energy efficient and save money.
2. Tempered glass
More robust than annealed glass, tempered glass doesn't break easily, so if you have children, this is the best glass for your windows. The glass is strengthened during the manufacturing process when it is heated or cooled. Even with sufficient blunt force, the glass spiders and doesn't break. So unless someone takes a battering ram to it, tempered glass won't shatter.
3. Float Glass
Float glass is made from molten metal and can be found in small windows. The molten glass is applied to a liquid tin bath; since it is lighter, the glass floats to the top and spreads out, forming an even layer. The result is glass that is smooth and doesn't have any air pockets or streaks.
Larger varieties are made with strengthened glass. Whichever one you get, windows fitted with float glass offer a clear and unobstructed view.
4. Coated Glass
As is apparent from the name, coated glass windows have a special coating designed to block harmful UV rays, thus reducing radiant heat, which can otherwise increase your energy bill. These also protect your furniture from long-term sun damage and are popular during the holiday season because of their attractive aesthetic.
5. Laminated Glass
Laminated glass windows are made from two or more sheets of glass connected with a plastic coating in the middle. These don't shatter easily, and the space between them insulates your home from noise and heat. While these are a tad pricier than regular window glass, the benefits they offer are worth the expense for anyone who lives in a harsh environment.
6. Obscured Glass
Obscured glass is patterned, so it isn't easy to see through, making it ideal for anyone who wants more privacy. These are usually installed in bathroom windows so you can have a relaxing bath and enjoy the view at the same time. But your shadow may be visible. If you are uncomfortable with that, go for tinted glass.
7. Tinted Glass
Tinted glass is an upgraded version of obscured glass, which is colored to reduce UV rays from penetrating.
8. Frame Materials
The material of the frame you choose for your windows will make a difference. You can choose from vinyl, wood, or aluminum, each of which offers unique benefits in energy efficiency, price, and aesthetics.
A wood frame, for instance, blocks heat and cold better than the other materials, but it can rot and attract mold, which is imminent if you live in a wet climate. But it can also last for years, provided the wood is of good quality and maintained.
While vinyl frames are cheaper and more energy efficient in comparison, they lack the unique beauty that wood offers. But you can circumvent that by looking through the vast color choices vinyl frames are available in. Similarly, aluminum frames can withstand strong winds, but they aren't as insulating as vinyl.
Factor in your climate, home, and budget to make an informed decision. If you are overwhelmed, get in touch with professionals who can give you options you will like.
Choose From a Range Of Quality Windows from Clearly Windows & Doors
If you are searching for custom windows Denver and are overwhelmed with the sheer number of options, we can help you make an informed decision. At Clearly Windows & Doors, we have an impressive inventory of high-quality windows, glass, frames, and other features that can make renovations and window replacements easier and cost-efficient.
We don't want you to choose between quality and value. We offer the best prices in our industry because we eliminate unnecessary elements that can otherwise jack up costs. Rather than maintaining an expensive showroom, we keep things simple so our customers can get the best products for their homes at prices they can afford.
Besides windows, we also offer a range of exterior doors that can meet your renovation needs. These include entry, patio, French rail, and French doors that can transform any space per your needs.
Get in touch with us by calling 970-744-9204 to set up a one-on-one appointment so we can meet your custom requirements. Rather than offering a flat rate, our quote will be based on your specific requirements. We will also remove the old windows and doors and replace them with the new ones you choose from our selection of many windows, so you don't need to do it by yourself.
