If you are wondering what a picture window is, then you have come to the right place. This article covers everything you need to know about this beautiful window style. When you have a beautiful view outside, do not let grids, grills, or bars block your sight. Instead, a picture window is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoor without any obstructions. Here is what you need to know about picture window sizes, styles, and how best to use them in your home.
The Innate Qualities of a Beautiful Picture Window
How is a picture window different from a normal window design? A picture window lives up to its name because they are large, stationary panes with a low-profile frame. Without bars coming in between, you can maximize your views. However, you cannot open, slide, or move the window.
Most picture windows are made with reinforced glazing bars. It gets its cool name because they give you a clear view of the big picture outside your home. The window acts as a giant picture frame that highlights the scenery outside the window.
Notably, picture windows are inoperable. They are only statement windows that give you perfect views. On top of that, they can also serve as a focal point to highlight the architectural design of your home. When viewed from the exterior, this stunning window gives your house charm and character. However, it offers no ventilation or airflow benefits.
But other than that, they allow a lot of natural light to come into your room. The fixed pane also assures that the area where you install the picture window is highly energy efficient. This is perfect for any room in your house where you want to frame the outdoors. It can also serve as a focal point for that room because it draws the eyes.
The Different Picture Window Designs
They can customize picture windows to suit your specification. They come in different designs and styles. You can also choose from various picture window sizes based on the specific requirements of your home.
You can opt to have your picture windows installed without grids and bars. But if you want a specialty grid pattern for whatever aesthetic reason, your window supplier can personalize it for you. You have the freedom of choice to play around with the design based on your home’s theme.
For example, you love a contemporary modern design, you can choose a giant picture window with only one large pane of glass and sleek metal framing. On the other hand, if you have an older, traditional type of home design, you can opt for smaller picture windows that combine to make a larger design. Another option is designing an opening with a picture window flanked by a casement or double-hung windows on both sides. The possibilities are endless!
Common Uses for a Picture Window
Though picture windows can come in any size, they are mostly large. They are specifically crafted this way to highlight the beautiful outdoor scenery. They come in various combinations and designs, and there are also tons of places to put the picture window. It will depend on your:
- Home
- Views
- Design
- Current windows
- Preferences
- Budget considerations
That said, there are common areas where people like to install the picture window. Look at them below:
1. Common family areas
In fact, a lot of people love them for living rooms, dining rooms, or even family rooms. This is because these are common areas where you may spend a lot of time with family and guests. As such, having panoramic views will certainly add to the nice ambiance when you get together.
2. Bedrooms
But certainly, there are no restrictions on where you can use them. In fact, some who live in stunning locations also use picture windows for the bedroom. There is nothing like waking up to beautiful scenery with the morning sun shining through.
3. Backdrop for stairs
It will also work well to have a picture window as the backdrop for the wall facing your stairs. Apart from providing ample light when you walk up and down, it provides a stunning visual display that makes a great impression on visitors.
4. Kitchen
Meanwhile, others install this in their kitchen. There are many lovely homes with a giant picture window from the kitchen sink. It enhances the view from the kitchen and gives you something to mull over as you wash dishes. Stunning views offer calm and serenity even if you do simple, mundane chores.
No matter what picture window design you choose, it is important to invest in highly energy-efficient windows. Though it may be slightly higher in price in terms of upfront costs, it will save you more money in the long run.
Besides, compared to other traditional building materials, windows are innately inefficient when it comes to thermal performance. Thus, as much as possible, it is best to prioritize energy-saving features in your windows so you can minimize your energy bills in the long run.
Picture windows are the best solution if you have a stunning exterior view. Even if you want to see more of your yard, take advantage of natural light, or boost the curbside appeal of your home, a nice big picture window is the right solution.
Different Picture Window Combinations and Configurations
Though picture windows can be by their lonesome, you will find them commonly used in combination with additional windows. When you configure them with other window types, you make an attractive design. When you want to enjoy expansive views and excellent natural lighting, but you do not want to sacrifice window functionality completely, a combination window setup will work best.
In this instance, you have a large unobstructed glass pane in the middle, combined with two or more windows on either side. Usually, the side windows are smaller in size, and they are also operable or movable to let fresh oxygen flow in and circulate around your house.
You can create this combination window design using different window styles. For example, a rectangle-shaped, large, fixed window can be nestled on both sides by casement or double-hung styles. It is a popular choice for many homes since it combines exceptional airflow, abundant natural light, and beautiful scenery.
Get to Know the Different Window Styles
Remember, windows come in a broad range of styles, and it is important to know what they are because they have varying purposes. From there, you can decide on what window style to install in your home. Being well-informed is the only way you can make a sound choice. Since windows cost a lot of money, you want to get the most value from your investment. So, you can choose the best combination window for your home, look at the different window styles below:
Double-hung
These double-hung windows possess a top and bottom sash. They can slide up and down the frame in a vertical motion. This style proffers excellent energy efficiency. Besides, the movement of the windows assure excellent ventilation. You can also easily lock the windows to assure your safety.
Slider
The slider-style relies on a track, which is why it is aptly named. There are usually two panels where you can slide one side of the window to open and close. It offers great ventilation when opened, but only on half the portion of the window. When you have the panes closed, you can enjoy the views but with some obstruction because the frames of the two panels meet in the middle.
Bay and Bow Windows
These are somewhat similar in a sense because they can extend your interior space. Both come with a combination of three or more panes that are out from the interior to the exterior. Thus, they can offer additional seating and storage space. With this angled type of window, you can also enjoy more views. However, note that the views will have grills running through them because it combines several frames.
Awning or Hopper
As the name implies, this creates some form of awning or protection from the rain. Awning windows have hinges at the top. They open outward from the bottom and create a slant. They allow great ventilation while ensuring rainwater does not come in even when the window is left open. These are often placed high on walls for privacy. You can also opt to combine this with a stationary picture window to enjoy nice scenery.
Casement
These are versatile windows that match well with giant picture windows. They have hinges at the sides and open outwards to maximize air circulation in your home. You can either open this window from the left or right, depending on your specifications.
Garden
This is another window style that lives up to its name as it extends outward to provide stunning views of your garden. Some compare it to a bay window but on a smaller scale. On top of that, this version is glass. Another term for this is the greenhouse window, as it extends to the yard to give your more natural light. Apart from having more glass, it offers shelving which you can use to put some mini-potted plants.
Picture
Again, this style serves as the focal point of your home. You can combine this with the other window styles above to maximize the flow of air. It also holds the power to spruce up your home’s architecture because it is a large statement piece that captures the eyes.
The Different Picture Window Sizes
Since you can use picture windows for different purposes, they also come in varying sizes. Look at the possible configurations below:
- When combining single or double-hung windows with a giant picture window, a good size range is 28 to 36 inches in width and 52 to 74 inches in height.
- Should you use casements or awnings with a picture window, the size range is 20 to 24 inches in width and 24 to 48 inches in height.
- Solo fixed frames may reach a maximum size of 9 feet and 4 inches width by 8 feet in height.
Noteworthy: You can customize picture windows to fit what you like. Speak with a reputable window company to get the right size configuration for your home project.
The Pros and Cons of Picture Windows
Like any item you purchase, picture windows will have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Knowing what these are can help you decide. Since windows cost a lot of money, there is no room for regrets later. Look at what you stand to gain or sacrifice when choosing picture windows:
Pros:
- They offer beautiful views that are unhindered because they do not have grids and bars.
- These windows offer a touch of peace and serenity since you see the great outdoors.
- Picture windows allow tons of natural light in, making any room look more positive, bright, and appealing.
- They amplify your home’s exterior and interior aesthetic appeal, especially combined with other window styles.
- Provides a boost to your home’s aesthetics and layout.
Cons:
- Picture windows are fixed, so they do not offer ventilation.
- Also, since they are inoperable, it would be hard to clean the window.
However, you can easily fix these minor issues by placing casement, double-hung, or even awning windows on both sides of the fixed picture window. With a combination of windows, you can enjoy the benefits of a picture window, add visual interest, provide airflow, and assure easy cleaning.
Picture Window Installation
If you are looking for a window that can enhance your home’s beauty, add natural light, and provide pretty nature views, picture windows are a great option. You can use these as replacement windows or have them installed in your new construction.
The key to your project’s success is finding the right window supplier like our team at North Shore Window Inc. We have an extensive catalog with picture windows and other styles. Our crew can also customize a combination window for you that offers superior elegance, longevity, and energy efficiency. Get in touch with our customer representative today so we can schedule your free consultation.
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