Your in-depth guide to different window styles

There are many different window types to choose from when replacing the windows in your home, including different styles and materials. Deciding on the best choice often means focusing on your overall home improvement goals.

When completing a new home extension, you need windows and doors that mesh with the existing style of your home. On the other hand, you may simply want to find a functional window style that works within your budget.

This piece is designed to give you an overview of the various window styles that can be fitted for a quality window replacement, including their benefits and potential shortcomings.

Role of windows in a property

Windows serve many essential purposes for the property, both practical and architectural:

• Ventilation – Interior spaces need ventilation to bring in fresh air, which is made simple by opening windows. Opening multiple windows in a house is extremely effective at clearing moisture, smoke, and odours.
• Natural lighting – Appropriately sized and angled windows are the main way natural light can enter your home.
• Aesthetics – Although it might not seem like it, the style of windows you choose has a significant impact on your home aesthetics.
• Heat retention – Drafty windows are one of the top contributors to heat loss for homes through lack of insulation and proper sealing.
• Security – Windows and doors are typically the areas which allow break-ins, so it’s important to choose a window style that can be locked securely.

Types of windows and window frame styles

UPVC windows

Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a very popular material used for the construction of windows and doors, and for good reason. UPVC windows are highly effective at protecting a home’s heat retention capabilities. Thanks to our collaboration with Liniar, our uPVC windows feature patented bubble gasket technology for enhanced energy efficiency. On top of this, there are many design options for uPVC windows to allow homeowners to express themselves. This includes:

• A range of colour options.
• Combines with other window styles, such as uPVC casement windows and uPVC bay windows.
• Flexibility to tailor windows to specifications.
• Easy to maintain.

Orangery extension with UPVC tilting windows in Liverpool.

Aluminium windows

Our aluminium windows feature a sash window design with turn and tilt openers to create a stylish feel. These are a great option for adding curb appeal to a property. You can paint aluminium windows a variety of colours using powder coatings, which are also resistant to scratches, chips, and fading.

Heritage windows

If you have an older property where you want to preserve its historic features while upgrading its energy efficiency, heritage windows are a great option. By combining design and manufacturing expertise, purpose-built heritage windows can fit seamlessly into a home’s established style. The slim profile of heritage windows allows more natural light into the property and increases curb appeal.

French windows

If you’re looking for a large window style that offers an uninterrupted view of the outdoors, French windows could be perfect for you. The most noticeable feature of this style of windows is the lack of a central mullion. This provides a broad view of the outside from communal interior spaces, such as kitchen extensions, conservatories, and living rooms. The addition of French windows brings an elegant style to your home and a lighter feel even when it’s overcast.

Double glazed french door installation in Liverpool.

Double glazing windows

Doubled glazed windows, featuring a layer of argon gas sandwiched between two panes of glass, are the standard for insulating modern homes. Expertly fitted double glazing lasts 25 years on average. All windows supplied through us come with double glazing as standard, so it’s not an extra cost to upgrade your home while installing a new window style at the same time.

Edwardian double-hipped conservatory.

Casement windows

Casement windows are defined by a hinge along one side that allows it to swing open for complete ventilation.

Bay windows

Bay windows are a common feature of many house fronts, as they offer a spanning view of the surrounding area. The typical structure of a bay window consists of a large central window that protrudes from the outward wall, flanked on either side by smaller windows that are angled back slightly towards the house.

Sash windows

Often found in older or traditional properties, sash windows consist of two separate glass panes with a horizontal break. This allows the lower section of the window to be raised to open the window vertically. If your sliding sash windows can open at the top and bottom, this allows for excellent ventilation.

UPVC sash window installation in Liverpool.

Choosing your window style

Deciding on the window styles for your home isn’t straightforward, but it can have a massive impact on your level of enjoyment and comfort. Allerton Windows have a massive range of window styles to choose from, giving homeowners options for home improvements and window replacements. These are the things to consider when choosing the windows in your home:

• Materials – The material you choose for your window frames has implications for how they look and function. It’s best to think about the regular climate around your home and other environmental factors to decide on window materials that will produce a long lifespan.
• Look and feel – If you’re looking for a window replacement or new windows as part of a home extension, it’s important that any new windows complement the established style.
• Energy efficiency – Choosing windows that are effective insulators is a great way to save money on utility bills. One of the key areas to look at here is the window seals and material choices.
• Secure – Under UK building regulations, dwellings must be able to offer a reasonable level of protection, and this includes secure windows and doors. Look for evidence that any windows you’re considering have passed official security testing.

In addition to the types of windows discussed in this blog, we also offer a bespoke windows service. Using professional training and years of experience, our experts provide made-to-order home improvement solutions. Create your perfect window style by choosing from our range of colour, handle, and glazing options.

Professional window and door installations

Choosing a window style is a commitment that can have long-term implications for household energy use and your overall comfort. You want to pick a window style that reflects who you are and the kind of home you want to return to every day.

Allerton Windows are the go-to window fitters near me for anyone based across Merseyside and the North West. Whether you’re looking to reinvent your house’s look, complete a window replacement, or focus on the street-facing side of your property, our experts can help.

We love bringing our customers’ dream homes into reality, whether that’s stylish windows, a stunning front door, or a new house extension. Get in touch today to arrange your free quote.