Replacement Picture Windows
There is nothing like a large expansive window to allow the outside in and to create a feeling of light and space. If the view is one of beauty, the effect is even better. Picture windows offer a frame to the outside world, bringing in the light and beauty from outside to be enjoyed indoors.
A picture window is basically a very large window with one continuous unobstructed expanse of glass. Some picture windows can have dividers, but most consist of a single oversized pane of glass to provide the best view of the outdoors. Picture windows do not open, slide or provide any source of ventilation. They are stationary windows, although they are sometimes combined with other types of windows, such as casement windows or sliding windows, to also allow for ventilation in the room and to add to the expansiveness of the glass. In effect, this combination of windows can create a wall of windows within a room.
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Picture Windows Offer A Room With a View
The main function of a picture window is to provide a view of the outdoors. There is no other functionality to a picture window, since they do not open or provide any type of ventilation. They function in essence like a picture frame (thus the name picture window), providing a frame for the beautiful picture that is seen through the window. Whether the window looks out at the beach, a forest, a city skyline, or just a beautiful front or backyard, the scene can be viewed from the inside, as if a picture was placed on the wall. They also provide a great deal of light into a room.
Picture Window Features
Picture windows are typically wider than they are taller, to provide a more expansive view of the outdoors. They can be customized in just about any size needed, however. They can also be ordered with any type of frame, such as wood, aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl window frames.
Since picture windows do not open and remain stationary, they do not have any moving parts. This is a benefit in that there are no parts to potentially wear out or break over time. It also helps with energy efficiency, although there are some other factors to consider related to energy efficiency when it comes to picture windows. Since the windows are fixed and do not open, no screens need to be placed on the window.
Picture windows come in just about any size or shape you need and can easily be customized. They are very often the focal point in a room so some attention should be given to the features of the window. They can have decorative accents added, such as artistic inserts or colored glass, interesting grids, or intricate moldings. They can be combined with other types of windows to make a statement and to make the window more functional by adding a source of ventilation. Picture windows can be combined to make an inviting bay or bow window that adds architectural interest to a room and provides a cozy retreat to admire the outdoors or curl up with a good book.
Energy Efficiency of Picture Windows
When it comes to selecting a picture window, energy efficiency should be a key consideration. Although the windows don’t open and therefore don’t have issues of air leakage through seals and movable parts, it is still very important to order a high quality window. Windows are basically holes in the wall and are a home’s greatest source of energy loss. Since picture windows are usually so large, they create a large hole and can potentially be a source of great energy loss. Therefore, it is important when selecting a picture window to choose one with high performance features.
Picture windows are a fairly expensive investment, but it is not worth cutting corners when it comes to selecting one for your home. What you may save by scrimping on energy efficient features will cost you more in the long run through decreased energy efficiency and is just not worth it. Some of the features to consider when purchasing a picture window include getting a window that is at least double paned, that has low u-values and has low-e coatings on the glass. There are other factors to consider, such as gas fill between the panes, warm edge spacers, and storm window placement (storm windows create an extra layer of air space and therefore greater insulation). In general, if you look for the EnergyStar® label on windows you are considering, you will get a good idea of which windows are most efficient, or ask a sales rep for their advice.
The options just mentioned primarily relate to the energy efficient qualities of the glass, but there are other factors to consider as well. The frame type of your window will affect its energy efficiency as well as other factors, such as maintenance issues, noise issues and strength. Most frames are available in either vinyl, wood, clad wood, aluminum or fiberglass. Vinyl frames are usually the most budget friendly, while wood is more expensive but requires upkeep and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Aluminum frames are very strong and are good for very large picture windows because a smaller frame can support the weight of the window. They’re also good noise insulators. Your frame type will be dictated by such factors as budget, energy efficiency, the size of the window and what the other windows in your home are made of.
Home Security & Picture Windows
An added benefit of installing a picture window in your home relates to home security. While some people may be concerned that picture windows are more apt to invite intruders into your home because there is so much glass, the reverse in fact is true. Picture windows are not easy to get into because they do not open. It is much easier for an intruder to pick a lock or break a sash on another type of window, and the window cannot be left open mistakenly, allowing an intruder to simply remove a screen to gain entry into a home. The only way through a picture window is to break it, and intruders don’t want the attention it would draw to break such a large window, or the possible injury to themselves. Many picture windows are constructed using tempered glass, which make them much harder to break, even if they tried. Some building codes require that picture windows contain tempered glass, and even for those that don’t, buying a picture with tempered glass is a good idea anyway because the are up to five times stronger than standard window glass. They are of course, more expensive, but the added safety is worth the added cost.
Decorative Accents & Pciture Windows
Since picture windows open your home up to the outdoors, chances are that you will want some type of window treatment to provide privacy when you need it. There are many types of window treatments you can use along with a picture window, but you should keep in mind that the main focus is on the window and the view should not be obstructed. You should select window treatments that are of the appropriate scale for the size of the window, since they will typically also be a focal point in the room. But, you should also select treatments that can be easily opened and pushed back to allow for the enjoyment of the view through the window. Since picture windows are so large, they may require customized treatments to meet the dimensions of the window, which will be an added expense. Window treatments for a window this large can truly make a huge design impact, so don’t skimp on the design or quality of the window treatments if you want to get the most enjoyment out of the space surrounding the window.
A Room With A View
Whether your home enjoys a view of a spectacular mountainside or the gentle rolling waves of the ocean, an expansive flower garden or a backyard filled with happy kids, there is nothing like a picture window to let those beautiful sights in. Picture windows are also a great option for brightening up your home by letting in enormous amounts of light.
While there are many benefits to installing a picture window in your home, there are also some factors to consider when planning for your window. For example, since the windows do not offer a source of ventilation, you may need to include other windows in the room to allow for that ventilation and air flow. In some cases you will want to do this for your own comfort, but it is sometimes a part of the building and fire codes that a room has an operable window that allows exit from the home. This is especially true of bedrooms. You can accomplish this if you do not have additional windows in the room by placing casement windows on either side of the picture window or an awning or hopper window above the window.
No matter what features and details you choose for your picture window, the addition of this type of home window can truly turn your home into a masterpiece and provide for extraordinary views and designs elements. The addition of light and outdoor views is a subtle way to add vibrance and beauty to your home.