Keep Style in Mind: Types of Double Glazed Windows to Choose From

Do you think that double-glazed windows mean bright white frames and boring traditional styles?

Think again!

Double-glazed window styles have never been so varied. From the traditional fixed to tilt and turn, there’s something to suit every home and everybody’s style. Plus, you get all the great energy efficiency benefits of double glazing to boot.

So let’s delve into the different types of double-glazed windows and what they have to offer in our comprehensive guide.

Fixed Windows

Let’s start with an option that’s all about light, not about air.

Fixed double-glazed windows are just that—fixed shut. You can’t open them, they’re purely there to let light—and of course, views—into the room.

They’re great if you’ve got large expanses of glass that effectively act as a wall, allowing you to drink in the scenery. Because they’re fixed, you get all the benefits of the thermal efficiency of double glazed windows.

They also have good acoustic insulation qualities, meaning they’re great if you’re near a busy road or another source or regular noise.

Tilt and Turn Windows

If you’re looking for ultimate versatility, then tilt and turn are a great type of uPVC windows.

They allow you to open them in two ways:

- Tilted inwards from the bottom hinge, allowing for plenty of ventilation

- Opening inwards along the side

These characteristics make them great not only for bringing light and ventilation into the room but also for cleaning. You can easily access both sides of the window. That eliminates the need for ladders on second story windows, making them a much safer option.

They’re also awesome for parents with young children. When you use the tilt setting, there’s no possibility they can climb through the opening and put themselves at risk of falling out of the window. This same feature also means they’re intruder proof too.

It’s all these great features that make them one of the most popular types of double glazed windows.

Awning Windows

An awning window is one of the more traditional double-glazed window styles.

They open to form an awning by having a hinge along the top edge, opening outwards. They allow for maximum ventilation and for you to enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding area.

They also make a great choice for skylights or less accessible windows as they can be fitted with motor chain drivers. This allows them to be opened and closed remotely.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are one of the best types of double-glazed windows for many families because of the way they open.

They are usually designed with hinges along one verticle edge of the window, allowing them to open outwards. This means that they do not encroach on the space in the room. Alternatively, if you have plants or other obstructions outside the window, they can be hung to open inwards.

They form an airlock seal when closed, which allows you to reap the maximum energy efficiency benefits from the double glazing.

Types of Casement Windows

A popular variant on a casement window is sometimes known as a French casement.

This consists of two sections that open at either end of the window, with a fixed section in the middle. The added advantage of this style of window is that it can be used as a fire exit in case of an emergency.

Styles of Casement Windows

They also come in a range of styles to suit different ages of property.

Period properties often look great decked out in Georgian style double glazed windows, which have a decorative effect that gives the appearance of many small panes of glass in a grid pattern. This is known as the Georgian Bar style.

In the past, uPVC frames could be bulky and eat into the view. Now slimline frames allow you to fully enjoy your surroundings with all the practicality that comes from the casement window style.

Double Hung Windows

The double-hung uPVC window is the latest incarnation of the sash window—but with bells on.

They open inwards, and can even be configured so that both levels of the window can open inwards at the same time. This is known as a double vortex system.

Sash windows have long been appreciated for their elegant style and graceful mechanism. With double-hung windows you get the great look of sash windows, but with much more flexibility.

Alternatively, if you prefer the traditional look, they can simply slide up and down like sash windows.

They make a great addition to period properties but shouldn’t be limited to them. They’re stylish, sophisticated and versatile.

Whereas old sash windows looked great but leaked like nobody’s business, double hung double glazed windows benefit from the great air-locking qualities of other styles.

Which Types of Double Glazed Windows Are Right For You?

This will depend on the style of your property, what you are trying to achieve, whether you have children and your budget.

Usually, casement windows are the most affordable option. They are the most popular of the uPVC window designs and allow you all the benefits of double glazing without breaking the budget.

However, if you have a family and are worried about children or pets accessing the windows, the tilt and turn can be a great option. For panoramic views, fixed and awning windows are winning options.

In Summary: Making Sense of the Types of Double Glazed Windows

There are so many great types of double-glazed windows available now, and whichever you choose, they’ll make a great addition to your property.

They all bring the same credentials of energy efficiency, strong insulating quality, and security that are a must in modern homes.

At Ecovue, we’ve got all of the above and more on offer. Why not drop into our showroom to have a look at these babies in person?

Alternatively, get in touch today and see what we can do for you!