How to Select Windows for Any Room in Your New England Home
Windows are one of the most important elements in your home. From letting in natural light and fresh air, to keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, finding the right windows can really impact the look and feel of your home.
With so many different types and styles of windows available, shopping for windows can be overwhelming. Luckily, Andersen Windows makes it easy to get started:
Determine what type of windows you want, based on the room and its location within your home
The first step to selecting windows is figuring out what type of window you want. Some common types include:
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows, like Anderson® 400 Series, have top and bottom sashes that move up and down independently, allowing for a range of ventilation options. Because the sashes do not open outward, double-hung windows are an excellent choice for rooms that face walkways, porches or decks, such as living and dining rooms.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows have only a lower operating sash that can be moved up for ventilation. Because the sashes do not open outward, single-hung windows, like Andersen® 100 Series Single-Hung windows are another excellent choice for rooms that face walkways, porches, or decks such as dining rooms and living rooms.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged on the side with the sash opening opposite the hinge. Made of wood protected by a vinyl exterior, the 400 Series Casement Window is Andersen’s best-selling casement window, which allows for full ventilation from top to bottom of the window opening. Plus, the extended sash can catch the breeze and direct it into the house for better directional airflow where needed.
Awning Windows
Awning windows, like Andersen® Awning Series, are hinged on the top, with a sash that opens outward from the bottom. While less convenient when facing a walkway, awning windows allow for ventilation even in light rain. They are often paired with large picture windows to add ventilation to the view in living areas and master suites.
Gliding Windows
If you’re looking for maximum airflow, Andersen® Gliding Windows are the way to go. Gliding windows have horizontal sashes, either on only one side or on both. This type of window allows full ventilation from top to bottom without needing to open outward—another excellent choice for space-saving, in rooms that face walkways, porches, or decks, like lower-level bedrooms, patios or sunroom enclosures.
Bay, Bow and Garden Windows
Combining three or more windows so that they angle out beyond the house wall, Andersen® Bay, Bow and Garden Windows are a dramatic way to add light to your space. They can be casement, double-hung or picture units depending on your needs. These panoramic view windows can lend themselves to applications in living and dining spaces, dens and other common living spaces.
Picture and Fixed Windows
Picture windows do not open, and while there is no ventilation, they’re more energy efficient and can come in larger sizes. Multiple Andersen® Picture & Fixed Windows are often used to create the best view, and ventilation can be added by combination with awning windows. Perfect for sprawling views, these windows can become a focal point in dining rooms, living rooms and master suites.
Specialty Windows
If traditional window styles don’t fit your home improvement plans, you might consider specialty windows. Andersen® specialty windows let you choose from a variety of uncommon shapes, including elegant arches, striking angles and compelling curves. The sky is the limit as you discover new ways to let natural light and fresh air into your home.
Find what design options work best with your home
Once you’ve determined what type of window is right for you, you’ll need to narrow down the details like color, grilles and hardware.
Color
When selecting window color, you’ll need to decide whether you want your windows to blend in or stand out. Your windows will likely have two different colors – one for the interior and one for the exterior. Andersen offers 11 standard colors on most window options. Built from either clad wood or composite, Andersen windows feature beautiful, long-lasting color.
Grilles
Typically considered a traditional feature, window grilles are a great way to add character to your home. Andersen offers six grille patterns: Colonial, Prairie, Diamond, Short Fractional, Tall Fractional, Specified Equal Light, as well as custom grilles, making it easy to match the unique style and flair of New England’s historic homes.
Interior grilles are available unfinished, prefinished white or stained in pine, oak, or maple. Andersen’s exterior and Finelight grilles, made of Fibrex composite material, will match your window perfectly.
Hardware
When selecting hardware for your windows, you’ll need to decide if you want the hardware to blend in with the window or match other hardware in the room. Common color combinations include white windows with silver hardware, wood windows with black hardware, and black on black. Some hardware, such as Andersen’s A-Series Double Hung Windows have special features, enabling the window to tilt inward for easy cleaning.
Select the right glass for our unique New England climate to maximize energy efficiency
Having energy efficient windows will let natural light in while keeping chilly drafts out – a crucial feature for surviving winters in the Northeast.
Glass Types
Low-emissivity (Low-E) Glass – The best option for most people because it reflects heat in the summer and helps keep heat inside in the winter.
SmartSun Glass – In addition to the benefits of Low-E glass, SmartSun glass also reduces 95% of UV rays to protect your home furnishings and decor.
PassiveSun Glass – Ideal for Northern climates, PassiveSun glass allows the warmth from the sun to help heat your house.
HeatLock Technology – This special coating can help stop heat from escaping your home, perfect for winters in the Northeast.
Andersen windows can either be dual- or triple-pane. While triple-pane windows (available in A series) are more energy efficient, a dual-pane window with a climate-specific glass meets the needs of most homeowners.
Stop by your local Kelly-Fradet Lumber to explore our selection of Andersen windows and speak to a design expert today!
Employee Access