A double hung window is made up of two independent sashes: one at the bottom and the other at the top. These can slide up and down in separate channels.

A single-hung window is much like its double-hung cousin, except that the top sash is fixed while the bottom sash is free to move up and down.

One advantage of both varieties of hung windows is that the sashes can either be tilted or removed completely – this allows for easy cleaning.

The main disadvantage of these types of windows is that they may not provide as much insulation as other styles do. Specifically, the sliding operation of the sashes means that there could be small gaps around the whole window.

These windows are ideal for traditional houses, especially those with colonial and Victorian style architecture. These windows are typically located one by one and their vertical proportions match well with taller structures

Much like a double-hung window, , glider windows have a sash; in this case, it slides horizontally rather than vertically. These windows cannot tilt inward for cleaning; however, the sash is usually easily removable, so you still won’t need to access it from outside.

Being that these are basically a horizontal version of the double-hung window, they have the same advantages and disadvantages.

Slider windows are well suited to ranch or bungalow style architecture. Houses that have proportions that are more horizontal benefit from the generally wider dimensions of sliding windows.

A casement window has a single sash that is attached to the frame with hinges. The sash can then swing outward like a door does.

Most often, the swinging operation is facilitated through a cranking mechanism. As such, casement windows have very tight seals and are difficult to force open. This cranking operation also makes it easier to operate in hard-to-reach areas, such as over the kitchen sink.

Casement windows give a clean appearance when grouped together or when they are combined with picture and fixed-style windows. Providing an unbroken surface, they are right at home in more contemporary architecture.

As they have a more complex operation than do their sliding counterparts, casement windows are a more expensive option.

Like casement windows, awning windows operate on a hinge and they often use a cranking mechanism.

Awning windows have hinges along the top of the sash so they swing upward and outward. When windows are opened, this upward operation can provide you with slightly better protection from rain compared with casement windows.

In contemporary settings, these windows can often be found above or below large picture or fixed–frame windows. This provides ventilation alongside windows that are too heavy to be completely operational.

Picture and fixed-sash windows cannot be opened. Picture windows have very little framing around the outside edges of the sash, allowing for the greatest possible viewing area. In turn, fixed-sash windows typically have a frame around the outside so they can be matched closely to any casement or awning windows nearby. The lack of operating hardware also allows for larger, heavier panes of glass.

Because they are inoperable (meaning they cannot be opened), picture and fixed-sash winsows have an airtight seal. This makes them the most energy-efficient option available. They are also relatively maintenance free.

While they are most often found in more modern homes, these types of windows have a place anywhere you want to have an unobstructed view.

On the downside, these windows do not offer any ventilation. Moreover, as the size of the panes of glass increases, the windows can be more susceptible to breakage.

Bay and bow windows extrude outward from the side of your house. A bay window is composed of 3 sashes; the center one is usually larger, while the side ones are set at an angle. The side sections can be operable. In turn, bow windows are made of 5 or more sections of equal size, which are subsequently set at an equal angle to form an arc.

Bay and bow windows provide an aesthetic appeal that other types can’t match. As such, these windows work well within any architectural style and they provide a great focal point for any space.

The bay provides a large sill that can be used as a shelf, a bench or a desk. Larger varieties of bay windows provide depth to a space while letting in an abundance of light and opening up the room. Bow windows provided these same benefits, while being ideally suited to curved walls.

As bay and bow windows are breathtaking features of homes, you know they are also the most costly, both in terms of product price as well as labour. It can be difficult for window specialists to find and install window treatments because of the multitude of possible configurations and the difficulty in finding a good location to install the hardware. Moreover, they are the most difficult to install correctly. Many people feel that the cost is worth the end results.