Types of Windows for Homes

types of windows for homes Green T

Windows for homes can come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors.

A single home may have all matching windows but most likely it has a few different types of windows.

Windows in different rooms will not serve the same purpose and so you will find more than one style to suit the needs of each room.

In this post, we review the most popular types of windows for homes to help educate you and get you started on the window replacement process.

Types of Windows for Homes

Single Hung Windows
Double Hung Windows
Bay Windows
Bow Windows
Picture Windows
Casement Windows
Sliding Windows
Garden Windows
Awning Windows
Basement Windows

Single Hung Windows

In single-hung windows, only the bottom window panel moves up and down.

The upper panel (or sash) is stationary.

This means that when you open the window, the upper panel is covered on the inside.

Double Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are the most traditional style of window design.

The double-hung window is very similar to the single hung window style, but the difference is that both the lower sash and the upper sash can move up and down.

Since both sashes on the double-hung windows are able to tilt in, they are very easy to clean from the inside or out.

Learn more about double hung window features

Bay Windows

A bay window is a window space projecting outward from the main walls of a building and forming a bay in a room.

It consists of a picture window with two other windows, usually smaller, on either side in angled projections.

Bay replacement windows are an excellent option for large window areas of a home.

They are a great way of expanding the inside out and making a room appear larger.

Learn more about bay windows

Bow Windows

Bow windows have a curved outward area along the outside of the home. This window style is usually a bit more expensive than it’s similar bay window type counterpart.

Bow windows are very similar to bay windows, and are easy to confuse with them.

A bow window typically has four or five outward window panels, as opposed to the three on a bay window.

Learn more about bow windows

Picture Windows

A picture window is a single large window often consisting of a single pane of glass.

It will be a simple square or rectangular shape that typically does not open.

This type of large window lets in a lot of light and will really brighten a room.

It often will become a focal point for a room.

Learn more about picture windows

Casement Windows

Casement windows are windows that are attached to the frame by one or more hinges on the side.

They are often installed in either single windows or in pairs within a common frame.

They add a contemporary look to any room with their folding, sleek hardware.

Their effortless operation and smooth gliding hardware make this deluxe window model into a truly high-performance product.

Learn more about casement windows

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are windows that open sideways, with one panel sliding over the other.

Sliding windows are used in openings that are wider than they are tall.

Slider windows are very easy to operate and can be fashioned in many different sizes and style configurations.

Learn more about sliding windows

Garden Windows

A garden window is a type of window that has projects from the exterior of a home.

It also provides display space in the window area. Many people use them for house plants and herb gardens.

A common location they are placed in the home is in front of the sink area.

A garden window lets more light into the home and helps expand a room outward.

Learn more about garden windows

Awning Windows

Awning windows are windows that are hinged on the top and swing outward.

The outward opening allows for ventilation while keeping out rain.

In addition, it makes for an easy cleaning window while creating a functional and useful opening.

They are often placed higher on walls for privacy or in combination with large stationary windows for a better view.

Learn more about awning windows

Basement Windows

Basement windows are often also referred to as escape windows.

Basement window styles will typically be awning windows, hopper windows or slider windows.

They allow for light and airflow in the basement while also offering a quick window release for a person to escape from the inside if necessary.

Learn more about basement windows

Ready to upgrade your windows?

Green T Windows can replace your windows with new EnergyStar rated windows that are made right here in the USA.

We carry all of the energy-efficient, Energy Star rated windows listed above, all made in the USA.

Call (630) 717-0007

Or request a quote online.

Green T Windows is located in Aurora, IL and serves the Chicago suburban area including Naperville, Joliet, Elgin, Schaumburg, Libertyville and all cities in between. Call us today!

How to clean Window Blinds

In this post we will go over a few different methods for cleaning your blinds.

How to Clean Aluminum Blinds

There are a few ways your can clean your aluminum blind and it just comes down to personal preference.

Vacuum the blinds with a soft brush attachments.
Wipe them down with a soft cloth and a soapy solution.
Using diluted vinegar is also a great way to clean your blinds.

This method can be time consuming however, especially if you have a lot of blinds.

Fill your bathtub with water and a bit of dish soap.
Take your blinds down and let them soak in the tub.
Gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse them off and let them dry on a few bath towels.

Alternatively:

Take your blinds outside on the grass on a hot sunny day.
Use a little soap on them and spray with a garden hose.
Flip them over and spray again.
You can scrub them with a soft brush if needed.
Let them dry and hang them back up.

Related: How to Replace Window Screens

How to Clean Wood Blinds

Most wood blinds have a special finish that help repel dirt and stains. You will need to treat them the same way you would stained furniture.

Start by vacuuming the blinds with a soft brush attachment.
Follow up with a soft cloth and furniture polish. Spray the furniture polish on the cloth and wipe each slat individually.
Avoid using water, solvents, or abrasive solutions that can cause warping and scratching.

How to Clean Faux Wood Blinds

Faux-wood blinds are one of the more popular types of window covering and cleaning them can be a simple process.

Close the blinds all the and hold the bottom rail.
Make sure the suction is on its lightest setting to avoid twisting or warping of slats.
Vacuum one side, turn the blinds the other way and vacuum the other side.
Handheld dusters are also very effective on this type of blind.

If you have faux-wood blinds in the kitchen they may have a bit of grease or grime that can be a bit more stubborn.

Begin the same way as before by vacuuming the blinds.
Wet a duster or soft cloth with either a soapy water mixture or you can use watered down vinegar.
Dry each slat with a dry soft cloth.

Related: 10 Helpful Fall Cleaning Tasks

How to Clean Vertical Blinds

The process for cleaning vertical blinds is very similar to the previous methods listed above.

Vacuum and dry dust the blinds.
A lint roller can be used to easily roll over the blinds and pick up dust and cobwebs.
Do not use abrasive or strong cleaners as they will damage the surface of your blinds.
Soaking fabric vanes will cause them to lose their shape and dust repellent coating.

Ready to upgrade your windows?

Green T Garage windows can replace your windows with new EnergyStar rated windows that are made right here in the USA.

Call (630) 717-0007

Or request a quote online.

Green T Windows is located in Aurora, IL and serves the Chicago suburban area including Naperville, Joliet, Elgin, Schaumburg, Libertyville and all cities in between. Call us today!

When Should You Get Replacement Windows?

In this post, we’ll talk about the signs your windows are ready for replacement and benefits and options when it comes to new windows.

There are many reasons why you may want to replace your old windows. They offer smoother operation, lower maintenance, energy savings, fewer drafts and easier cleaning. However, it can be expensive to replace your windows so here’s what you need to know before you make the investment.

Window Repair

Do your windows feel drafty? Do they fog up? Do they stick or refuse to stay open? Often you can repair and restore old windows if you’re willing to set aside

the time. With that being said there are situations where repair is not worth your time or the expense.

Rot: If you have rotting wood it’s tough to stop unless you commit yourself to replacing all of it and then you will need to maintain it regularly.
Fogged double-pane glass. Once fogging occurs between the glass panes it can’t be fixed. Replacing the glass is the only solution, which can be very expensive. Consider replacing the window instead.
Replacement hardware. You may be able to get hard-to-find parts from online suppliers but often new windows are the only option.

Home Makeover

Windows are one of the more prominent features of a home and can change the way your home feels and looks. The design of your window should be very important to you when selecting new windows. The right windows can add value to your home and choosing the wrong windows will actually detract from that value. The overall look of a home or space should be a key factor in the window selection process.

Energy Savings

You can reduce your energy bills by 10%-25% by replacing your old windows with energy-efficient ones. When properly selected and installed, energy-efficient windows can help minimize your heating, cooling, and lighting costs.

Are you ready to expand your view and improve your home? Contact us online or phone (630) 717-0007 to learn more about window replacement!

Sliding Windows

There are many types of window styles. How do you know which one is best for your home? In this post, we will help you decide on the best sliding replacement windows for your needs.

One of the best ways to choose a window style for your home is to ask yourself how you will use them. For example, do your windows need to have the ability to open? Are you looking for maximum ventilation? Or does your space require a custom shape window? The best choice is usually subjective to the size of the window opening.

The best choice is usually subjective to the size of the window opening. Sliding windows are ideal for large space, due to their wide design that offers a clean, elegant look.

What is a Sliding Window?

Sliding window replacements are a beautiful addition to a large window space. Slider windows are very easy to operate and can be fashioned in many different sizes and style configurations.

Pairing two or three lite-sliding windows can evoke a sleek, contemporary feel to your home. Sliding windows provide a wide-open expansive view with no horizontal obstruction. For maintenance ease, sashes lift in so they can be removed for safe and easy cleaning. On the slide-n-swing, the sashes swing in for easy cleaning.
Sliding replacement window styles

Our replacement windows are made from vinyl frames which form a better seal around the glass to avoid heat and air loss through leakage. The glass on our sliding windows is Low-E glass which strips sunlight of its heat and reflects the heat radiation away from the home.

Both of these features help to increase your heating and cooling efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills.

Benefits of Sliding Windows

Unobstructed view. Sliding windows are an ideal choice for openings that have a width great than their height. The wide design of a sliding window offers a large, horizontal view of the Slide-n-Swing-Slider Window Cleaning outdoors. The larger the window, the more natural light you’ll be able to enjoy in your home.

Energy Efficiency. Because of its design, a sliding window does not have complicated moving parts that other types of windows have. Green T Windows come with a variety of features and options to fit your needs. We offer two window series, the 360 and the 360 Platinum. Check out their features here!

Easy to use. Because of its design, a sliding window does not have complicated moving parts that other types of windows have. Sliding windows are known for their easy-to-use design, which allows you to slide one side of the window open, while the other stays stationary. These types of windows can be easily opened or closed with the push of a finger, due to the roller that the window sash slides on. Because of this, they are often found in spaces where it may be difficult to reach the window to open or close it.

Are you ready to expand your view and improve your home? Contact us online or phone (630) 717-0007 to learn more about the sliding windows at Green T!

How to Replace a Window Screen

Spring is here! Chances are you have opened the windows once or twice to let in the breeze, but did your check to see if your screens need replacing after the long winter months? Before the bugs start using the holes as a highway into your house, check to see if your screens have any tears in them and we can help you fix them.

What you will need:

Fiberglass screening, which costs about $8 a roll.
Spline, which is the rubber rope that holds your screen in. Now spline comes in a few different sizes. So bring a piece with you to make sure you purchase the right size. It costs about $5 a roll, and is enough to do two windows.
A spline roller, the tool that helps push the spline into the track. A car key works just fine just not as efficient as a spline roller. A spline roller costs about $6.50.
A box cutter
Scissors

Replacing the Screen:

Unroll your screen to estimate just how much you need. Cut it off so you have a couple inches extra all around the window.
Grab the spline, which will go over the screen, into this channel around the window.
The spline roller has 2 ends. One with a grove in it, like you see here, and one without a grove. Use the end with the groove. The groove fits over the ridges in the spline and helps it go in straight.
Hold your screen up to the window and stick the end of your spline into the corner of a channel. Push it in tight with the tool (or your key). Holding your screen tight, roll the spline roller along the spline, pushing it into the channel.
Continue to push the spline in with the roller all around the window. Make sure you’re always holding the screen tightly so your finished product will be taut.
Once the screen is in, use your box cutter to cut of the excess screen around the edges.

The same principal works for all window screens, old or new. This also works for a screen door. You might find it easier to take the screen out and lay it on the floor.

Can’t remove the screens and need a new windows?

Request a Quote or Give us a call today (630) 717-0007!

What is the Difference Between a Bow and a Bay Window?

Difference between bay window and bow window

In this post, we will explain the difference between bay and bow windows, two types of windows with some similarities that are often confused for each other.

Bay and Bow windows are an excellent option for replacement windows in areas of your home with large window areas. They increase the amount natural light and provide good views while increasing your home value.

Often referred to as “Bay and Bow Windows” in catalogs and websites, “bay windows” and “bow windows” are actually two different kinds of windows (although they are similar).

Below we will explain the difference.

Bay Windows

Bay Window with Casement Flankers Bay windows are comprised of three windows of varying sizes. The typical bay window will have a large window in the center with a slightly smaller window on either side. The two smaller windows will be angled away from the wall at around 25 to 45 degrees.

The large center window provides a largely unobstructed view of the outside with the two smaller windows being either fixed or vented to allow cooling air into the home.

Bow Windows

Four Wide Bow Window with Casement Flankers A bow window is made up of between three to six equally sized windows. The windows will extend outside the home similar to bay windows but instead of sharply angled sides, the entire bow window forms an arched shape.

Bow windows extend the view and make a wide view that looks great in a living room, bedroom or elsewhere in the home.

Differences between bay and bow windows

- Bay windows usually have three window panes, while a bow window will usually have four or more panes of glass.

A bay window has one larger picture window with a smaller angled pane on each side. Bow windows will appear to be curved, especially when viewed from the outside.
Bay windows will usually extend farther to the outside, often adding a little more floor space to the inside of the home.
Bow windows have more glass panes which usually allow more light into the room than a bay window.
Bow windows are usually wider overall from end to end.
A bow window is more expensive to install than a bay window because it requires a soffit tie-in or a new hip roof to seal out the air and water.
Bay window

Whichever option is right for your house, homeowners usually love the improved view and natural light that bay and bow windows provide. Many say they wish they had made the change to their home sooner. They instantly add value to the home because of the improved view and lighting.

Bay and Bow windows make a good impression as soon as someone walks into the room!

Are you ready to expand your view and improve your home? Contact us online or phone (630) 717-0007 to learn more about the bay and bow windows at Green T!

Your FAQs About Window Replacement Answered!

Casement Window Replacement

Thinking about looking into replacing your windows, but are overwhelmed with so many questions?

As your local window replacement company, we compiled the top three questions that we get asked daily and answered for them for you!

How do I tell if my windows need replacing?

If you felt a draft the past few months, its a sure sign that your windows are failing you and they need to be replaced. Other signs are if your windows are getting stuck either open or closed or if they are painted shut. Another reason is their age, if the windows are over 20 years old they should be replaced for efficiency purposes. The last reason is if they don’t stay open or if they don’t lock.

How much is replacing my windows going to cost?

The cost of your replacement windows will vary depending on the number and the kind of windows you need (double hung, bay & bow, picture, etc). There are a lot of factors that effect the cost of replacing your windows. We at Green T provide you with a free estimate at your home at your convenience. Think you need an estimate? Give us a call and schedule an estimate.

How long will my new windows last?

Our windows are made durable, built to last, and energy efficient. With our Green T Guarantee, we provide you with a lifetime warranty.

Are you ready to take the leap and get new windows?

Give us a call today to set up an appointment.

Call Us: (630) 717-0007

Green T Windows at Old House New House Home Show

Green T Windows was in attendance at the 2017 The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run in St. Charles, Illinois in February.

This annual event attracted thousands to the convention center at Pheasant Run to check out the latest trends in home interiors and exteriors and meet with the best contractors, designers and craftsman from across the Chicagoland area.

So of course, we were there to show off our windows, doors, and siding and answer questions from those in attendance. We love shows like this because we get the chance to talk to our local customers in person and demonstrate why Green T is the best home services company in Chicagoland.

We were doing giveaways all day long to visitors in attendance. Our biggest giveaway was for $7,500 worth of free windows to a lucky winner.

Watch the short video below to see the lucky winners:

Congratulations Kelly and Adam Stevens!!

We definitely recommend that you attend next year’s Old House New House Home Show.

We hope to see you there!

Since 1984 The Old House New House Home Show has brought together over 300 award-winning contractors, talented designers, creative craftsmen and industry innovators with an audience of 10,000 Chicago area homeowners in a celebration of home renovation and transformation.

Green T Services display at Pheasant Run

If you missed the show you can request an estimate online or call us: (630) 717-0007

3 Reasons to Replace Your Windows During Winter.

3 Benefits to replacing your windows during the winter season.

1. Scheduling: Often, contractors and installers experience a lull in business during the winter months, especially after the holidays. Chances are you can get your window replacement scheduled much sooner than you could in the spring or fall.

2. Affordability: Along with easier scheduling, contractors and suppliers may offer discounts, sales or other incentives during this slower season.

3. Lower monthly expenses: Once your new windows are installed, you will experience the benefits of energy efficient windows. In addition to warmer rooms, you should start seeing immediate savings on your winter energy bills.

Source: https://www.angieslist.com/articles/dont-fear-winter-window-replacement.htm
Source image:http://www.nyilaszarok-ablakok.hu/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/nyilaszaro.jpg

Don’t Fear Winter Window Replacement

Your first thought may be that window replacement is a fair-weather job, but replacing windows in winter offers unique benefits.

When “Old Man Winter” has arrived, the mercury drops and frozen winds start whipping, cold air can find its way into your home. Any break in your home’s “envelope” — the home’s outer shell of that protects the inside from the elements — is a prime source for air leakage.

Typically, windows account for the most surface area in your home’s envelope openings. And when you have old or inefficient windows, air leaks can make the temperatures inside uncomfortably chilly during the winter — not to mention the added wear on your HVAC system as it struggles to maintain the set temperature.

Will winter window replacement make your home a freezer?

Your old, leaky windows may have you considering a window replacement project, especially if the inside of your house is cold during the winter.

‘But, wait,’ you wonder. ‘Why would I replace my windows in the winter? My house will be freezing during the project!’

This is where research comes in handy. When looking for a window installer, ask about the procedures they follow to keep your home from getting cold during installation.

Best practices for winter window replacement jobs.

1. Remove one window at a time: During a window replacement project, installers should remove only one window at a time and replace it with the new window before moving on to the next one. That way, they limit the number of openings exposed to the cold air outside.

2. Use plastic floor-to-ceiling barriers: For larger openings, the installer should cover the opening with plastic floor to ceiling barriers. One example is installing bay or bow window, which are made of a number of windows such as double pane and picture windows.

3. Keep doors closed: When replacing a window, the installer should keep the door to that room closed, limiting the amount of cold air that can find its way into adjoining areas of the home.

4. Cleanliness practices: Along with winter cold comes mud, whether from rain or snowfall. Installers should use tarps, shoe-covering booties and other practices to ensure your home remains clean.

Source: https://www.angieslist.com/articles/dont-fear-winter-window-replacement.htm
Source image: http://media1.s-nbcnews.com/i/newscms/2015_47/865826/how-to-winterize-windows-today-tease-151118_a9f03ec4521822be7f1b068c636bc488.jpg