Why You Might Consider a Picture Window for Your Minneapolis Home

Most of the Twin Cities homeowners we meet with to discuss replacement windows have energy efficiency at or near the top of their list when evaluating their choices in new windows.  What makes a window more energy efficient than another?  Yes, some window companies make more efficient windows than others, and components such as frame materials and coatings matter, but would it surprise you to know that the window style does as well?  By their very design, some styles of windows – such as casements – do a better job at sealing out air leaks. But the window styles that are the best at this are the inoperable (or fixed) windows, such as picture windows.

Choose a Picture Window for Your Home

Because there is no section of the window to open, fixed windows generally do a much better job at conserving energy and preventing air leaks than other window styles.  Of course, because they don’t open, they have their drawbacks and won’t work for every application, but there are situations where you best window solution could be a picture window.  In fact, there may be areas in your home where a picture window could be the perfect replacement for an existing window (or combination of windows) of another style.  Here are things to keep in mind:

• If you’ve got an area with a fantastic view, make the most of it with a picture window.  That window will act like a frame and show off nature’s beauty. 
• Picture windows work well in areas where ventilation can be provided by another means. Perhaps that is via windows on the same wall that open, or even a combination of windows.  We often install picture windows flanked with casements or double hung windows.  Awning windows work well underneath picture windows as well.  In fact, if you check out our Great Window Combinations board on Pinterest, you might get all kinds of design ideas. 
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  photo courtesy of Marvin Infinit

  Filling an entire wall with a picture window could be the right answer when there isn’t a need (or room) to open the window. Perhaps all you want is a little light or an unexpected view.  This floor-to-ceiling picture window from Marvin creates a fantastic view at the end of a hallway. 

• Think of using a picture window in a spot where you might be relaxing for awhile, such as on a window seat overlooking a garden, or soaking your bathtub.  Intentional design is involved here – and a window becomes much more than just a means to let in light or air.  In some cases it can become the entire focal point of a room. 

If you’re intrigued by the idea of replacing one or more of your existing windows with a style that will let you and your guests see more of the outdoors around your home, why not talk to us about having a picture window installed?  We offer picture windows from a number of quality manufacturers, including Marvin and Comfort Line.  We are a licensed Minnesota replacement window contractor serving the greater Twin Cities metro area.

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.