If you’ve been shopping for replacement windows recently, you have probably discovered you’ve got a lot of decisions to make. Your options include such things as frame material, finish, glazing, energy-efficient coatings, hardware, and many other items. But one of the most basic decisions is which style of window to go with. Keep in mind that you don’t have to choose a replacement window that’s the same style as your existing windows. You may want to select something different to give your home an updated look, or maybe you’d just like a change.
But in selecting a window style, you want to make sure it will go with the overall look of your home. Traditional double-hung windows with grids look good on older and historic homes, while modern casements or sliders might look out of place. Here are the main window styles available (there are others, but these are the most common ones).
Which Window Style Would Look Best with Your Home’s Design?
The Colonial style home generally has a simple façade with traditional lines. Siding is usuallyf clapboard, brick, or shingle. These homes almost always have two stories with either a gabled or hip roof. Columns accentuating the entrance are common. Grille work placed in double-hung windows, which are symmetrically located, completes the major examples of these homes styled as early Americana. The grilles (also referred to as grids or divided light) should be small and evenly spaced. Color options generally are white or earth tones, such as shades of green or blue.
Georgian homes give the impression of smaller castle-like structures. They are of a formal appearance, with a historical European flare. There are usually robust chimneys at each end of the center structure, which frame a center entry hall. Facing the front of the house, formal rooms are located on each side of the hall. Two-story entries are common, with overlooking balconies. Double-hung windows would be the choice of experts. This generally includes five windows on the second story and four on the first, with the center entry proving the symmetry. To add accent to the entry, a Palladian window with an arched top over a transom completes the aesthetics. The traditional look should include small, evenly spaced grills. Color variations are generally white, green, or cream. Tudor-style homes would be similar to this style of home.
Southern-style homes bring back the grandeur of plantation mansions. Stacked porches within columns as well as verandas and window shutters are commonplace. Arched transom windows and dormers are among accents usually noted. Popular window options are usually double-hung windows, but casement models are also prevalent in updated versions of this home style. Elongated windows with evenly divided grille treatments complete this traditional look. The exterior color generally chosen is exclusively white.
Craftsman homes are generally of a homespun, simple construction, featuring accents of the early Arts and Crafts movement. A bungalow is a common example, and it features artistic rafter tails supporting the extended eaves. A front porch under a smaller second story with gable dormers is a common look. Double hung windows are the most popular window style for these homes. These may include grilles in the top sash only. Awning windows occasionally surround a fireplace. Prairie and mission-style homes would fall in this category as well.
Modern home styles vary, and the right style window for a newer home is not so easily defined. Much depends on your personal taste.
Not sure what window style would work well for your home? Learn more about the window options that you have when you work with us here at Window Outfitters. We can provide many different brands, styles and sizes to fit within your home. And we can also help you make the right choice. We are one of the leading exterior home remodeling contractors for the Minneapolis area, and we specialize in quality replacement windows. We can help you choose from affordable options to make your home look its best. Give us a call today for a free consultation.
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.
