Sliding windows comprise at least one or two sashes that slide left and right along tracks. When correctly installed, the windows slide effortlessly along their paths to allow easy opening and closing that doesn’t require lifting.
- Sliding Windows – slide horizontally
- Hung Windows – slide vertically
- Casement and Awning windows get opened by the crank or push.
The majority of sliding windows come in triple or double Sash styles. Double sliders have two sashes: one of which is operable and the other fixed. A triple slider has two operable and one fixed strap between the two that move. The size of sliding windows varies. However, they are generally significant and tend to be larger than tall. Some sliding windows extend from ceiling to floor, blurring the distinction between sliding windows and sliding doors. The most common locations to install sliding windows are:
- Living rooms, particularly those that overlook the backyard or patio
- Over kitchen sinks or counters
- Laundry rooms, as well as similar locations with limited space
- Upper rooms with balconies
- Bedrooms (if you enjoy waking to the sun)
Pros and Cons of Sliding Windows
As with all windows sliding windows come with their benefits and disadvantages, along with some negatives; think about their pros and cons before you decide if they’re the right windows to replace your windows.
Pro: Perfect Breeze
Sliding windows are great for air circulation, particularly with two sliding sashes. They are great for letting fresh air and a cool breeze into your home. It makes them very popular, especially in hot climates.
Pro: Simple to Open
Because they can get opened and closed horizontally instead of vertically, sliding windows are simple to operate. Moving a crank handle or pushing up against gravity is unnecessary for them to get opened. Therefore, they’re easy to open for anyone, even kids.
Pro: Great Natural Lighting
Sliding windows typically fit in an expansive window space and provide great natural light. Putting one on a wall facing south can fill homes with sunlight and offer a spectacular view.
Pro: Always in the Way
Specific windows, including casement, awning, and hopper windows, can open outwards or inwards, creating a risk in high-traffic areas. It’s not a problem for sliding windows.
Con: Energy Efficiency
Regarding energy efficiency, sliding windows aren’t on the pile’s top or bottom. They are less effective than casement windows with awnings but equal single-hung windows.
Con: Difficult to Clean
The sliding tracks at the bottom tend to get filled with debris and dirt, which makes cleaning sliding windows difficult. It can hinder the formation of the windows from sealing correctly, making windows less effective.
Con: Limited Style Options
Compared to other window types, sliding windows often come in a limited range of colors and styles, providing homeowners with fewer options.
The best method to determine whether sliding windows are the right choice for your home is to speak with professionals who will help you make the right decision. When replacing windows, most homeowners opt to replace the windows they have in place with the same style window. Selecting the same window style will save you the expense of re-framing the window opening to fit the window’s dimension or design.
We’re here to gain your trust and business. Please get in touch with Brampton Windows at 905 595 5091 or email us at info@bramptonwindows.ca if you have any questions.