One of the features that often differentiates a sunroom from the rest of a home is the number of windows in it. The windows allow the amazing warmth and beauty of the outdoors to shine through. However, your window selection could depend upon:
- How you intend to use your sunroom
- The time of year you intend to make the most use of it
- The side of your house you plan to add your sunroom to.
By considering these factors, you can make the choice that fits the intended use of your sunroom. There are many types of sunroom windows, but here are the most common types:
- Picture Windows
Picture windows are a common choice because they provide an unhindered view of the outdoors while letting in natural light and can create quite a stunning effect. The downside is that they are stationary, which means you cannot open or close them. Because they do not provide privacy, picture windows are most appropriate for sunrooms facing a private yard.
- Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom and provide excellent ventilation when placed high on the wall, for instance above picture windows. Because they tilt away from the house, they protect against rain while allowing warm air to rise and leave the room through the opening at the bottom.
- Double-hung Windows
Double-hung windows have two framed panes that slide up and down and can lock in the middle. They allow a generous amount of breeze into the room from the warmer air moving up and out of the upper part of the window creating a vacuum to draw cooler air in through the lower opening. Many homeowners prefer these windows since this type of window often matches those already in the house.
- Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged on the side and open out like a door. They open and close with a cranking mechanism. On a warm day, you can enjoy the flow of breeze into your sunroom. They also allow a lot of natural light into your home and have a sophisticated look. They don’t protect against rain, though.
- Sliding Windows
Sliding windows, also called gliding windows, are another popular sunroom window selection. Here you have two framed panes that can slide horizontally on a track. These framed panels can be lifted out of the frame for easy cleaning of the exterior surface.
- Bay Windows and Bow Windows
Bay and bow windows project outward from the wall of a room to create an interior bay. Bow windows generally have four or more narrow window panels of equal width to create a circular appearance. Bay windows usually have three window panels, with the two at the side angled at 30 or 45 degrees attached to a fixed center. They can make a room appear larger and create a spot for plants or a window seat.
Energy Efficiency
You can measure energy efficiency by checking the energy rating for your windows. There are two common ratings – the U value and the SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient).
The U value is a measure of how much heat is transferred through the window. The lower the U value the better the insulating properties of the window, meaning the better it is at keeping the heat or the cold out.
The SHGC denotes how much solar radiation passes through the window. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heating will transfer through the window.
You could also consider Low-E (low-emissivity) windows. The glass is created to minimize the amount of UV light that comes through the window. Low-E windows have a thin transparent coating that reflects heat.
At Sunshine Sunrooms, we have a wide variety of customization options and use only high-quality materials. We can custom-make sunrooms to suit your needs that combine beauty, functionality and energy efficiency.
Talk to us today and discover our innovative design solutions that have helped us build an unparalleled reputation in over 25 years serving the greater Dallas community.
When adding a sunroom to your home, or renovating your existing one, contact the sunroom specialists you can trust. Call (972) 243-5390 or complete our online form.
