Windows: main types and characteristics

Traditionally, window frames were made of wood. However, modern materials have replaced wooden structures. In addition to the materials from which the windows are made, they can be divided by size, type of opening, design features, application and manufacturers. The catalog of window structures consists of hundreds of options, each of which is recommended to be installed in one or another case.Comparison of window varieties will allow you to determine the optimal type for installation in an apartment, in a country house, in a country house or industrial premises.

Views in the direction of opening

By the method of opening the windows are divided into the following types:

Folding. Such windows open at the top.
Rotary. This type of structure can open outward or inward.
Outboard. This type of window opens at the bottom.
Swivel structures vertically. In this case, the window opens on the right or left side, with one half of the window facing out and the other inward.
Swivel design horizontally. This design is similar to the previous one, but in this case the window opens up or down.
Folding sash window. This method of opening a window has an accordion type.
Sliding leaf design. The design opens by the principle of a sliding wardrobe.

Hinged and swivel mechanisms can be combined in one design for the possibility of choosing between easy ventilation and maximum opening of the window. Double-leaf windows can be made so that one of their leaves opens inward, and the second - outward. This allows you to reduce the width of the partition, as well as expand the light space of the window.

Types of windows in the form

Window options are also divided in form. On this basis, they are:

Rectangular The most common type. They can be both horizontal and vertical.
Round.
Triangular.
Trapezoidal.
Arched.
Combined.

The choice of the shape of the windows depends on the design decision, as well as the initial layout of the window opening.

Types of windows by purpose

In addition to the main function of the window, there are other functions. There are varieties of designs for their purpose:

Soundproof with thickened glass to absorb or reflect noise.
Thermal insulation windows with a special coating to preserve heat.
Shock-resistant windows, the production of which uses special resin.
Tinted windows, coated with a special substance that absorbs sunlight.

It is advisable to use each type in one or another case, and the types of structures for their intended purpose can be combined in certain types of windows.

Types of windows by material

Modern technologies make it possible to make windows from various materials, each of which has a number of advantages and disadvantages:

Metal-plastic. The most popular type of window in modern construction. The frames are made of PVC, inside of which is placed a metal profile. Such windows are notable for their environmental friendliness, good soundproofing and thermal insulation performance, durability, and the absence of the need for painting. The disadvantages include the lack of necessary air circulation, the formation of cracks at a very low temperature, as well as the low structural rigidity of a long glass packet. This type of window can be used for residential premises, balconies and private homes.
Aluminum. Visually, such windows are very similar to metal-plastic. However, they have several advantages. These include reliability, strength and durability, which allows them to be used for public places. The disadvantages include the high cost.
Eurobar. One of the most advanced materials for the production of windows. Eurobar is a construction of three wooden bars glued together. Their fibers are perpendicular to each other, guaranteeing high strength. The advantages include durability, environmental friendliness, resistance to temperature and humidity. The disadvantages include a rather high cost.
Tree. The review cannot be complete without traditional windows - wooden. Their advantages include reliability, good air microcirculation, and resistance to temperature extremes.The disadvantages include the need to constantly paint or varnish the window frame, swelling of the material as a result of exposure to high humidity, as well as a low level of tightness.

Each type of window is recommended to be used in one or another case. Wood is the most environmentally friendly material, aluminum guarantees strength and durability, metal-plastic windows retain heat in the house, and the Eurobar is a universal material, but it has a high price.