Introduction

Windows are available in a selection of sizes, shapes, designs and materials, and to make the most of this significant investment it is important to select those that will complement the style of your home. On a more practical level, windows must also provide us with natural daylight, ventilation and routes to escape fire, while simultaneously keeping wind and rain out.

The best quality daylight will be found in a room that receives light from two directions and therefore two windows. However, this isn’t always practically achievable, so as a minimum basic guide, aim to achieve a 5:1 ratio between a room’s square area and it’s windows square area (which may include glazed doors). So for example, a 4m x 5m room has an area of 20m2 and should have a total window opening of 4m2.

Types of window

Differences between types of window are frequently defined by how they are opened, and these variations in openning are usually function specific. With this in mind it is important to select the correct type of window for the particular purpose you have in mind.

• Types of window

Types of glass

There are a number of different types of glass, and the choice is largely dependant on the location of the window; its size, height above the ground, exposure to sunlight, and any building regulations requirements.

• Types of glass

Window frame materials

Window frames may be manufactured in a number of materials, each of which have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of energy efficiency, durability, aesthetics and cost.

• Window frame materials

Window sizes

Windows are most commonly available from large glazing firms, which supply windows in a limited variety of sizes and/or shapes. This does mean that prices can be kept low, from a purely commercial perspective, however if you require something a little bit more unique then bespoke joiners are frequently the best/more expensive/only alternative.

• Common sizes of window

Window security

The way that your window opens determines what sort of security fittings you should use so that the opening mechanism can be obstructed. There are also specific fittings for use on the various window frame materials, so ensure that you select the right ones for your range of windows.

• Window security

Building Regulations

A number of Building Regulations pertain to windows, specifically Part N of the Building Regs, which mainly relates to their safety and energy efficiency. For most of us this information is not applicable, however if you are planning on fitting new windows yourself you need to be aware of the requirements.

• Window requirements of the building regulations

Further information and useful links

• Full list of windows & doors topics
• Walls & Ceilings topics
• Making sense of the energy efficiency ratings for your home
• Painting & Decorating topics
• Building Regulations information

• Find a Double Glazing supplier near you
• Find a Window Frame supplier near you
• Find a Skylight supplier near you
• Find a Sash Window supplier near you

• Find a Window Fitter near you
• Find a Carpenter near you
• Find a Glazier near you
• Find a Window Furniture supplier near you