Window Treatment & Styles

19 Types of Windows: Styles, Uses & Costs

Posted February 10, 2026

If you're looking for new windows for your home, you're probably thoroughly researching the market, trying to understand the benefits and drawbacks of different types of windows available, right?

Well, we're here to take this burden off your shoulders! In the following sections, you'll find everything there is to know about 19 types of windows for homes - how they operate, their advantages and disadvantages, and average prices.

19 Types of Windows for Homes

Ready to find the windows of your dreams? Here's a quick breakdown of the 19 types of windows we'll discuss in detail below:

Window Type	Operation	Best Used For	Typical Cost
Single-Hung	Bottom sash moves	Bedrooms, traditional homes	$300-$2,200
Double-Hung	Both window sashes move	Living rooms, upper floors	$500-$2,500
Casement	Side-hinged, swings out	Energy efficiency, ventilation	$500-$5,000
Sliding	Slides horizontally	Wide openings, patios	$400-$2,500
Awning	Top-hinged, opens out	Bathrooms, rainy climates	$600-$2,600
Hopper	Bottom-hinged, opens in	Basements, utility rooms	$300-$2,000
Picture (Fixed)	Non-operable	Views, natural light	$300-$3,000+
Bay	3-panel projection	Living rooms, curb appeal	$1,500-$6,000
Bow	Curved multi-panel	Large rooms, elegance	$2,500-$6,000+
Skylight / Roof	Roof-mounted	Attics, dark interiors	$500-$3,000+
Transom	Fixed or operable	Above doors/windows	$300-$1,000
Clerestory	High wall placement	Modern homes, privacy	$400-$2,500+
Sidelight	Vertical beside doors	Entryways	$300-$600
Arched / Round	Fixed, decorative	Architectural accents	$400-$2,000+
Jalousie	Glass louvers	Hot, humid climates	$400-$600
Dormer	Roof projection	Attics, lofts	$1,500-$6,000+
Tilt and Turn	Tilt or swing open	Energy-efficient homes	$700-$2,000+
Glass Block	Fixed translucent	Privacy areas	$400-$1,500+
Specialty Shapes	Custom fixed	Unique designs	$600-$5,000+
Egress	Code-compliant	Basements, bedrooms	Varies

1. Single-Hung Windows

Single-hung windows have two sashes stacked vertically within a single window frame. Only the bottom sash is movable, and it slides up and down within the tracks that are built into the window frame. The upper sash is permanently fixed.

Single-hung windows are perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, basement recreation rooms, and any first-floor application where exterior access for cleaning is straightforward. They're also ideal for older homes where replacement windows must match a more traditional aesthetic.

Single-hung windows cost between $300 and $2,200, depending on size, quality, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Single-Hung Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Most affordable operable window type	Limited ventilation; only lower sash opens
Fixed upper sash seals better than operable	Can't access exterior of upper sash from inside
Fewer moving parts = less maintenance	Less practical for upper-floor cleaning
Classic look suits most architectural styles	Smaller total opening area than double-hung
Simpler hardware to repair or replace
Unlike casement windows, hung windows don't obstruct exterior spaces

2. Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows feature two sashes that move independently within the window frame. Both upper and lower sashes slide up and down. Modern units typically include tilt-in sashes, allowing both panes to pivot inward for interior cleaning of exterior glass surfaces.

Double-hung windows are excellent for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and any upper-floor application where interior glass cleaning matters. They suit Colonial, Victorian, Craftsman, and contemporary architectural styles equally well.

Double-hung windows cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on quality, size, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Double-Hung Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Excellent ventilation with dual operation	More moving parts than single-hung
Tilt-in sashes simplify exterior cleaning	Higher air leakage potential than hinged types
Creates natural convective air flow	Slightly higher cost than single-hung
Safer option; can open top for ventilation only	More complex hardware maintenance
Works with any architectural style	Limited opening size due to sash thickness

3. Casement Windows

Casement windows are hinged on one vertical side and swing open outward like a door. They are typically operated by a crank handle that engages a multi-point locking mechanism. When closed, the sash is pulled tightly against the frame, creating an exceptionally tight air barrier.

There are two main types of casement windows:

Single casement windows: a single casement window contains one window opening on a hinge along the side of the window. These are most commonly used in standard-sized windows in the bathroom, living room, or bedroom.
Double casement windows: double casement windows feature two window panels that swing out independently of each other. The left window swings out to the left, and the right window swings out to the right.

Casement windows are excellent for hard-to-reach areas, such as above the kitchen sink, for bedrooms and living rooms, as well as for egress purposes.

Single casement windows cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on quality. Double casement windows cost between $800 and $5,000, depending on quality.

Pros and Cons of Casement Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Exceptional air sealing via compression seals	Requires exterior clearance for crank swing
Unobstructed views; no horizontal meeting rail	Crank hardware can corrode in coastal climates
Superior ventilation	Hardware can wear out over time and cause structural issues
Excellent for high-wind regions	More expensive than sliding windows

4. Sliding (Slider) Windows

Sliding windows, also called slider windows or horizontal sliders, feature one or more sashes that move side to side along tracks.

Sliding windows come in the following styles:

Single sliders: only allow one window pane/sash to slide open.
Double sliders: allow two panes/sashes to slide open.
Triple sliders: two operable sashes and one stationary sash.

Sliding windows are naturally suited to wide wall openings where expansive views matter and minimal window frame obstruction is desired. They work perfectly adjacent to patios, decks, balconies, and ground-level walkways where swinging sashes would create hazards.

Single sliding windows cost between $400 and $2,200, depending on quality. Double sliding windows cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on quality.

Pros and Cons of Sliding Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Simple operation; no crank or mechanical parts	Sliding seals allow slightly more air leakage
No exterior swing clearance required	Horizontal tracks accumulate dirt and debris
Ideal for wide openings without obstruction	Only 50% of frame area opens (typically)
Lower cost than casement or awning windows	Weatherstripping degrades with track use
Excellent for creating room-to-patio flow
Less maintenance than for hinged mechanisms

5. Awning Windows

Awning windows hinge at the top and swing outward from the bottom, creating a sloped profile resembling an outdoor awning. Like casements, they operate via a crank mechanism that pulls the sash tight when closed. Awning windows can be kept open when it rains.

Awning windows excel in bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, laundry areas, and any space requiring continuous ventilation, regardless of weather. They also work well as clerestory windows and can be installed in basements that don't require egress windows. They're commonly installed below or above fixed picture windows.

Awning windows cost between $600 and $2,600, depending on quality, size, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Awning Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Rain protection; water runs off when open	Smaller maximum opening sizes
Continuous ventilation in wet weather	Requires exterior swing clearance
Excellent for bathrooms and humid spaces	Interior screens necessary (less aesthetic)
Tight seals for improved energy efficiency	More expensive
Low maintenance	Not suitable for egress

6. Hopper Windows

Hopper windows hinge at the bottom and swing inward, opening toward the room interior - like awning windows, but in reverse. They typically operate via a simple push-open mechanism or bottom-hinged crank.

Hopper windows work well in bathrooms, utility rooms, attics, and other utility spaces where ventilation matters more than views.

Hopper windows cost between $300 and $2,000, depending on quality.

Pros and Cons of Hopper Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Affordable compared to casements/double-hung	Opens inward; can interfere with interior space
Simple operation; single sash design	Rain can enter if left open during weather
Ideal for basement/low-height applications	Usually opens only up to a 45 degree angle; some models open up to a 90-degree angle
Energy efficient	Easier to clean thanks to the inward opening design
Great for privacy	Typically not suitable for egress

7. Picture & Fixed Windows

Picture windows are permanently sealed with no operable sashes, hinges, tracks, or mechanical hardware. The glass is securely adhered to the frame, creating a complete static assembly designed purely for viewing and light transmission. Unlike operable windows, fixed units cannot be opened for ventilation or emergency egress.

Picture windows are often installed in living rooms, dining areas, and any space where views and natural light are priorities. They're commonly used as the centerpiece of multi-window assemblies, flanked by casement or double-hung units for ventilation.

Picture windows cost between $300 and $3,000+, depending on quality, size, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Picture Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Superior energy efficiency; no air leaks	No ventilation capability whatsoever
Largest unobstructed glass areas available	Cannot serve as emergency egress
Lower cost than comparably-sized operable units	Exterior cleaning difficult on upper floors
No moving parts; virtually maintenance-free	Requires combination with operable units

8. Bay Windows

Bay windows project outward from the building's exterior wall and have three panels arranged in a polygonal shape. The classic configuration includes a large fixed center pane flanked by two narrower operable windows (casements or double-hungs).

Bay windows are installed in living rooms, dining rooms, master bedrooms, and any room where architectural interest and expanded interior space are desired. The interior nook works perfectly for reading benches, window seats, or display shelving.

Bay windows cost between $1,500 and $6,000, depending on quality, size, complexity, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Bay Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Adds interior space and perception of size	Requires structural support; expensive installation
Captures light and air from multiple angles	Prone to air leaks if poorly installed and solar heat gain without Low-E coatings
Creates desirable interior nook	Roof and flashing complexity; leak risk
Increases curb appeal and home value	Higher maintenance than flat-wall windows
	Significantly more expensive than flat installations

9. Bow Windows

Bow windows are similar to bay windows, except that they are curved. Moreover, bow windows consist of four or more window panels. This creates a smooth, rounded projection on the exterior and a graceful curved nook inside.

Bow windows work in living rooms, dining areas, and master bedrooms where elegant, formal architectural details matter. The curved geometry creates distinctive interior spaces ideal for reading nooks, dining configurations, or display areas.

Bow windows cost between $2,500 and $6,000+, depending on size, number of panels, materials, and installation complexity.

Pros and Cons of Bow Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Exceptional architectural elegance	Most expensive window type to install
Captures light from wide arc	Complex framing and flashing requirements
Creates distinct, usable interior space	Prone to leaks if improperly installed
Curved lines appeal to high-end designs	Difficult to retrofit; usually better for new construction
Significant curb appeal and value addition	Curved glass costs more than flat panes
	Requires experienced installation crews

10. Skylight and Roof Windows

Skylights and roof windows are installed within the roof plane rather than vertical walls. They bring daylight into spaces that would otherwise lack exterior wall access. Fixed skylights transmit light only. Venting skylights have operable sashes that open manually via crank, pole, or motorized mechanisms. Modern units often integrate rain sensors that auto-close during precipitation, along with motorized blinds for light and heat control.

Skylights and roof windows are essential for finished attics, second-story bathrooms in townhouses, interior corridors and stairwells, kitchen islands, and any upper-floor space lacking convenient wall openings.

Skylights cost between $500 and $3,000+, depending on materials and quality.

Pros and Cons of Skylight Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Brings natural light to interior spaces	Complex roof penetration installation
Venting models improve attic air circulation	High maintenance; risk of leaks
Can reduce daytime artificial lighting needs	Significant solar heat gain in hot climates
Automated options offer convenience	Condensation issues without proper ventilation
Rain sensors prevent water infiltration	Expensive installation labor
	Difficult to retrofit cleanly

11. Transom & Clerestory Windows

Transom windows are small windows mounted horizontally above doors or larger windows. Clerestory windows form continuous bands of glazing high on walls near the roofline. Both serve similar purposes: bringing natural light into interior spaces without reducing wall space for furniture, artwork, or cabinetry. Both can be fixed or operable.

Transom windows are most often installed above front doors, but they can work just as well alongside living room or dining room windows.

Clerestory windows are particularly effective in contemporary homes with tall ceilings, modern open-concept plans, and commercial applications.

Transom windows cost between $300 and $1,000, depending on size and model. Clerestory windows cost between $400 and $2,500+, depending on width and materials.

Pros and Cons of Transom Windows and Clerestory Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Bring light without sacrificing wall space	Difficult to access for cleaning
Improve upper-room air circulation	Exterior cleaning challenging
Perfect for privacy	Operating hardware out of easy reach
Add architectural interest and detail	Limited opening size in clerestory applications
Reduces artificial lighting needs	Energy-efficient options are required
	Difficult to retrofit cleanly

12. Sidelights

Sidelights are vertical windows installed on one or both sides of an entry door, framing the doorway with additional light and visual interest. Fixed sidelights transmit light only and do not open. Some high-end sidelights include operable casement or hopper configurations, though this is less common.

Sidelights are typically manufactured as an integrated unit with the door, though some can be replaced independently.

Sidelights cost between $300 and $600 per unit installed. Full pre-hung door-and-sidelight assemblies with quality materials cost between $2,500 and $10,000+ installed.

Pros and Cons of Sidelights

Advantages	Disadvantages
Dramatically increase entryway light	Higher door installation cost
Provide architectural detail and curb appeal; higher home value	Require energy-efficient options, such as triple-pane glass and Low-E coatings
Options for obscured glass maintain privacy	Require reinforced glass for security
Enhance home value and first impressions	Difficult to replace if damaged
Reduces artificial lighting needs	Cannot easily be added to existing doors
	Difficult to retrofit cleanly

13. Arched & Round Windows

Arched windows feature curved glass panels that crown entryways, windows, or wall sections, echoing Mediterranean, Romanesque, or Gothic architectural influences. Round windows (sometimes called porthole windows) are completely circular, adding nautical character. Both are fixed (non-operable) unless custom mechanisms are designed.

Arched windows are often installed above entryways, as a focal point in formal dining rooms, or on top of existing rectangular windows. Round windows suit staircases, bathrooms, attic spaces, or bedrooms seeking distinctive character.

Arched windows cost between $500 and $2,000+. Round windows cost between $400 and $2,000+. The final price depends on size and materials.

Pros and Cons of Arched and Round Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Dramatic architectural impact	Significantly more expensive per square foot
Add character and uniqueness	Custom fabrication required
Improves light distribution to unusual spaces	Limited to fixed (non-operable) configurations
Works with specific architectural themes	Difficult to install window treatments
	Require Low-E coatings to reduce heat gain

14. Jalousie Windows

Jalousie windows have multiple horizontal glass louvers (slats) mounted in a frame. They are similar to exterior venetian blinds but with glass instead of slats. The louvers are mounted on hinges or pivots, opening outward when a central crank or lever is turned.

Jalousie windows are recommended only for hot climates. They're ideal for porches, sunrooms, garages, utility spaces, and any application prioritizing maximum air flow over air conditioning efficiency.

Jalousie windows cost between $400 and $600.

Pros and Cons of Jalousie Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Maximum ventilation capability	Poor energy efficiency
Simple operation; straightforward mechanism	Cannot be left fully open safely in wind
Affordable compared to other styles	Gaps between louvers allow air leakage
Great for humid climates	Multiple moving parts require maintenance
	Rain can enter if not fully closed

15. Dormer Windows

A dormer is a structural projection from the roofline that includes one or more windows. The dormer window itself operates like a standard casement, double-hung, or awning window. The entire dormer structure, including framing, roof, flashing, and walls, must be built as an integrated assembly. Common dormer window styles include gable (peaked roof), shed (flat roof), hipped, and eyebrow styles.

Single-window dormer installations start at around $1,500 for basic configurations. Larger or multiple-window dormers range from $3,000 to $6,000+.

Pros and Cons of Dormer Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Creates full-height wall space in attics	Complex and expensive installation
Adds headroom and usable floor area	Requires structural framing and engineering
Increases exterior curb appeal and home value	Roof penetration risk
Bring more natural light to attic spaces	High maintenance
Improves attic ventilation	Requires scaffolding and specialized labor

16. Tilt & Turn Windows

Tilt-and-turn windows combine two operating modes in one unit: the window can tilt inward from the top (like a hopper window), or swing fully open on side hinges (like a casement). A single handle controls both modes: turning it one direction tilts the window; another direction swings the sash full open. This European design originated in Germany and has gained popularity in North America among energy-conscious homeowners valuing fresh air control.

Tilt and turn windows cost between $700 and $2,000+, depending on size and window frame materials.

Pros and Cons of Tilt and Turn Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Two opening modes in one unit	Less commonly available; sourcing challenges
Excellent interior cleaning capability	Complex hardware prone to issues
Precise ventilation control	Difficult to retrofit into standard openings
Boosted energy efficiency	Limited color and finish options

17. Glass Block and Privacy Windows

Glass block windows comprise thick glass blocks mortared together like masonry, forming translucent but not transparent assemblies. Their patterned surface blurs images while transmitting light. Most glass block windows are completely fixed and immobile. However, some manufacturers offer integrated small vents (casement or hopper inserts within the glass block field) for ventilation.

Glass block windows are usually installed in basements, shower enclosures, and utility spaces.

Glass block windows cost between $400 and $1,500+.

Pros and Cons of Glass Block Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Complete privacy while allowing light	Cannot be modified once installed
Superior security; thick blocks resist entry	No ventilation unless vent unit added
Distinctive retro/modern aesthetic	Not suitable for many architectural styles
Good insulation value	Difficult cleaning due to texture
Sound dampening characteristics	Expensive per square foot
Durable and long-lasting	Structural support required

18. Specialty Windows

Specialty windows break from standard rectangular forms: we're talking circles, half-rounds, triangles, octagons, trapezoids, hexagons, and virtually any custom-designed shape imaginable. Most custom windows have fixed panes (non-operable) due to the mechanical complexity of installing hinges or seals in non-rectangular shapes.

Custom-designed windows cost between $600 and $5,000+, depending on size, shape, and materials.

Pros and Cons of Specialty Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Exceptional architectural design impact	Most expensive per square foot of glass
Solves geometric fitting challenges	Usually fixed; no ventilation capability
Can highlight specific views or light	Custom fabrication required
High-end aesthetic and visual interest	Difficult to install window treatments
	Longer lead times for custom orders

19. Egress Windows

An egress window is any window that meets building code requirements for emergency escape. For example, a casement window that meets minimum egress requirements is an egress window. Awning and hopper windows usually do not qualify as egress because they typically open up only to a 45-degree angle, so they don't provide enough clearance.

Egress windows are required in finished basement bedrooms and any habitable space. They're essential for safety, legal compliance, and insurance purposes. Check local building codes before installing windows, as requirements vary by jurisdiction.

The price of egress windows depends on the type of window you're installing and its size. Besides the window price, you should also consider the price for installing a window well and a drainage system if the window is in the basement.

Pros and Cons of Egress Windows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Satisfies code requirements for safety	Requires excavation and structural work
Enables basement bedroom conversions	Window wells prone to water issues
Allows finished basement value addition	Proper installation is critical
Increases property value and usability	Maintenance challenges year-round
Can be attractive if well-designed

Planning to Replace Your Windows? Turn Your Ideas into Reality with Magic!

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With Magic, you can get windows of any shape and any size. We're actually eager to work on unique projects, given that all our units are manufactured right here in Ontario, and we can personalize them however you want!
Magic’s casement windows are crank-less and hinge-less! Our casement windows feature the revolutionary Parallex hardware system that makes cranks obsolete.
Both sashes in our double sliders can be opened simultaneously since they feature a tilt-in function that allows you to open them inwards at a 90-degree angle.
Our window units are built specifically for the climate in Toronto and can withstand the freezing winters and the humid summers, being ENERGY STAR rated.
Magic offers professional installation and a 40-year warranty on window units - after all, quality windows only perform as designed if they're installed correctly!

If you're comparing quotes or just starting to plan a window project, reach out to Magic today to get high-performing and aesthetically pleasing new construction windows!

FAQs

What are the types of windows for homes?

Common window types for homes include single-hung, double-hung, casement, sliding, awning, bay, bow, picture, and specialty shapes. Each type serves different needs for ventilation, light, and architectural style.

Which window is best for a home?

There is no single “best” window, as the ideal choice depends on climate, budget, energy efficiency goals, and aesthetic preferences. Double-hung and casement windows are often favored above others for their versatility and performance.

What are the 4 main types of windows?

The four main types of windows are hung windows, casement windows, awning windows, and sliding windows. These cover most residential needs for ventilation, ease of use, and cost efficiency.

What do you call a 3 panel window?

A three-panel window might be a sliding window or a bay window, depending on design.

What are those windows that stick out called?

Windows that project outward from the house are called bay windows or bow windows. They add interior space, allow natural light, and enhance curb appeal.

What are up and down windows called?

Up-and-down windows are called single-hung or double-hung windows. In single-hung windows, only the bottom sash moves, while in double-hung windows, both sashes move.

Which type of windows is better?

The “better” window type depends on priorities such as energy efficiency, ventilation, maintenance, and style. For example, casement windows often seal better for energy efficiency, while double-hung windows offer easier cleaning and traditional appeal.

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