Choosing new windows gives you the opportunity to change the look of your home. You can also create a more practical space that is both comfortable and energy-efficient if you make the right choices.
One of the most basic choices is how your windows are configured — whether they are fixed or operable. In general, you will have a mixture but getting the right combination is crucial.
Understanding Fixed Windows
Fixed windows, as the name suggests, are sealed shut and so cannot be opened. Their main purpose is to let in natural light and to provide unobstructed views.
Understanding Operable Windows
Operable windows have movable sashes so they can be opened and closed. They can therefore be opened to let in air, especially in the summer for cooling ventilation, but kept closed in winter to maintain warmth.
Fixed Windows: Pros & Cons
Fixed windows provide a number of benefits:
- They allow in the maximum amount of natural light and provide unobstructed views of the exterior.
- Since the windows do not open, there are no gaps to let in outside air and so there is less heat loss in winter and less gain in summer. This results in superior energy efficiency due to less reliance on heating and air conditioning.
- The lack of openings also means fixed windows are more secure since forced entry is more difficult to achieve.
- As there are no moving parts, such as hinges, handles and catches, as well as no tracks, there is less to go wrong and so repairs and maintenance are minimal.
- Fixed windows are cheaper than operable ones due to having fewer component parts.
- They are more customisable than operable windows, with a huge variety of shapes and sizes.
Fixed windows, however, cannot be opened to provide extra ventilation and to control airflow. They can, therefore, result in rooms becoming stuffy and overheated. They also cannot be adjusted to reduce glare and so additional shading may be necessary.
Operable Windows: Pros & Cons
Operable windows have a number of advantages over fixed versions:
- Their key advantage is ventilation. They allow in cooling breezes in summer, improving the air quality and meaning there is less need for air conditioning, which will lower energy bills.
- You can open them as much or as little as required, thereby controlling the flow of air and sometimes being able to lock them in a partially open position for security and safety.
- Some tilt and turn models allow the cleaning of both window panes from inside the room, which is more convenient and safer than using a ladder.
- They provide a great sense of connection to the outdoors.
Compared to fixed windows, there are some drawbacks:
- Because the windows are not fully sealed, there is more potential for cold draughts and for a loss of warm air in winter, so they are slightly less energy efficient.
- The number of moving parts, such as hinges and handles, gives more potential for breakages so that repairs or replacements might be required.
- Depending on the locking system, operable windows might be less secure so that intruders can possibly force them open.
Types & Best Uses
Fixed windows come in a variety of styles. These include picture windows that generally have large panes of glass so you can enjoy the view, and architectural windows that are intended to make a statement and have a number of designs. Bay windows usually have a large fixed window in the centre and opening ones on the ends while bow windows are more curved and often include multiple panels for a panoramic effect.
Various types of operable windows are available, the most common being casement windows that are hinged at the side and swing outwards when opened. There are also awning windows that have hinges at the top and swing upwards, and sliding windows that move along a track behind a fixed panel when open and so take up little space.
Fixed windows are best used when you want to flood a room with natural light and to have uninterrupted views of the surroundings. This includes living rooms and dining areas where outside views can add to the ambience.
Operable windows are essential where good ventilation is required. Typically, you need to ventilate to get rid of steam in bathrooms and to clear cooking smells from kitchens.
Which One to Choose?
Each type of window has its advantages but also has some drawbacks as well. You therefore need to weigh up the various factors and decide which are most important for you. You must also consider the characteristics and needs of your home since these will likely dictate your choice.
In essence, it’s unlikely you will choose one type exclusively because both will have features you need. As a result, you will almost certainly opt for a combination of fixed and operable windows, with the main challenge being to decide which ones go in specific areas.
Fixed windows are cheaper to buy and offer more flexibility in design, greater security, reduced maintenance and better energy efficiency. Operable windows are necessary, however, to provide ventilation so you can control the moisture and overall comfort levels in your home.
A mixture of fixed and operable windows will give you the perfect combination of good looks, adequate ventilation, excellent energy efficiency and the best level of security. You need to take account of what you require in individual rooms as well as the appearance of your home.
We can help you make the choice because all our windows are custom-made to the highest quality so they fit perfectly and deliver what you need.
We can advise on the best selections and designs, can manufacture exactly to your specification and will install the windows correctly so they fulfil your requirements perfectly at a cost you can afford.
For the perfect combination of fixed and operable windows, get in touch and let us know what you need.
