As you know, a beautifully designed window is one of the main elements of the interior, the harmony of its combination with the interior decoration determines how well the overall style of the room will be respected.
Therefore, if you plan to install plastic windows in your house, then when concluding a contract for their purchase, special attention, in addition to selecting the necessary technical characteristics, should be paid to the design. After all, a home for a modern person, immersed in the incredible rhythm of city life, represents a kind of quiet haven that everyone strives for at the end of a working day.
And if in the old days windows served only as a light-transmitting component covering the window opening (remember the old Soviet models), then modern windows are technically more “advanced” designs, equipped, among other things, with fittings and additional accessories that elevate the concept of comfort to new level .
Most people do not even imagine that any design solutions can be used in modern plastic windows. However, experts in this field are of the opinion that the appearance of window structures can be almost anything. Basically, the possibilities depend on the financial wealth of the customer.
Panoramic windows
Panoramic windows are glazing over a large area, opening up a wide view and erasing the internal boundaries of the room. The room seems to continue further. It makes sense to install panoramic windows in a private house if there is a pleasant view behind them. When the owner will only see garages, a planting with a gas pipe or an abandoned office building, it is better to choose a different type of window.
Panoramic window.
Design and features
The design of panoramic windows can be from one wall to another or from floor to ceiling, or it can completely replace one wall. This visually expands the boundaries of the room - the eyes do not “rest” against the wall. There are house designs where three walls are made of glass. Of course, such a decision requires a competent design so that the house is durable and the roof is installed on a reliable foundation.
But what a view will open in the morning and evening! Through such an opening you can admire beautiful sunrises and sunsets, watch birds and trees, which is very peaceful. Naturally, you will have to take care of means of closing from prying eyes.
Panoramic windows are most often installed in the living room or bedroom. To prevent a large glazing area from leading to high heat loss in winter, it is important to choose designs with numerous glasses and a multi-chamber frame filled with gas, which slows down heat transfer.
Varieties
There are blind windows with no possibility of ventilation. They should be installed in a private house if there are other ways to bring in fresh air (an air conditioning system with a duct to the outside or a ventilation system). When there are no other methods of ventilation, it is better to choose sliding structures. Based on the method of opening, these types of windows are divided into three types.
PSK panoramic windows
This is a sliding system in which the sashes move in grooves. This type allows you to open the space to the length of one section. For example, if the length of the glass is 4 m, and the width of each sash is 1 m, then in the middle it will be possible to open the window by 2 m. This will create a convenient passage to the terrace, balcony or access to the pool.
PSK window installed in a private house.
The PSK design has complex mechanics that allow you to tilt the sash for ventilation without opening the passage itself. This option is convenient when you need to bring in fresh air, but you don’t want a child or pet to go out onto the balcony.
But due to the complex mechanical nature of the fittings, PSK systems tend to become loose over time . Even during ventilation, you will need to lift one of the segments to place it in the grooves, and not everyone can handle this. The design of the fittings of this type of window is designed for low weight, so they are not suitable for glazing a large area.
PSK window fittings.
HS sliding panoramic windows
Due to its simpler design with a minimum number of mechanisms, the HS system is the most wear-resistant and durable . There is nothing to loosen here. Even increased rigidity allows the fittings to withstand loads of up to 500 kg, so this type is suitable for the largest panoramic openings.
HS window installed in a private house.
In addition to the sliding function, the system supports tilting the sash for ventilation. When the window segment is tilted back, it is no longer possible to move the sash to the side, which increases operational safety and reduces the likelihood of breakage. Most often, this type of panoramic windows is installed in private houses.
HS window fittings.
FS sliding portal windows
The system involves bringing the window sashes together by folding them, like an accordion. The segments are adjacent to each other, which allows you to open a huge portal for passage. Essentially, you can remove the entire glass wall to the side. The number of sashes in windows of this type is allowed from 2 to 10.
FS window installed in a private house.
They move on steel rollers. The system can be shifted to the left or right, depending on the availability of free space and the owner’s preferences, but such a decision is made at the installation stage. Then it is no longer possible to change the direction of the displacement.
FS window fittings.
One of the disadvantages of the FS system is its high tendency to loosen. Since there are many moving parts, it is inferior in strength to others . Shifting a huge block of doors to the side also requires a lot of effort. Another gust of strong wind can spontaneously close or move the doors, since in the open position they are not fixed in any way.
Taking into account the above, we note that the likelihood of drafts is greatest in FS systems. Therefore, those who are afraid of any breeze (propensity to catch a cold quickly), but want to have panoramic windows in a private house, should choose the HS type of windows. They have fewer joints and opportunities for wind passage. It is also important to use any system carefully, since sudden and rough movements can lead to breakdown of complex mechanisms. But if you follow the manufacturers’ advice from the operating instructions, then panoramic windows will last a long time in private homes.
Triangular windows
Previously, this type of window was used only in roof spaces. Due to their small size, they let in little light and provided poor visibility in the attic. But gradually the fashion for triangular windows increased and now they have increased significantly in size. Many modifications have appeared and are installed in residential premises.
Triangular window.
Design and features
The triangular shape itself makes them convenient for installation in the walls of the upper floors of a private house with uneven roof contours. Due to the protruding sharp peak, it is possible to make maximum use of the usable area under the roof for glazing and transmission of daylight. Such products are made from plastic or wood. Although the total glazing area can be any, it is better to divide large structures into segments to increase rigidity.
Among the features are triangular windows with a right angle on the right or left (90 degrees) and isosceles, where all sides are the same in length. Now there are advanced versions of triangular windows with cut off corners, where in fact there are four or six corners. The choice of shape depends on the design features of the roof and the location of the opening.
Triangular window with corner cut off.
A right-angled triangle is most often installed under the slope, which naturally fits into the existing structure. These types of windows can be installed in pairs in a mirrored position, which increases design creativity and increases light transmission. Equilateral versions are more suitable for attics or dormer openings.
Triangular windows are also used in combination with other forms of glazing to maximize the use of roof space. They can complement trapezoidal or rectangular structures, which is especially convenient in private houses with a complex roof shape. These combinations are often used by architects and designers to improve the overall appearance of a home.
Combined triangular window.
Varieties
Triangular windows are divided according to the method of opening into three main types:
1. Hinged windows are windows with right angles, where hinges are provided on the flat vertical side.
Hinged triangular window.
2. Folding - most often used in isosceles structures. The hinges are placed on the bottom and the sash tilts down (it is important to provide a limiter so as not to break the glass). The fanlight option is theoretically possible in structures with right angles and it all depends on the designer’s imagination.
Hinged triangular window.
3. Tilt and turn - provide a vertical or horizontal axis on which the sash is tilted by turning. Can be used in any type of triangular windows.
Tilt-and-turn triangular window.
In addition to three varieties according to the opening method, triangular windows and blind types are produced. When the glazing area is large, the opening is divided into several segments and then part of the window can be made blank, and part with opening sashes of a rectangular or square type.
Triangular window with a large glazing area.
Window shapes
As for the shape of the window opening, there are both familiar models and more original solutions. Windows can take the form of large glazing or serve as an additional decoration of the room. For example, unusual arched frames serve as a decorative element for a bedroom or bathroom. Originally shaped windows can highlight the interior of any room, making it more sophisticated and unusual.
Small semicircular and arched windows can be installed in the roof structure, which will fill the attic or attic space with natural light. Also in the attic you can place special ceiling (dormer) windows, which will allow you to admire the sunset and the starry night sky. Of course, we should not forget about simple rectangular structures that can be used both in the bedroom and other rooms.
Dormer windows
Windows located not under the roof, but directly in the roof itself are called dormer windows. They are used to supply light and fresh air to rooms located under the roof.
Dormer window in the house.
Design and features
Since skylights replace part of the roof, they must be strong enough to withstand snow and wind loads instead of tiles, ondulin or slate. Their surface is more susceptible to moisture, and therefore the structure must have increased tightness so that precipitation does not penetrate into the room.
Manufacturers provide roof windows with improved sound absorption, otherwise sleeping in the attic room would be impossible during the rain. When choosing this type of window, it is important to focus on their strength and tightness, and not cost , otherwise there will be inevitable problems in operation.
Varieties
Dormer windows vary in size and shape, as well as material and number of sashes. There are blind and open options. This type of glazing is also divided into subcategories, depending on the angle of inclination of the roof where installation is provided:
1. For vertical roofs.
Dormer window in a vertical roof.
2. For flat roofs.
Dormer window in a flat roof.
3. For sloping roofs.
Dormer window in a sloping roof.
The difference between roof windows also exists in the method of opening.
1. The hatch can swing open like a regular window along the side axis to the left or right.
2. Another option is to open the window on the middle axis-jumper.
3. There are combined systems, where one leaf opens along the upper axis, and the other along the middle axis.
But most often, buyers choose the option of opening the sash by turning it in the middle on horizontal hinges. The mechanism allows you to fix it at any angle. If it rains unexpectedly, water will not flow into the room.
There are types of dormer windows for a private home that transform into a mini-balcony. The design consists of two halves that open up and down. At the bottom, a small restrictor grille is lined up on the sides, preventing a child or pet from going onto the roof. The upper flap is positioned horizontally, forming a small canopy.
Roof window-balcony.
So, while indoors, you can find yourself outdoors. Depending on the size of the attic window, the user can sit and even stand at full height on such a mini-balcony. If you arrange the balcony windows in pairs, you will get enough space for two to relax in the fresh air.
If there is a rest area on the roof, then high roof windows can be equipped with swinging technology for free access to the terrace. Here, too, a type of glazing with two sashes is used.
Existing methods of opening windows.
The way a plastic window opens also plays an important role in creating the individual style of a room. Modern PVC structures have the following opening systems:
- folding;
- rotary;
- tilt and turn (combined);
- sliding
The most convenient, of course, is combined. If necessary, this system allows the window sash to either tilt vertically or work horizontally. This solution is especially advantageous for large double-glazed windows, as it allows the use of fittings in windows that can withstand significant weight of the structure.
If planning to install a plastic solution in a standard window opening, a potential buyer can choose the option with two opening sashes. The advantages of such a light-transmitting design are obvious: it is easier to clean, and in the warm season, with two doors open, the room is filled with fresh air faster.
Cornice windows
At the junction of the roof and the wall, windows of complex shapes are also installed, which are called cornice windows. Often this arrangement requires more complex preparatory work, but the space under the roof becomes much more comfortable.
Cornice window in a private house.
Design and features
By design, cornice windows are a combination of conventional vertical windows and dormer windows. They are joined at the same angle as the roof to the wall, so they are made to order for a specific project. Such models are suitable for both residential and commercial buildings. The design assumes increased tightness and sound insulation, since the glazing endures the same negative factors as the roof itself.
Due to their specific shape, cornice windows can make the design of a private house more original, which is why architects often offer such solutions to those who want something unusual. This design provides more light than separate skylights or vertical windows.
The spacious view through the opening visually expands the room and helps get rid of the feeling of a “pressing ceiling”. They provide more light and allow you to grow flowers in such rooms. If the supporting structure of the building is strong enough, then through such a window you can provide access to a small balcony built under the roof itself.
Varieties
Cornice windows are divided among themselves according to the method of opening, where there are:
1. Lifting.
2. Swivel and tilt.
3. Swing.
Cornice casement window.
When choosing a method for opening a eaves window, it is worth considering the location of the nearest parts of the roof so that they do not interfere or break the glass. Lifting options will best protect the room from precipitation if you left the house and left the sash open.
In general, cornice windows are a very interesting design option, but they require complex preparation for installation , because the junction of the roof and the wall is a critical area. Illiterate intervention in this area can lead to large heat losses or leakage, which is why the cost of installing eaves windows is the highest.
French windows
The fashion for such windows came from France, or rather from its south - the province of Provence. Local residents wanted to have spacious houses filled with light, and therefore came up with a method of glazing with a significant area. Today, such solutions are produced from wood, metal and plastic. French windows can be from floor to ceiling and installed not only on flat walls, but also in faceted wall structures of private houses.
French window.
Unlike panoramic windows, French ones have many lintels . This slightly impairs the view, but increases the rigidity of the structure and makes the design of the house more interesting. Such windows better withstand wind loads.
French windows outside.
In a private house, French windows are installed in the following places:
- on the terraces;
- in winter gardens;
- on balconies;
- in greenhouses;
- on the verandas.
Through such a window you can provide access to the street (from the veranda or terrace). To do this, they are equipped with swing or sliding systems. The height of the opening can be the same as a standard door or from floor to ceiling. But the higher the glazing area, the greater the heat loss, so for such rooms it is necessary to provide additional heating.
General information.
Technological progress does not stand still. The same can be said about windows. Innovative technological solutions used in the production of PVC windows make it possible to realize the most daring design ideas. Today, plastic windows of non-standard shape are in increasing demand. This is especially true for so-called luxury housing. In this case, the design of light-transmitting structures may include, in addition to unusually shaped contours, the installation of window handles inlaid with chips of semi-precious or precious stone. Yes, yes, there are such delights.
Also, a good design move would be to paint the window frame in a color that best matches the color scheme of the interior. After all, the standard white color no longer suits anyone. As an alternative to painting, you can choose the lamination method. At the same time, the glass itself can also be made either in a simple style or with a stained glass pattern applied.
In addition to giving an unusual look and elegance to the window structure itself, some designers change the shape of the opening in which it is installed. For example, bay or corner windows look quite unusual, drawing additional attention to themselves. At the same time, plastic windows of this design visually make the area of the room larger, simultaneously increasing the glazing area, and therefore the illumination.
Having been puzzled by the selection of the optimal design for a plastic window, special attention should be paid to the window sill. A modern solution installed under a window can be made of various materials (read the corresponding article entitled “How to choose a window sill”) and have its own special dimensions. The purpose of the window sill can be different - from the banal storage of books and growing flowers to the organization of a comfortable place for reading with good lighting.
Summarizing all of the above, we can state that thanks to technological advances in the industry of window construction production, the range of solutions possible for implementation has increased, elevating the design of plastic windows to a completely new level of development. The advanced technologies used make a modern PVC window an important component involved in creating comfort and coziness in a room, which in the past could only be dreamed of.
Corner windows
A modern type of glazing that involves connecting two rectangular windows located on different walls in one place - in the very corner of the house. The solution is very creative and is often used by designers to give the building a more interesting look.
Corner window.
There may be a small stand at the junction at right angles. There are options for corner windows without it - then it creates the feeling of a portal to the street and it looks even more unusual. These windows allow a lot of light into the room.
Corner window without side post.
Window design in a private house: choosing windows by room type
The choice of window is also influenced by the room in which it should be located. If the main element in the room is a TV or computer, then there is no need for a lot of light; you can limit yourself to a small window. As for the children's room and living room, it is better to give preference to large windows that give a beautiful view of the surrounding garden plot.
A panoramic window looks ideal in the dining room, but in the bathroom a standard or narrow opening is enough. In the kitchen there should be enough lighting for the housewife to cook comfortably, but in the bedroom you can create an intimate atmosphere by installing a small window. However, a panoramic window will also look good in the bedroom; the main thing is to provide thick curtains that hide the interior space from the sun's rays and prying eyes.
Arched and semi-arched windows
After classic rectangular windows, arched options take second place in popularity. They appeared in ancient times and were installed in castles and palaces. This form perfectly emphasizes the architecture and makes a private house stand out from others. Today, arched windows are made of plastic profiles, metal or wood. They can be either solid with a single glass or divided into segments.
Arched window in a private house.
There are semi-arched options, divided vertically.
Semi-arched window
This type is often used on upper floors. The paired symmetrical installation of such windows at a small distance from each other also expands the possibilities of exterior design.
Round windows
Round windows are an excellent tool for an architect to turn even a simple house into an interesting structure. Small round openings, reminiscent of a porthole, are relevant for under-roof spaces. Huge round windows are suitable for the bedroom, living room, nursery, above the entrance to the house and in the staircase leading to other floors.
By design, round windows can be solid or divided inside by vertical and horizontal lintels. In the first case, a huge single leaf swings open on a horizontal or vertical axis.
Round solid window.
In the second case, any design according to the opening method is possible (rectangular or square segment, semicircle at the top, etc.). There are options for a semicircular window with vertical division.
Round split window.
The paired symmetrical installation of such windows also expands design possibilities.
