Window Options

Explore Popular Window Styles

General information to help homeowners describe what they are looking for. Diagrams are simplified illustrations, not product drawings.

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Casement Windows

How it typically opens: Hinged at the side and swung outward, usually with a crank or lever operator.
Where it is commonly used: Often used in living areas, bedrooms and locations where an unobstructed view is preferred.
Ventilation characteristics: The sash can generally open across most of the window opening, which may allow a wide airflow path.
Design considerations: Consider the swing direction, adjacent walkways, screens, hardware finish and how the unit will be cleaned.

Questions to ask an installer

Which direction will the sash swing, and is there clearance outside?
What operator hardware and locking points are included?
How is the weatherstripping designed and serviced?

Awning Windows

How it typically opens: Hinged along the top of the frame and pushed outward from the bottom.
Where it is commonly used: Frequently used above or below other windows, in basements, bathrooms and kitchens.
Ventilation characteristics: Provides a partial opening that may stay open during light rain, depending on installation and exposure.
Design considerations: Consider opening height, reach for the operator, and how the unit pairs with fixed or picture units.

Questions to ask an installer

How far does the sash project when fully open?
Can the unit be reached comfortably for operation and cleaning?
Is it suitable for the intended exposure on this elevation?

Sliding Windows

How it typically opens: Sashes slide horizontally along tracks; some configurations have one fixed sash.
Where it is commonly used: Common in wider openings, bedrooms, basements and rooms facing decks or walkways.
Ventilation characteristics: Airflow is limited to the portion of the opening that slides clear, typically about half of the unit.
Design considerations: Consider track cleaning, screen placement, sash removal for maintenance and the width of the opening.

Questions to ask an installer

How are the tracks drained and cleaned?
Can the sashes be removed without special tools?
What hardware secures the sash when closed?

Bay and Bow Windows

How it typically opens: The assembly combines fixed and operable units; venting depends on the configuration chosen.
Where it is commonly used: Often found in living rooms and dining rooms where extra sill depth and a wider view are wanted.
Ventilation characteristics: Ventilation comes from the operable flankers, so the layout determines available airflow.
Design considerations: Consider structural support, roof or seat construction, insulation details and interior trim work.

Questions to ask an installer

How will the assembly be supported and flashed?
Which units in the assembly open?
What interior and exterior finishing work is included in the scope?

Picture Windows

How it typically opens: Does not open. The sash is fixed within the frame.
Where it is commonly used: Used in living spaces, stairwells and gable walls, and often paired with operable units.
Ventilation characteristics: No ventilation is provided by the unit itself; pair it with operable windows where airflow is needed.
Design considerations: Consider glass size and weight, egress requirements elsewhere in the room, and glare or solar exposure.

Questions to ask an installer

Does the room still meet applicable egress requirements?
What glazing package is proposed for this exposure?
How will a large unit be delivered and installed?

Custom Replacement Windows

How it typically opens: Depends on the design; may be fixed, hinged, sliding or a combination.
Where it is commonly used: Used for arched, angled, transom or heritage-style openings, and unusual sizes.
Ventilation characteristics: Determined by the configuration selected for the opening.
Design considerations: Consider lead times, measuring accuracy, matching existing sightlines and any heritage or condominium rules.

Questions to ask an installer

Who is responsible for final measurements?
What is the expected lead time for a custom unit?
Are there local approvals, permits or condominium rules that apply?

Replacement Considerations

Condition of the existing unit

Operation, hardware condition, seal condition, frame material and visible deterioration are commonly reviewed during a site visit.

Installation method

Retrofit and full-frame approaches differ in scope, interior and exterior finishing, and how the opening is prepared.

Openings and egress

Some rooms have opening-size requirements under applicable building codes. An installer can review what applies to a specific home.

Scope and finishing

Clarify who handles trim, capping, caulking, disposal of old units, permits where required and post-installation cleanup.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Glazing packages, spacer design, gas fills, low-emissivity coatings, frame material and installation quality can all affect the thermal performance of a window assembly. Product labelling and manufacturer specifications describe the tested performance of a specific unit.

Installation Questions to Ask

Who performs the installation, and are they employees or subcontractors?
What licensing, insurance and WSIB coverage applies to the crew?
What is included in the written quote, and what is excluded?
What warranty applies to the product, and separately to the labour?
How are measurements confirmed before ordering?
What is the expected timeline from order to installation?
How is the work site protected and cleaned up?
What is the deposit, payment schedule and cancellation policy?

This page provides general information only and is not individualized professional, construction or engineering advice.

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