Pros and Cons of Installing Sliding Windows in Your House

Pros and Cons of Installing Sliding Windows in Your House

Almost all the windows available today have undergone significant improvements over time. Each one offers benefits that can convince you to decide to choose it for your home’s windows. One of the most popular choices among homeowners lately is the sliding windows. Sliding windows are designed quite simply. Also called a slider window, a sliding window consists of windows positioned side-by-side that slide horizontally along the top and bottom tracks. They have a few style variations. In some styles, there is a fixed window and a slide window that can move. In other styles, both window slides.

Slider Window Configurations

In the most common configuration, one pane of glass is fixed and the slide window pane moves. In another configuration you can choose from, each of the glass panes in one window frame is a slide window that moves past each other. Other setups include one fixed pane of glass in the middle and a slide window on either side of the fixed pane.

How a Slider Window Differs from Other Window Types

The simplicity of its design and operation is one of the biggest differences sliding windows have over other window types. A slider window uses less hardware. It doesn’t need cranks, pulleys, or springs to operate unlike other windows such as sash window, casement window, and awning window. A single-hung window is a sash window that consists of a lower movable panel or sash and a fixed upper panel. The other type of sash window is the double-hung window. It is currently the most commonly used window type in homes. A double-hung window has two movable sashes; the lower sash slides down and the upper sash slides upward. The sliding action of a sash window is made possible by weights or springs that provide a counterbalance. In old designs where weights are used, the weights are hidden in wall pockets behind the case moldings. In newer designs, the springs are more commonly concealed in the side tracks. The second most common window, casement windows crank open horizontally on hinges mounted on one side located at the top and bottom. This side of the window pivots open like a door. Awning windows, like casement windows, use mechanical cranks that open and close them. The top edge is fixed in place as the window opens from the bottom pivoting outward and up.

Pros and Cons of Sliding Windows

Knowing the pros and cons of having a slider window can help you determine whether it is the right window for you. Check out the following advantages: 1. Sliding windows use minimal exterior hardware compared to double-hung windows, casement windows, and awning windows. Being built with fewer parts is a great advantage for homeowners like you. It translates to low maintenance and cost-effectiveness. Mechanisms such as the cranks used in casement and awning windows are subject to wear and have a high failure rate. Likewise, counterbalance weights employed in double-hung windows can wear out and sash cords can break. You will not experience the same concerns with slider windows. 2. Not relying on mechanical cranks, pulleys, or springs that all wear over some time means sliding windows can be very durable. The glazing used in this window style adds to its durability. 3. Sliding windows have no frame that breaks up the center of the glass panel that allows for a better view and natural light than conventional windows. This is one of the most common reasons homeowners choose this window style. 4. Your options with using quality glazing with your slider window can give you excellent energy efficiency. Using low emissivity or double pane glass can greatly improve the thermal efficiency performance of your home that results in lower energy bills and a higher comfort level. 5. Sliding the window to the side instead of having to be pushed up to open is much easier. It involves little effort and is much more convenient. This could be a big factor especially as you get older. Meanwhile, here are the few disadvantages of using sliding windows: 1. Cleaning the inside of the window can be very easy but not exactly the outside. Cleaning the slider window’s external surface can be quite challenging especially during cold winter months. Other types of conventional windows can be lifted and tilted making them more easily accessible for cleaning. If keeping your window frequently cleaned is your top priority, it’ll be better to choose other window styles, particularly casement windows. 2. The tracks of the slider window tend to get filled with dirt and debris requiring you to regularly clean them to ensure smooth sliding action. Clearly, the advantages you have with installing sliding windows in your home outweigh the window’s disadvantages. If you are convinced sliding windows are the right windows for you, contact New Town Windows and Doors to help you with your windows installation.