Replacing your windows can offer several advantages, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. Whether you are experiencing a draft or a leak, you’re looking to enhance your house’s curb appeal, you want to improve your energy efficiency, or you’re looking to increase your home’s overall value, sliding windows can be an excellent choice.
Sliding windows are an often overlooked option when it comes to window replacements. Although sliding glass doors are typically only used for a patio door and picture windows are primarily used in western-facing rooms, sliding windows are a versatile choice for any room. If you’re looking for windows that fit the diverse needs of your home, look no further: the Rolox Home Service team is here to help install your new sliding windows.
What is a Sliding Window?
At its most basic, a sliding window has at least one panel that glides from side to side in both directions. Often called gliding windows or sliders, a sliding window tends to come in a clean, contemporary look that is visually appealing in nearly any home.
There are multiple types of sliding windows. Here are just a few options:
- A single slider has one fixed pane, as well as one pane that moves side to side.
- A double slider has two to three panes of glass, two of which can move.
- A three-pane slider tends to have one large picture window in the center, with a sliding window added onto either side.
With that being said, let’s dive into some of the most significant advantages of sliding windows.
1. Sliding windows are easy to use
A sliding window typically glides on a simple roller, helping them open and close easily, essentially with nothing more than the push of a finger. This also helps to keep their maintenance needs down because there are fewer moving parts, and no springs or pulleys that need to be replaced.
2. Sliding windows optimize natural light
The design of a sliding window prioritizes oversized glass panels while including minimal framing. This means that your natural light and outdoor views are essentially unobstructed! Particularly if you’re adding a large sliding window, you’re leveling up a traditional picture window into something even better.
3. Sliding windows improve ventilation
Due to their streamlined, minimal design, sliding windows are usually able to open fully. This allows them to let in significant amounts of fresh air that a double-hung window simply doesn’t allow for. On some styles — like a three-pane slider — you can even open up two window panels simultaneously, allowing for the best possible ventilation.
4. Sliding windows are surprisingly affordable
Even though sliding windows tend to be larger than many other window types, they are still a very budget-friendly choice because of the way they’re constructed. Just like a sliding glass door, slider windows only need a track to glide along in order to open and close. This is a much cheaper alternative to the complicated pulley system that is found within double-hung windows!
When Should You Choose Sliding Windows?
With their extensive versatility, sliding windows can bring these advantages into practically any home. Still, there are a few more popular uses:
- If you live in a smaller home, gliders can make your common areas appear more spacious by bringing in an unobstructed outdoor view.
- If you have a room with a low ceiling, a sliding window might be beneficial. They’re often lower and wider than a more traditional window design, making them especially ideal for a room with a low ceiling!
- If you’re looking for a more out-of-the-box ventilation solution, like a condominium or duplex with only front and rear windows, then sliding windows might be a great choice.
- If you have a sizable room that you’re struggling to ground in a design, a sliding window might be the missing piece. This could be the perfect fit for a three-pane slider because this extra wide design could bring in more balance.
When in doubt, add a sliding window to a room that is used regularly, where you will be able to enjoy all of the natural light and fresh air it brings in!
Are Sliding Windows Right For Your Home?
Windows are a big investment, so you want to feel confident that the windows you choose will fit in with your personal style, your home’s usability, and existing designs. You also want to feel certain that each window has been carefully and professionally installed in order to maximize the benefits and beauty of your new sliding windows.
No matter what you choose, the Rolox Home Service team is here to partner with you through every step of the window installation process.
