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10 Most Common Types of Windows (2024 Guide)

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Author Image Written by Jessica Wimmer + 1 other Reviewed by: Mark Howey Updated 06/20/2024

Selecting windows is an important but sometimes overwhelming part of designing or updating your home. The best window brands offer various window styles and types to fit your home and budget, and each type serves a different purpose.

In this article, we’ve reviewed the 10 most common types of windows to help you understand your options and make the right choice for your project. We’ve included the pros and cons for each as well as average price of window replacement.


In this video from Home Depot, you’ll discover many different types of windows to choose from, as well as different types of window frames:


The 10 Most Common Types of Windows

Each window type serves a different purpose. Here are the most common types:

  • Awning windows
  • Bay and bow windows
  • Casement windows
  • Double-hung windows
  • Picture windows
  • Single-hung windows
  • Sliding windows
  • Skylights
  • Storm windows
  • Transom windows
New Windows in Home
Window Replacement

Window replacement typically costs $300–$2,000 per window, depending on the window type.

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View looking out a casement window from the inside of a house that has turquoise interior walls
Window Repair

Window repair typically costs $177–$623, but it can vary based on the type of repair.

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Window Cleaning Cost

Window cleaning typically costs $80–$430 for an entire home.

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Awning Windows

Awning windows have hinges that allow them to open outward from the top. They look like an awning when open, which is where they get their name. These windows are suitable for rainy climates because they can be open during storms, allowing fresh air to enter while protecting you from the elements.

It’s best to install awning windows on an upper floor—they can obstruct walkways when opened since they stick out horizontally. Awning windows cost an average of $100–$3,950 per window.

*Costs in this article sourced from contractor estimates used by Home Advisor or Angi

Pros and Cons of Awning Windows

Pros
Airtight seal when closed
Can remain open in the rain
Easy to operate
Cons
Can obstruct walkways when open
Mechanical parts can wear out

Bay and Bow Windows

Bay and bow windows are beautiful focal pieces that let in lots of natural light and provide sweeping views of your surroundings. These windows consist of multiple large panes of glass that protrude from the home. Bow windows are curved, while bay windows are more angled.

Bay windows can be either one window unit of three glass sections or framed, with three simpler windows. Bay windows usually cost between $900 and $7,100. Bow windows are made of at least five curved glass panes and cost a minimum of $1,500.

Pros and Cons of Bay and Bow Windows

Pros
Add interesting architectural detail
Allow lots of natural light
Provide extra square footage
Cons
Expensive to replace
Require special knowledge and skill to install

Casement Windows

Casement windows either open left or right using a crank, similar to a door. Their design makes it easy to control airflow when open, creating a strong, weathertight seal when closed. Casement windows can cost anywhere from $150 to $2,300 depending on your window measurements.

Pros and Cons of Casement Windows

Pros
Easy to control airflow
Simple operation
Weathertight seal promotes energy efficiency
Cons
Mechanical crank can wear out easily
Susceptible to weather damage if left open

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are another popular window type. We surveyed 1,000 homeowners and found that they were the second most popular selection behind custom windows, with 26.4% of homeowners choosing to install them.

Double-hung windows slide along a vertical track to open and close. They can be opened from the top or bottom and offer good ventilation and easy cleaning.

Double-hung windows have a classic look that can fit a range of home styles. They’re generally easy and affordable to install, costing $150–$650 each.

Pros and Cons of Double-Hung Windows

Pros
Affordable pricing
Easily installed
Widely available
Cons
Can be difficult to operate
Require regular maintenance

Picture Windows

Picture windows are fixed, meaning they don’t open. Though they don’t provide airflow, they have excellent weather resistance and create unobstructed views of your landscape. They’re made of one glass unit fitted into the frame, like a picture.

Picture windows can come in a unique shape or size and often need to be customized which makes picture windows difficult to replace. They’re affordable since they have no moving parts and range in price from $325–$788.

Pros and Cons of Picture Windows

Pros
Can be customized to fit your space
Less expensive than other window types
Offer an unobstructed view
Cons
Prone to excessive heat gain
Don’t provide ventilation

Single-Hung Windows

Single-hung windows are made of two panes. The bottom portion slides up and down to open, while the upper one remains fixed. Single-hung windows are one of the most popular window types. They’re affordable and easy to install, making them a sound choice for those on a budget. They usually cost $158–$1,700.

Pros and Cons of Single-Hung Windows

Pros
Affordable
Straightforward installation
Widely available
Cons
Less energy-efficient
Poor ventilation

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are similar to single-hung windows except that they open horizontally. They provide a fair amount of ventilation, and there aren’t any breakable mechanical parts. Standard-size slider windows range from $150–$800. Full-size sliding glass patio doors are more costly, at $600–$5,000.

Pros and Cons of Sliding Windows

Pros
Durable and easy to operate
Inexpensive to install
Low-maintenance
Cons
Challenging to clean from the outside
Frame can obstruct views

Skylights

Skylights are built into the roof and are a great solution for those seeking to add natural light to a room with limited wall space. Skylights can be fixed or vented. Though most skylights don’t open completely, they can provide extra airflow.

Skylight installation can be expensive because it typically involves roofing, framing, and wall construction. The average cost is $150–$5,000. Pricing depends on whether you opt for a fixed skylight or a more complicated installation.

Pros and Cons of Skylights

Pros
Can provide passive solar heat
Interesting architectural detail
Lots of natural light
Cons
Difficult to clean and maintain
Faulty installation can cause leaks and roof damage

Storm Windows

The best storm windows come in permanent or removable options. They’re usually installed inside or outside regular windows to provide an extra layer of protection and insulation. They’re very affordable, averaging $90–$400. However, these costs can add up if you’re protecting all of the windows on your home, totaling around $5,000.

Pros and Cons of Storm Windows

Pros
Eliminate condensation and reduce noise
Provide protection from harsh weather conditions
Reduce heating and cooling costs
Cons
External installation can be challenging
Require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain functional

Transom Windows

Transom windows are placed above doors and were originally designed to allow air and light to pass between rooms, even if the doors were closed. They’re often rectangular or semicircular windows placed on top of a door or another window in historic homes. Because they’re so high up and promote airflow, they’re the go-to choice for bathroom windows. Most window installers charge $200–$650 for transom window installation.

Pros and Cons of Transom Windows

Pros
Are stylish and architecturally interesting
Increase natural sunlight and airflow
Provide increased priavcy for bedrooms and bathrooms
Cons
Are difficult to reach
Don’t open or close

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Specialty Window Types

There are also several specialty window types. We’ve detailed them below.
Arched windows: Also called half-moon windows, arched windows are rectangular with a rounded semi-circle at the top. They let more natural light into your home and offer a timeless look.
Custom windows: Custom windows can fit practically any size or shape. They’re a great option if you have a space where you want windows, but standard sizes won’t fit.
Egress windows: Egress windows are designed to open easily and are legally required in bedrooms, basements, and habitable attics as an emergency exit in the event of a fire or another disaster. Egress windows on average cost $3,500.
Hopper windows: Hopper windows are similar to awning windows. However, they open inwards from the top rather than outwards from the bottom.