Selecting the right windows for your home transcends aesthetics. Windows influence your comfort, your home’s energy efficiency, and your property's overall value. Our ultimate guide to common residential window types will help you navigate the expansive world of common residential window types.
Are you interested in learning more about window opening pole? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Before we discuss the various types of windows, it’s important to understand why you need them. Energy efficiency is a top reason to seek window replacements. Windows over a couple of decades old don’t have the technological advancements in energy efficiency, such as low-E glass or argon gas between the panes. These features could trim your utility bills considerably.
Old windows are also more likely to have warped structures or harbor rot and mold, compromising the window's structural integrity or signaling excessive moisture and poor insulation. Windows that stick, refuse to stay open, or admit drafts also need a change.
Correcting past mistakes and fixing architectural aberrations are additional reasons to consider window replacement. Windows that a prior owner put in incorrectly or installed to chase a fleeting trend may simply look wrong now. Choose replacement windows in a style that will endure to preserve the value of your investment and your home’s aesthetic appeal.
Windows differ in appearance, operation, and use. Learning about common residential window types will help you match a style of window to your preferences and your home’s needs.
Double-hung windows combine classic style with optimal functionality. Both the upper and lower sashes of these windows slide vertically, offering unparalleled ventilation. Most new double-hung windows also offer easy tilt-in maintenance—a feature that discerning homeowners appreciate.
Single-hung windows impart a traditional visage with a fixed upper sash and a movable lower sash. Their simplicity is their strength. They offer ease of use and a timeless appeal at a cost-effective price point.
Casement windows swing open like a door, with hinges on one side, to offer an uninterrupted view and maximum airflow. They exude an air of sophistication while serving as a functional component that can significantly enhance energy efficiency with their tight sealing closures. They’re great for hard-to-reach places and provide panoramic views.
Sliding windows move horizontally on a track. They bring a sleek and modern feel to your home’s exterior. These windows are perfect for contemporary homes. They unobtrusively offer expansive views and abundant natural light without consuming too much space.
Bow windows project an elegant curve outward from your home, creating a stunning panoramic effect. Comprised of multiple windows adjoined at an angle, bow windows introduce additional space and light and act as an incredible focal point.
Bay windows provide both a spacious feel and a dramatic extension to any room. Typically consisting of a central fixed window with angled vented windows flanking it, bay windows create a cozy alcove inside while providing a significant boost to curb appeal.
Garden windows invite the outdoors into your home. Their box-like design juts out from the wall, providing space for plants, herbs, or decorative items bathed in natural light.
Picture windows frame your view in an uninterrupted canvas of glass, converting your wall into a living portrait of the outdoors. These fixed windows bathe your space in natural light and capture expansive, scenic vistas. Casement windows often flank them for ventilation purposes.
Awning windows have hinges at the top and open outward. They can provide ventilation even during a light rain due to their unique structure. These windows are suitable for climates where ventilation is as crucial as keeping out the elements. Often placed higher on walls for privacy or combined with larger stationary windows, awning windows add a touch of utilitarian charm.
Transom windows introduce both light and architectural interest. Positioned above doorways or other windows, they add a decorative touch that can enhance both your home’s exterior and interior styling. Traditionally, transoms were operational to help with ventilation. But today, they also serve as a testament to the blending of form and function in design.
Clerestory windows, located high on walls close to the roofline, capture daylight at its zenith, filling interiors with soft, natural illumination. These windows promote privacy while providing ambient light. Long poles that reach up to their heights can open and close them for passive heating or cooling. Functional and stylish, clerestory windows are the silent custodians of light in modern design.
Skylights offer an avenue for natural light to pour in from above, illuminating spaces with the sky's ever-changing beauty. Whether flat, domed, vented, or fixed, skylights transform unused roof space into a source of daylight and night sky views. Skylight windows can dramatically change a space and are visually spectacular and functionally sound.
Egress windows are the unsung heroes of both safety and aesthetics. They provide a reliable escape route in case of emergencies and allow ample light into otherwise dark basements. Designed to comply with building codes, these windows offer peace of mind and style to lower-level living spaces. Installing egress windows helps ensure your home is up to code and brimming with natural light, making it a smart and savvy design choice.
A significant investment in high-quality windows can quickly prove worthless if you don’t have the windows installed correctly. Professional installation ensures functionality, durability, energy efficiency, and building code compliance. Entrusting your window installation to seasoned experts is essential, as window replacement professionals possess the mastery to avoid costly errors. They can provide precise sealing and fitting aligned with the industry's best practices. They can also navigate the labyrinth of local building regulations deftly. Moreover, they can provide advice and information about the common types of residential windows that might be best for your home’s style and your budget.
Reece Builders installs replacement windows for Winston-Salem, NC, homeowners. Our team of installation professionals has a legacy of meticulous work, backed with glowing testimonials from hundreds of satisfied clients that speak volumes about our commitment to excellence.
The right installation is every bit as important as the perfect window. Both work to secure your comfort and the enduring value of your investment in replacement windows and your home as a whole. We invite you to experience superior service from our dedicated specialists who stand ready to enhance your home’s character and performance.
Eyelet curtains can add a touch of luxury to any room. If you’re thinking about adding an eyelet curtain pole to your window setting, but you’re wondering how to decide the best option and size for your home, then find everything you need to know in our expert buying guide from the Curtain Pole Store.
To find the perfect pole for your eyelet curtains and create a stunning setting in your home, there are various things to consider: the pole diameter, colour, length and style. You’ll also need to understand how eyelet curtain poles are fitted and what maintenance is required to keep them looking at their best. Find everything you need to know to make the best choice on your next purchase by reading our extensive eyelet curtain pole guide below.
The eyelet curtain pole, often deemed a contemporary choice, is unique since it doesn’t use metal rings. Instead your beautiful eyelet curtains will be threaded to and hung directly from the pole itself, producing a deep fold which creates a luxurious window frame.
If you’re wondering whether eyelet curtain poles are a good choice compared to standard metal curtain poles, then there are many benefits to consider. Eyelet curtain poles offer an effortless way to draw your curtains to flood your home with natural light or close them for peace and privacy, since they don’t rely on curtain rings or hooks to attach the curtain material to.
Using an eyelet curtain pole can also be a more affordable option, since you’ll likely need less curtain material due to the fact there’s no requirement to gather the fabric across the heading of the pole.
So, if you’re looking for an affordable, effortless and luxurious way to decorate your window frame, an eyelet curtain pole may be your best choice.
Choosing your eyelet curtain pole: style & colour
When it comes to choosing the best style for your eyelet curtain pole, one which compliments your decor perfectly, it really comes down to your personal interior design taste and your chosen colour scheme.
An important initial consideration is whether or not you want to match the colour of your curtain pole to your eyelets, or even to your curtains. The trick is to either create a definite contrast between the pole and eyelets, or match them both exactly, otherwise your window setting can end up looking like an afterthought rather than a well designed, luxurious addition to your room.
We recommend you get yourself acquainted with the vast range of finial styles available (these are the ends of the pole) so that you can understand what type of finial you’d prefer in your window setting - from glamorous to contemporary, and even very simple - there really is something for all tastes.
Eyelet curtain poles generally come in the following popular colour choices, with something for every interior style:
Brass eyelet curtain pole
The brass eyelet curtain pole is a timeless, classic choice. This style is ideal for creating a bold, antique look, especially when matched with a rounded finial. Alternatively, a more modern, glamorous style can be achieved when pairing your brass eyelet pole with Kwartz finial.
Chrome eyelet curtain pole
If a more minimalist style is what you’re looking to achieve, then a chrome eyelet curtain pole is an excellent choice. Whilst often thought of as a cheaper option, the chrome eyelet pole is also very popular amongst even the most serious of interior designers since, when paired with the right curtains, it can create an attention-grabbing window setting.
Graphite eyelet curtains pole
For those who opt for modern, contemporary interiors, a graphite eyelet curtain pole can be an ideal choice. Not only does the pole itself provide a sleek feel to any window setting, but matched with a contemporary finial, it can be used to add the wow-factor to a room.
For more telescopic pole for saleinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Silver eyelet curtain pole
The silver eyelet curtain pole is a versatile choice for a window setting, working in a variety of interior settings. The silver curtain pole finish is provided in either satin silver or satin steel, with plenty of finial options to browse, so you can find the perfect one for your window.
Whilst eyelet curtains can be used for most pole types, it’s generally recommended you opt for a metal eyelet curtain pole, since these allow eyelet curtains to be drawn back more smoothly, compared to other pole materials such as wood.
Choosing your eyelet curtain pole: size & weight
If you want to create that stunning window show-stopper, then getting your fitting right is a must. With eyelet curtain poles, the curtain fabric sits above the pole, so it’s absolutely essential that the curtain material is measured precisely to allow for every fold to sit evenly.
To measure the right length pole for your window size, we recommend the following:
If possible, we recommend choosing a pole that’s slightly longer than what you need, since you can cut this down to size if you need to. This gives you flexibility when the pole arrives, should you want to adjust the look slightly.
Expert tip: when measuring your ideal curtain pole length, take into account any obstacles like radiators or furniture, which ideally you won’t want them to hang over.
Also, if you want to create a grander impression that your window area is much wider or taller than it really is, then you can add even more centimeters either side and above to achieve this, so long as your curtains can cover this distance (and you have the space around the window!). This will generally make it more expensive since you’ll likely need more curtain material, but if the grand look is what you’re looking for then go for it.
The next factor in finding the perfect curtain pole for your window space, is determining which diameter size can withstand the weight of your eyelet curtains. The last thing you want is to step back to appreciate your beautiful window setting, only to have it slide off the wall!
Thankfully, eyelet poles are made to hold both light or heavy curtains. We recommend the following diameters to ensure your curtains are sturdy and stay firmly in place.
35m curtain pole
This is best suited to heavier curtains, over 11kg in weight.
28mm curtain pole
For lighter curtains, we recommend you opt for the 28mm diameter range.
Choosing your eyelet curtain pole: brand
Once you’ve spent time pouring over the various beautiful options for dressing your window, getting the right measurements and then fitting your eyelet curtain pole, the last thing you want is to discover they’re of poor quality.
To avoid any window catastrophes, we recommend you buy your eyelet curtain pole from a trusted and experienced brand. Some of our personal favourite brands, ones our customers love, include:
Fitting your eyelet curtain pole
Once you’ve marked your measurements (in pencil!) on your window area as described previously, it’s time to hang your curtains and create your interior masterpiece.
Marking your brackets
Your brackets will sit in the previously measured points (around 10cm above the window recess and 15cm either side of the window frame), so be sure to mark this in pencil to make it easier when installing your eyelet pole.
Some tips at this point to get the most accurate measurements are:
Drilling your brackets
Once you’ve assessed the space and feel confident your pencil markings are accurate, you can now use the screws provided to drill your eyelet curtain pole in place.
Setting the curtain pole
Now your brackets are fitted, set your curtain pole onto these, ensuring there is an equal amount of pole on each side of the window.
Once you’re happy with how this looks, add your curtains to the pole by weaving the material through the eyelets, then place the pole back on top of the brackets.
You can now add your finials to either side of the pole and securely attach your eyelet curtain pole in place.
To improve the aesthetics of your eyelet curtains, it’s recommended that you have evenly spaced folds throughout. Eyelet curtains will naturally create these folds, however if they’re looking uneven or the curtains you purchased don’t have these folds, you can create them yourself. To achieve this, open your curtains then run your fingers down where you want the fold to appear, from top to bottom.
A great benefit of eyelet curtain poles is that they don’t typically require a tie back, since the curtains naturally drape and hang in an aesthetically pleasing way. Some people do however choose to add wall-mounted tie backs to their eyelet window setting, creating a further grand look, so this can be done.
Eyelet curtain pole care
To allow your eyelet curtains to open and close seamlessly, there are a few things to consider. Firstly your eyelets must be larger than the pole itself (roughly 1cm) to allow them to move freely over the pole.
Secondly, for maximum smoothness, you may want to lubricate your pole to create an effortless glide.
To safely lubricate your curtain pole to allow for a smooth glide, you must only use certain substances which will not damage the pole. For metal eyelet curtain poles we recommend spraying some household polish (silicon-based) onto a duster, then wiping the length of the pole.
Thanks for reading our extensive guide on creating the perfect eyelet curtain pole setting in your home. If you’re ready to browse a range of high quality, well priced eyelet curtain poles with designs for all tastes, then browse our eyelet curtain pole shop today.
The company is the world’s best aluminum extension pole supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.