If you are either looking to renovate or building from scratch, it would be to your advantage to familiarize yourself with different styles of doors and windows. While they are not always people’s primary focus, these home elements are indeed significant and making an appropriate choice is essential. Depending on your home style and individual preferences, your choices could make a big difference for you.
In the following sections, we will take a look at available door and window styles that are popular these days. Familiarizing yourself with these types will help you make an informed decision about what is best for your home.
Popular trends in window design
While some people might think of windows as something that is just given as part of a house, they can actually vary considerably in design and quality. Actually, choosing between window styles and coming up with a good option could spruce up your home considerably.
Window walls
Ever heard of a window wall? It is basically what the name implies: a window that will allow you to see everything that can possibly be visible from one entire side of your house. They can stretch from floor to ceiling and give you a spectacular view of your surroundings. Particularly if you live in a picturesque area, you should consider this idea. There are different styles within the idea of the window wall, including operable windows, fixed windows, and glass doors.
Although having such large windows might require greater heating for your house, they can be well worth it for the view. Fortunately, multi-pane windows are being made with greater and greater insulation these days, so you might not lose much heat if you choose your window type carefully.
Windows with unique architectural shapes
Glass can be cut in any number of ways. While we tend to think of windows as being exclusively square or rectangular, there are actually a great variety of ways that they can be constructed. Victorian-era homes often had oval windows surrounded by elaborate frames, for example. You might also consider quarter- or half-rounds or different kinds of geometric shapes. If you have a room in your house that is funky or unique in design, this type of window could be the perfect complement.
If you find the right window company, you might be able to work with them to decide on a shape together. This could be a great way to add pizzazz to your house and show it off to your neighbors. With a custom frame, you’ll be in business.
Privacy windows
Privacy windows are basically the opposite of wall windows. While wall windows can be great if you live all alone in the mountains, they’re not necessarily the best choice for people in crowded cities who value their privacy. Over 90% of Canadians have some privacy concerns regarding their homes, so this could be a good option for many people. This type of window involves having a glass finish on top of the window. They can take different forms, from opaque (which cannot be seen through from the outside) to pindead or reeded.
Privacy windows are a good compromise for people who value their personal space. They still do the job of letting light in, but prevent people from viewing externally.
New door trends
Trends in doors are evolving, too. Having a unique and personalized front door can create a whole new experience for everyone that enters your home, family and visitors alike.
Bright colors
People vary in terms of the amount of attention they want to draw to their homes, and to their front doors in particular. Some people prefer to keep their doors subtle so that unwanted people do not notice them. However, with the right security system intruders should be less of a concern. Many people these days are choosing to go with big, bold colors, either as a complement to brightly-colored walls, or as a way to stand out in and of themselves.
Glass doors
Glass doors can take many different forms, from traditional to ultra-modern. Again, your choice will depend on your home style and the exact look that you are hoping to achieve. If you have a beautiful foyer that you want to show off, consider this possibility. A nice paneled piece with a wood frame – or even a solid pane – could be the perfect way to highlight your entryway.
If you like the idea of glass but have privacy concerns, consider getting a frosted glass style. You could also have a wooden door, for example, with just a small glass pane at the top. There are many different options; when you find a door seller, ask about doors that include glass elements in them if this is of interest to you.
Wood styles
Wood is, of course, one of the original door elements. But there are many different kinds and shades of wood. You could stain a door to have a deep, dramatic look. Or you could choose a lighter type for a more casual appearance.
There is also a difference in quality: The best quality wood types for doors are typically considered to be oak, mahogany, teak, and maple. These types are known for durability, resistance against the elements, and ability to ward off insects. If you want a wood door, take a closer look at these types and see which one seems to suit you best.
Trim your house the best that you can
Not everyone wants to make full-scale changes to their homes. Sometimes renovating things like windows and doors can be all you need to give your home that fresh new look you’ve been wanting. Be sure to do your research on what is out there, though; your goal should be to come up with something that is both aesthetically pleasing and good for your home. If you weigh your options carefully, you should come up with a great choice. And your neighbors will be impressed, as well.