House With Big Windows: 7 Things To Know
One thing that most of us can agree on is that a house with big windows is a dream! But like so many things that come with building a new home, their beauty can be offset by challenges. Here’s everything you need to know about building a house with big windows, from how it affects your heating and cooling to the different types of large glass windows as well as tons of inspirational photos!
If you’re building a new house (or renovating one), one of the first steps (besides finding a builder and choosing a lot, of course) is to decide on and order your windows.
In This Post
- Are large windows in a home expensive?
- Are houses with big windows costly to heat and cool?
- Different types of large glass windows
- Homes with large windows (photos)
Everything you need to know about houses with big windows
Are large windows in a home expensive?
Generally speaking, yes. Large windows are typically more expensive than the cost of smaller windows.
If comparing floor to ceiling windows vs. smaller windows with sheet rock and other building materials, large windows are still the more expensive option. While there are many types of windows and prices will vary significantly, large windows are generally more expensive than small to medium sized windows.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider what’s most valuable to your design needs and how you envision your dream home. Have you always wanted floor to ceiling windows? It may be worth investing in larger windows and then saving money in other areas of your home build to stay within budget.
Are houses with big windows costly to heat and cool?
Single or double pane glass, coatings, size of windows, and if they are operable can all affect how big windows affect the cost of heating and cooling a home. In general, houses with big windows do cost a little bit more to heat and cool. However, there are many ways to keep that cost difference minimal:
- Double or triple glaze the windows
- Use well-insulated framing
- Add low-emittance coatings
- Use warm edge spacer bars to keep cold or warm air from passing through the windows
- Use an experienced manufacturer
Different types of large glass windows
There are many types of windows as well as many different types of glass. In choosing large windows for your home, here are a few common options!
Types of windows
- Picture Windows – large, fixed windows that cannot be opened. Perfect if you have a great view!
- Casement Windows – these open swing open from the center or the side. Great as kitchen windows and for letting in fresh air.
- Slider Windows – perfect for opening and closing in warmer weather climates!
- Arched or Round Windows – nothing makes a design statement like a large, beautiful arched or round window.
- Grid Windows – want big windows in your home but don’t have much of a view? Grid windows may be there perfect option. They also add tons of character to a home!
Types of glass for large windows
- Float Glass – Float glass is glass in its truest form. It tends to be relatively low cost, but isn’t as strong as other options may be. However, there are different quality levels of panes and float glass can be strengthened to a certain degree.
- Tempered Glass – Tempered glass is an upgrade to annealed glass (which is a type of float glass) and can be up to 4 times stronger.
- Laminated Glass – Laminated glass is the type of glass you have on your car. It’s strong and can minimize damage.
- Insulated Glass – Insulated glass is a great option for those who live in colder or hot climates! Made with 2 or sometimes 3 panels of glass, this type of glass is perfect for big windows in an energy efficient home.
- Low-E Glass – Another great energy efficient option that can help lower utility bills. Low-E glass reflects thermal radiation, keeping warmer air inside during the winter and pushing warmer air away during the summer. While it’s a bit of an upgrade, the amount of savings in the long run may be worth it for those living in cold or hot climates.
Homes with large windows (photos)
Ready for some inspiration? Here are some of the most beautiful homes with big windows!
Big windows for the living room
Big windows for the living room can really amplify your space and make it feel grand. Here are some of the most beautiful living rooms with large windows!
Large kitchen windows
If you’ve been looking at the latest kitchen trends this year, then you know that big kitchen windows are definitely a must. Here’s a few photos of how you can incorporate large windows into your dream kitchen!
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