If you are considering replacing your home’s window, or if you’re building a new home, you may be wondering how to choose the right size window for your space. Here is the foolproof, five-step process that we recommend to homeowners who visit our window installation store.
1. Consider the Size of the Room PLUS Your Home’s Style
As a general rule, the larger the room the larger the windows can be. However, there is no prescriptive rule for how much of a wall should be taken up by windows; anything from 0-100% can be correct.
That’s because, in addition to the size of the room, you’ll also need to consider the architectural style of your home when you try to identify the right size window for your space. A modern home can look spectacular with floor-to-ceiling windows. However, this same design choice would look bizarre on a traditional colonial brick home.
What we don’t recommend is trying to make a very small room appear larger by adding a relatively oversized window.
Here, for example, the large window only highlights how cramped this room is.
This small room is a perfect example of one that might look spectacular with a slim, vertical window.
2. Think about the Function of the Room
If your kitchen has a great view of your backyard, and you like the idea of being able to see your landscaping and watching kids and pets play, you may want a large window in that space.
If, however, you are looking for a window for your home office, and you know that you’d be easily distracted by beautiful or busy views, you may want to opt for a smaller window.
Overall, modern windows will be quieter than older, wood or vinyl windows. However, the larger the window, the more potential there is for sound to infiltrate. Be sure to consider how sound may affect how your spaces function.
3. Consider the Light you Want in the Room
A primary factor in the light you’ll get in a room is the direction that the wall is facing.
South-Facing Rooms: These rooms receive direct sunlight for most of the day. Smaller windows can help manage heat gain and prevent glare. Consider also using blinds or curtains to control the amount of light.
North-Facing Rooms: North-facing rooms receive indirect sunlight, which is generally softer and more consistent. Larger windows can help maximize natural light in these spaces.
East-Facing Rooms: These rooms receive morning sunlight, which can be bright and invigorating. Consider smaller windows to avoid excessive heat gain during the summer.
West-Facing Rooms: West-facing rooms receive afternoon and evening sunlight, which can be intense. Opt for smaller windows or use blinds to control the amount of light and heat.
4. Determine the Mood you want in the Room
The perfect size window will accentuate the feel you’re hoping to achieve in a room. For instance:
Bright and Airy: For a cheerful and open feel, choose larger windows that allow for plenty of natural light.
Cozy and Intimate: Smaller windows can create a more intimate and cozier atmosphere. Consider using curtains or blinds to create an additional sense of warmth.
Dramatic and Moody: For a dramatic and moody ambiance, opt for fewer, larger windows that allow for dramatic lighting effects.
5. Confirm that your Dream Window can be Built
We recently worked with a customer who wanted to replace a window with a larger, vinyl window. The dimensions he wanted were roughly 70” X 90”.
Although we were able to quote and order the window, we soon got a call from the production factory with some bad news.
They found that the window was so large that the vinyl frame could not support the weight of the large piece of glass.
In short, they could not make the window with reasonable expectations that it would function properly. They quickly updated their ordering software so that no one else would face the same disappointment!
Generally speaking, composite and aluminum-clad windows can be built to larger sizes than vinyl windows can be. However, it’s important to note that all windows have maximum sizes, above which they can’t be built.
Best Window Installation Company
When it's time to replace your windows, you want to work with experts who have helped thousands of homeowners find the right size windows for their space. Window Works Co. would love to help you, too!
Use the calendar below to schedule your free, no-obligation Window Consultation Call today!
