Replacing the windows in your home is a huge investment, but it is still very smart. New Anderson replacement windows give the inside and outside of your home immediate upgrade. It is kind of like getting to remodels for the price of one. There are obviously and a wide variety of window materials and styles to choose from. Once you decide what material you want for your windows, you should decide on the style that you want for each particular fixture in your house. You don't need to have the same style in every fixture. This article compares these two great window styles that are commonly installed in residential construction.

Fixed Windows

Fixed windows are obviously the most affordable of the these two styles. Since they have no movable parts, they are cheap and dependable. Importantly, they probably won't need any maintenance over the years, besides normal cleaning. Of course, you don't want to install fixed windows in areas where you will actually want to enjoy some fresh air. Usually, fixed windows are really practical on fixtures that cannot be reached, or are purely decorative. Fixed windows are also the best choice if you want to install some unique, custom, or oddly shaped fixtures. For instance, a circular fixed window won't be that expensive, but trying to install a movable window in a circular frame will be very costly.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are probably the most common when it comes to residential window fixtures. They are cost-effective, durable, and easy to operate. Since they don't have any complicated parts or mechanisms, sliding windows are perfect for homeowners who value low maintenance products. Depending on the size and shape of your fixture, you can have windows that slide vertically or horizontally. In general, a sliding window will cost about twice as much as a similarly sized fixed window.

Single vs. Double Hung

You also need to decide between single hung and double hung fixtures. A single hung fixture is one where only one of the sashes can slide within the fixture. Usually, on a vertically sliding window, only the bottom sash is movable. On double hung windows, both the top and bottom sashes are movable. They can slide up or down, allowing you to leave a gap open on both ends. This enables optimal airflow, and might make it easier to keep your rooms cool. That being said, a double hung fixture could be as much as twice the price as a single hung fixture.

Go through your home and decide which style will be best for each fixture.