Benefits of a Fixed Window

Fixed windows are often known as picture windows, which mean they can’t be opened or closed. They’re often found in homes with high or vaulted ceilings or installed as an arched window over vaulted areas, doors and even other windows. They serve one main purpose: to frame a gorgeous view. However, they do have many other benefits to homeowners. First, let’s understand what the definition of a fixed window is and the types of fixed windows that are offered.

What is a Fixed Window?

A fixed window can also be called a picture window or architectural window and is designed to frame particular scenery outdoors. Fixed windows can come in any shape and size, and are the most energy-efficient type of window available.

Fixed windows also offer the most natural light into your home. Not only will this prevent you from turning on the lights during the day, saving you money, but natural light also effects your mood. Psychology Today says that natural light improves you mood and makes you more productive throughout the day. Who doesn’t want to be more motivated and productive?

Fixed windows look good in any home but they’re most often used in living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, nurseries and basements.

Shapes of Fixed Windows

Architectural or shaped windows are fixed windows that come in many different shapes and sizes. Below are some of the most common shapes available and how you can use them in your home.

Round Window

Round windows look best in smaller spaces such as bathrooms of taller hallways. They’re a great way to let in a little extra light.

Circle Top Windows

This type of fixed window allows you to place a curved top or arch above any type of window. Circle top windows are used to add definition and bring in more light. Think of the Nortre Dame Cathedral’s South Rose Window, minus the stained glass.

Oval Windows

Oval windows are optimal for rooms with vaulted ceilings that could use some extra light.

Octagon Windows

Octagon windows offer a unique reflection of light and provide definition to areas of your home with corners. You can customize the window one step further and add grids to give it even more detail.

Triangle or Trapezoid Windows

If a geometric shape is really what you’re looking for, triangle or even trapezoid windows can help create a unique illusion and dimension to your home. Consider placing two triangle windows side-by-side or creating a custom design with multiple trapezoid windows to bring in more light.

Types of Fixed Windows

Not only are there different fixed window shapes, but there are different styles as well. We’ll go over the most popular styles below.

Pictured Windows

These are often used to expand the outside view and are typically installed in combination with operational windows that open and close.

Glass Blocks

Fixed window blocks are frequently used in bathrooms or as an exterior feature and can be manufactured in clear or translucent variations to provide desired degrees of privacy. They’re considered out of style and detract from your home’s curb appeal.

Bow Window

This type of window serves the purpose of creating a curved window design and a feeling of magnified space. They are usually installed in a group of four panes and are coupled with operational windows for function as well as aesthetics.

Bay Window

A fixed window is usually installed in the center with two additional operational windows on each side to provide ventilation and open feeling.

Materials for Fixed Windows

The material your window is made from makes a huge difference in how it looks and performs. The question is: which material is best for your home? We’ll let you know below.

Wood

Wood is the most traditional window material. However, wood windows tend to cost more than other window types. They’re also prone to warping and rotting when exposed to moisture.

Vinyl

Vinyl windows perform similarly to wood windows when comparing energy efficiency, but are significantly less expensive and require less maintenance. This makes vinyl windows a better option than wood windows – especially for Midwest homeowners.

Aluminum

Aluminum windows are low-maintenance option, but offer the least energy efficiency of any window material available.

Benefits of Fixed Windows

So now that you know about the styles, shapes and materials, one question remains: how can fixed windows benefit your home. We’ll go over all of its benefits below.

Various Design Options

There are unlimited options when it comes to designs for a fixed window. They come in several shapes and sizes and you can truly make a design that meets your needs.

Economical

Fixed windows are more affordable than you’d expect. Since they don’t offer any moving parts, they’re significantly less expensive than their operable versions in the same dimensions.

Insulation

Fixed windows are perfect for individuals suffering from allergies or disabilities that prevent them from going outdoors.

Low-Maintenance

Due to their inoperable nature, fixed windows are also incredibly easy to clean and maintain. They don’t collect much dust or gather many fingerprints, plus there are fewer parts to repair if something gets broken.

Uninterrupted Views

Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors from the comfort of your home with larger floor-to-ceiling fixed windows or incorporate larger shape windows above other types of windows to add creativity and dimension into the design.

Natural Light

If you love natural light shining through your windows, fixed windows offer an excellent solution to invite lots of natural light into the interior of your home.

Solar Heat

In addition to allowing natural light into your home, fixed windows also allow solar radiation to heat your home naturally in the winter. This reduces your energy bills and helps you live more comfortably all year round.

Better Security

Sealed windows are very difficult to break into. Unless an intruder smashes the glass and alerts the homeowner that they’re breaking in, it’s unlikely they’ll break in through a fixed window.

Energy Efficient Fixed Windows

Before you go getting any fixed windows, you need to make sure it’s energy efficient. You want double pane, argon gas-filled glass. This is because they prevent drafts from getting through the glass and into your home.

Fixed Windows Are a Great Option for Your Home

There are several reasons to consider fixed windows for your home. They’re the most energy efficient window style, they can easily be combined with other home styles to create a personal and unique look and they let natural light in. Not to mention the little benefits of beautiful views, low-maintenance and increased security.

There’s also a certain look to a home with plenty of windows. A home with floor-to-ceiling windows tends to be more desirable than one with fewer and smaller windows.

Whether you’re customizing, replacing or remolding your windows, fixed windows provide the ultimate views. They’re a great choice for living rooms, dining rooms and master bedrooms – any room where ventilation isn’t a concern and relaxation is your main focus.

Different windows are best suited for different rooms, depending on what the room is used for, where it’s located, and even which side relative to the sun the window will be on.

Learn everything you need to know about fixed windows, the types and material and even the placement in your home from the experts!

Speaking of window experts, Feldco ensures you’ll get the best fixed windows from our home. We’ll meet with you and discuss all of the options available to help you customize the perfect window for your home. Then, professional installers will come and ensure your window is put in properly.

Get a free quote and join 400,000 homeowners who have trusted Feldco with their home improvement projects.