Introduction of Picture Windows
Picture windows are a great way to frame a beautiful view from the outside. Picture windows are a great way to make connections between the space inside and outside the building. A picture window is used to frame a scene without obvious obstructions as if looking at a picture from a room.
The window has become a popular feature in modern self-build, renovation, and extension which gives wow-factor moments to the house. In some areas, the wind is blowing with high speed and it is a concern to put a picture window in such an area. In such a case high-impact picture window can be placed.
What Is Picture Window?
Picture windows suit both traditional and contemporary properties and can be best used in rural areas or coastal environments. Thus, the outside view can be maximized so that people can enjoy the view using the picture window. As glass is the main organ in the window, there are no restrictions on its shape, size, or structure.
For example, for best results, a large-sized picture window is required and picture windows are used in places like bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens in the house for excellent views. A rectangular picture window appears in most places.
also read: Hopper Window | What Is Hoper Window | Hopper Window Installing Procedure
Purpose of Picture Windows
Picture windows are more commonly specified in kitchens in urban areas, providing a view of the garden, as well as helping to draw deeper natural light into the home.
A 90-degree frameless glass-to-glass corner can be created to get a real thrill, panoramic views, and stunning views. The inclusion of a comfortable seat near the picture window proves to be a very popular option.
Picture Windows Size
The typical window widths are 2,3,4,6, and 8 (in feet). The height of this window can range from 1 foot to 8 feet. Large windows can be up to 72 inches in height and width.
If you want a window with a width or height greater than 72 inches, you have to choose the option of custom picture windows.
WIDTH ( IN INCH ) | |||||||
HEIGHT ( IN INCH) |
DIM | 24 | 36 | 48 | 60 | 72 | 96 |
12 | 24″ x 12″ | 36″ x 12″ | 48″ x 12″ | 60″ x 12″ | 72″ x 12″ | 96″ x 12″ | |
18 | 24″ x 18″ | 36″ x 18″ | 48″ x 18″ | 60″ x 18″ | 72″ x 18″ | 96″ x 18″ | |
24 | 24″ x 24″ | 36″ x 24″ | 48″ x 24″ | 60″ x 24″ | 72″ x 24″ | 96″ x 24″ | |
36 | 24″ x 36″ | 36″ x 36″ | 48″ x 36″ | 60″ x 36″ | 72″ x 36″ | 96″ x 36″ | |
48 | 24″ x 48″ | 36″ x 48″ | 48″ x 48″ | 60″ x 48″ | 72″ x 48″ | 96″ x 48″ | |
52 | 24″ x 52″ | 36″ x 52″ | 48″ x 52″ | 60″ x 52″ | 72″ x 52″ | 96″ x 52″ | |
60 | 24″ x 60″ | 36″ x 60″ | 48″ x 60″ | 60″ x 60″ | 72″ x 60″ | 96″ x 60″ | |
62 | 24″ x 62″ | 36″ x 62″ | 48″ x 62″ | 60″ x 62″ | 72″ x 62″ | 96″ x 62″ | |
72 | 24″ x 72″ | 36″ x 72″ | 48″ x 72″ | 60″ x 72″ | 72″ x 72″ | 96″ x 72″ | |
96 | 24″ x 96″ | 36″ x 96″ | 48″ x 96″ | 60″ x 96″ | 72″ x 96″ | 96″ x 96″ |
Picture Window Installation
The installation process in the picture window can be done as a DIY project and can also be done by contacting a well-known brand.
The main thing in the picture window is the choice of glass and frame. Also, make sure that all the edges of the glass in this window are properly sealed. Window proves to be less energy efficient if the edges are not properly sealed. The other thing is frame fitting. The frame also has to be installed properly so that there will be no problem in the future.
Considering the above, it is advisable not to install this window as a DIY project.
Picture Window Installation Cost
Fiberglass and vinyl picture windows are relatively inexpensive while wooden picture windows can be a bit expensive. The cost of installing this window depends on the material, brand, size, and area of labor. However, installing this window can cost approximately $ 375 to $ 780.
Large Picture Window Cost and Picture Window Cost Per Square Foot
The price of the picture window can be approximately $ 20 – $ 30 per square foot. But, if you want to use luxurious high-colored specific glazing in frames, the price per square foot is doubled.
The large picture windows price is higher than the small picture windows. This high price is a bit of anxiety in putting a big picture window. But for the benefits, it is worth it. Depending on the size, color, type, quality and glass units, etc., the cost can also vary from $ 600 – $ 1200 per window.
It is imperative to optimize the big picture windows for the home that can be installed with a customized degree of sun-heat protection, soundproofing, and glass reflection. The matter corresponds to the needs because it is related to the location, climate, local noise pollution, and visual appeal.
Use of Picture Windows with Other Types of Windows
Flanker means placing one window unit next to another window unit. The use of a flanker is more common in the picture window.
Picture Window with Casement Flankers
The picture can be used in combination with other windows to make the window attractive. This different type of window should be chosen based on its use. There are many types.
Picture Window with Double Hung Flankers
For example casement picture windows, picture window with double hung sides, picture window with side windows, awning picture windows, sliding picture window, etc.
Sometimes an arched picture window can be obtained by placing an arch over the picture window.
The bay window configuration has a picture window in the middle and the side panel is flanked by venting. This type of window gives extra space with beauty.
The kitchen can have two wide casement windows above the sink and a large picture window with it. The kitchen picture window gives the kitchen a sense of grandeur. In addition to kitchen living room picture windows, a master bedroom picture window, and bathroom picture window can also be obtained.
A frameless picture window is useful for balconies, shower screens, and glass walls. Frameless windows are very useful to add aesthetic charm by keeping fixings and joints to a minimum.
Types of Picture Windows
The picture window frame is made of different materials and has the following types depending on it.
1. Wood Picture Windows
Wooden picture windows give the house a classic aesthetic look and are very popular. Wooden windows are strong but require regular maintenance for weather resistance.
2. Aluminum Picture Windows
Aluminum picture windows are lightweight, durable, and extremely resistant to weather. These windows are available in many types. This window is very useful for a modern and polished look.
3. Vinyl Picture Windows
Vinyl picture windows are much cheaper, more durable, and easier to maintain. This window is the best option for a low budget.
4. Fiberglass Picture Windows
This window provides a nice mix of both strength and affordability. Fiberglass frames can last longer and be better energy efficient. The good thing about this window is that it does not bend. These windows can also be painted.
Low-E Glass and Insulated Glass Units
Low emissivity glass (Low-E glass) filters out harmful UV rays and reduces glare. This type of glass has a thin metallic coating that reduces the amount of light transmission entering the house so the color of the furniture stops fading. Thus this glass prevents damage from direct sunlight.
An insulated glass unit is useful to keep out heat or cold. This glass reduces heat transmission so less energy is used to heat or cool the house which saves money. This type of glass is made by attaching an insulating spacer with two pieces of glass and sealing the space in the middle.
Single Pane and Double Pane Glass
The pane is a big factor other than the material that affects costs. Price generally depends on the energy efficiency level of the pane. These things should be taken into consideration when doing picture window glass replacement.
1. Single Pane Glass
This window has the same level of glass and glazing so it is a less energy-efficient option, but the low cost plays a big part in making this pane attractive.
2. Double Pane Glass
There are two layers of glass and glazing in this window as a double pen is considered to be standard and provides the basic amount of insulation.
Picture Window Replacement
There may be several reasons why old windows should change but the main reason is security.
This large picture window was used many years ago when it was more common than double-hung or sliders but now modern technology has become much better. This window is stronger and more durable. Since they are with a more stringent seal, they do not break easily and are more energy-efficient.
Incidentally, when the window cracks or a part breaks down, there is a need to change the window. A new modern picture window can be obtained by replacing the old window.
Picture window replacement costs can be approximately $ 425 to $ 795.
Clean the Picture Window
1. Use Strip Applicator
Soaking the long cloth head of the strip applicator in soapy water and turning it on the glass removes all the dirt. Weingard uses dishwashing liquid in a bucket of hot water for the cleaning solution. The less suds this is the better.
2. Use a Squeegee to Wipe Clean
Pull the squeegee over the soapy pane in a reverse-S pattern, starting from the top left. Wipe the blade of the squeegee with a lint-free cloth at the end of each stroke. Cloth diapers or old linen napkins are suitable for this purpose.
3. Dry Off Remaining Water Drips
The remaining water on the edges of the glass should be removed with damp, wrung-dry chamois. Doing so will remove the moisture on the glass without leaving streaks. It is necessary to dry the window seal with a rag.
Advantages of Picture Windows
Here is the list of Picture Windows Pros as follows.
1. Insulation and Weatherproofing
Traditional picture windows have all the edges tightly closed and cannot be opened. This prevents them from allowing air or water to enter or leave the house. picture windows are the best type in terms of energy efficiency as they are insulated fixed windows with Low-E coating, warm-edge spacers, and other energy-saving capabilities.
2. Lighting
The picture window has the option of customizing to make it larger than most other types of windows. This limits the need for artificial light in the house during the day and allows plenty of sunlight.
3. Maintenance
Picture Windows is very easy to clean and maintain. The main reason for this is that the picture window has no moving components and no hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.
4. Cost
Fixed windows do not have mechanical parts that need replacement when they fail so they are convenient and cost-effective. They usually cost less to install than the same-size sliding or casement windows.
also read: Casement Window | What Is Casement Window? | Different Types of Casement Windows
Disadvantages of Picture Windows
Here is the list of Picture Windows Cons as follows.
1. Ventilation
The biggest disadvantage of this type of window is the lack of ventilation. Installing picture windows is not an efficient choice when relying heavily on ventilation to cool the house in hot weather. To solve this problem, there is a need to install more operable windows in the room.
2. Maintenance
When it comes to cleanliness, there are pros and cons. The lack of revolving parts of this window makes cleaning easier, but only from inside the house. The exterior of picture windows is difficult to clean, especially if they are large or installed on the upper floors.
3. Increase the Heat
Picture windows are usually very energy-efficient, but they also provide a lot of light, which means there is also the disadvantage of unwanted solar heat. U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient values also need to be considered to avoid additional heat problems.
4. Cost
Another dilemma for these windows is cost. It is true that there are not many parts in Picture Windows that need to be replaced. However, over time, these windows wear out and the whole unit has to be replaced when such a situation arises. In this case, if some other window fails, the problem can be solved by replacing only certain parts.
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Picture Window Prices
Installing this window can cost approximately $ 375 to $ 780.
Best Picture Windows
- Marvin Picture Windows
- Pella Picture Windows
- Milgard Picture Windows
Picture Windows That Open
The picture window is always fixed. If ventilation is required, another window has to be placed next to it. Any window can be placed as a flanker that can match it properly.
Double Hung Picture Windows
A double-hung picture window means a double-hung window next to the picture window. The combination of these two windows is called a double-hung picture window.
Fixed Picture Window
The picture window is fixed. It cannot be opened so each picture window is called a fixed picture window. Some people call a frameless picture window a fixed picture window.