That Certain Look – Part III: The Ins And Outs Of Doors And Windows

Door types by operating mechanism

Doors, ultimately, fall into two categories: swinging doors and sliding doors.

Swinging doors are the most common type of entry door or patio door you will encounter. Typical entry and patio doors will come either pre-hung, that is, complete with a frame made to a standard door size, or slab, which is just a door without a frame, to be fitted to an already-existing frame.

Sliding doors are rarely seen as entry doors; rather, you’ll find them most often used as patio doors; most automated garage doors are sliding doors, too. As patio doors, they’ll typically come in pairs, with one fixed door and one you can open. You can also have two (or more) sliding doors that can all be opened, giving you a wider entrance than you might get with a swinging door.

Window types by method of operation

Similar to doors, windows can be classified by how they open. Generally speaking, a window will either open on a hinge, slide on a rail, or not open at all.

Casement windows are your most basic type of hinged window; all other types are variations on it. Casement windows open sideways, and are identified by the crank which is used to operate them.

Turn a casement window sideways, and you get an awning window, which is great for allowing air in while it’s raining while keeping the rain out. Arrange casement windows in a group of four or more, and you have a bow window, which can be used to create useable space while providing excellent lighting and ventilation.

Double-hung windows are the most common type of sliding window. Opening vertically, both sashes can be opened independently; alternately, you can open just one, depending on your particular need.

Gliding windows open horizontally, and in addition to providing a great view, they can be opened to allow air to circulate.

When it comes to views, though, nothing can beat a picture window. The window’s ability to frame a view, along with its unprecedented ability to let in light and heat, make up for the fact that the window cannot be opened.