Top 10 Window Opening Types

Windows play an integral role in any home, and it is important that you do as much as possible to make the most of this. You need to look at what you can do to make sure you get the best possible windows for your home. Believe it or not, there are quite a few different types of windows to choose from, and each of them operates in a slightly different way.

This is why it is important to make sure you look at some of the different windows that are available and the different ways in which they open. Understanding the different windows you want for your home is really important to sort out before you get a quote. And this is something that you need to think about as much as possible. Here are some of the top 10 opening types of window you should definitely know about.

 1. Side Hung

Side hung windows are one of the most popular types, with hinges on one side, and a handle on the other. Simple and effective, these side opening windows offer maximum practicality, can be opened fully, and offer great security. The only drawback with side hung windows is that they can sometimes move with enough pressure, and this is something to consider with gale-force winds.

 2. Top & Bottom Hung

Top hung and bottom hung windows are of a similar ilk to side hung windows, except that they have a horizontal axis on either the top or the bottom. These windows are designed specifically for ventilation, without the windows being opened completely, generally for safety reasons. Ideal choices for top and bottom hung windows to be used would be classrooms and schools, where they offer great security as well as airing the rooms.

 3. Side Guided

Side guided windows share a lot of similarities with the side hung windows. However, the main difference here is to do with the hinges that are used. Side guided windows tend to have the window sash move across when opened, so this lends an aesthetic without visible hinges. This is a fine choice for those looking to improve and boost the aesthetic appeal of a home.

 4. Top Guided

Top guided is a very popular design for those sorts of top opening windows that are wide and short, and these windows open out and up, with a handle at the bottom. These windows are a simple yet effective design, and this is something to keep in mind when making your choice. They are stylish, but they are not necessarily the most practical choice for homeowners.

 5. Top Swing

Similar to the top guided windows, but with much more to offer, the top swing windows can pivot almost 180 degrees, allowing you to experience the full impact of the window. It lets you air the room much better while at the same time being much easier to clean. Top swing windows are not overly common, as not all window manufacturers can create them. So it would be worth enquiring about these in advance.

 6. Tilt Turn

Tilt turn windows rank among the best and most popular of the window types in the UK due to their versatility. These windows operate on two separate axis; tilting and turning, and this is something that makes them so appealing to consumers. This is basically a design that combines the best parts of side hung and bottom hung windows, and this is something you need to keep in mind right now.

 7. Fixed

Fixed windows are not exactly a type that opens, but, instead, do what the name suggests. They remain fixed in place, and this makes them a much cheaper and more cost-effective option for a lot of property owners. There are a lot of things to consider here; of course, not every window in the home should be fixed, as this isn’t practical. But for aesthetic purposes, you might choose to have a couple of windows that are fixed.

 8. Folding

Folding windows are an excellent design for those property owners for whom space is a premium. The great thing about these windows is that they fold like a book and this allows them to free up the entirety of the window’s opening.

 9. Sliding

Sliding windows do exactly what they say on the tin, and this is one of the reasons why people like them so much. Sure, they might feel a little old-fashioned, but they can serve a practical purpose, especially as interior windows.

 10. Guillotine

Guillotine windows move along separate rails in the opposite direction of their separation, and this gives homeowners two different types of window. They don’t require space to be opened, but they do only open 50%, and this can be a drawback for a lot of people.

Make sure you understand what it takes to enjoy the best possible windows in your home, and this means you should focus on what it takes to make the right choice. Understanding the best possible window type for your home is important, and this means looking at the different types of window openings that are available.

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Manual Window Opening Types

Manual window opening types are very common and they can be used with a number of different window styles. They don’t require any additional electrical installation and they tend to be cheaper, which is why a lot of people go for them. When choosing manual window opening mechanisms, there are a few different options to consider.

Manual Winding Gear

A manual winding gear can open one or more high-level windows using a simple winding handle. These systems are often referred to as Teleflex window openers, but this is actually an old brand name rather than the name of the type of window opening.

There are a lot of different brands available, but they all look very similar and work in much the same way.

How does a manual winding gear work?

Your window will be fitted with a chain that pushes it open and closed. This chain mechanism is then attached to a helical cable, which will be run through a conduit attached to the wall and fixed to a rotating handle. The handle is placed somewhere convenient, and you can easily open and close the window by rotating it.

What kinds of windows can they be used on?

One of the benefits of manual winding gears is that they can be used on most different window types. They work with side opening windows, bottom opening windows, bottom hung in and out, and skylights. You will often find manual winding gears in schools but they are useful in any commercial or residential application, especially where adding more electrical wiring is not an option.

What options are available?

Teleflex is one of the better-known brands of manual winding gear, but there are other options available too. These include; Ultraflex Control Systems, Highline, and Ottelli Ricardo. Most of the systems are very similar to one another and a lot of the parts are interchangeable, making for easy repairs, if necessary.

Manual Folding Window Openers

Manual folding window openers, also known as over centre camstays, are a simple but effective option for outward opening windows. They are very secure and easy to operate.

How do manual folding window openers work?

A manual folding window opener consists of a simple folding hinge that allows you to push the window and open it outward. One opener will be used on smaller windows but multiple units can be connected together with a pole for larger windows. If the window is low down, they can simply be operated by hand. For higher windows, a pole will be used to push the hinge outward and open the window.

What kinds of windows can they be used on?

Manual folding window openers are designed for use on top hung outward opening windows. They can be used on windows made from any material, including PVC, aluminium, and wood. They’re often used in office buildings, schools, and hospitals, but they are well suited to any top hung outward opening windows in residential or commercial settings.

What options are available?

There is a huge range of different manual folding window openers available. They can be specifically designed to fit your windows, so the window will have to be assessed first. People often choose this option over a manual winding gear because they are cheaper and you don’t need to run the cable along the wall.

Screwjack Window Opener

Screwjack window openers are a traditional type of window opening mechanism that uses a simple threaded rod. There are a few variations allowing you to use a pole or handle to open windows from a distance.

How do screwjack window openers work?

Screwjack windows consist of a threaded rod, usually made from brass, which pushes the window open. Simply wind the rod to screw it in further and push the window open. In some cases, a handle is used to screw it but a rod can also be attached.

What kind of windows can they be used on?

Screwjack window openers are most commonly used on conservatory windows and in skylights. They’re also used for flat pitch roof vents or low level windows on vertical walls.

What options are available?

Screwjack window openers come in a range of different sizes and finishes, including brass, chrome, and satin chrome. There are also a number of bracket options for uPVC and timber windows.

Electric Window Opening Types

Electric window openers, also known as electric actuators, are a very popular option because they’re more convenient than manual window opening systems. There is a wide range of different electric actuators available to suit all types of windows. These are some of the most popular types of electric window opening available right now.

ACK42 Chain Actuator

The ACK42 chain actuator is one of the most popular electric window openers. It works with a simple chain that is driven by a motor. It is all encased in a sealed box, so it can even be used on windows where there is a potential for rain.

What kind of windows can it be used on?

The ACK42 chain actuator is used on a wide range of windows in domestic and commercial settings. They are commonly used in conservatories and orangeries, where they can be used in conjunction with temperature and rain monitors. However, they are simple to fit and come with a variety of bracket options to suit any type of window.

Kato KS30/40 Window Opener

The Kato KS30/40 window opener is a popular choice for skylights because the simple bracket allows it to easily be fitted to existing windows. It has a built-in receiver, so less wiring is necessary, and it’s very easy to fit. It also has a very high locking force, so it’s nice and secure.

What kind of windows can it be used on?

The Kato actuator is best suited to skylights and roof windows but it can be fitted to any windows above 200mm tall, from the opening edge to the hinges.

Aprimatic ST450

Linear window actuators are especially useful for roof vents and dome windows. The Aprimatic ST450 is one of the best linear actuators there is. It’s quiet when it operates and it comes with the choice of a 300mm or 500mm opening stroke. The powerful motor is capable of opening very large windows.

These are the main types of window opening available to you. Get in touch to discuss your needs and we will find the perfect window opening solution for you.