When a standard window won't do
Some openings call for something other than a standard double-hung: a bay window in a living room, a large picture window facing a view, an arched window over a door, a casement over a kitchen sink, or a bedroom window that has to meet escape requirements. Specialty windows take more planning, more measuring and sometimes structural work. They also tend to have longer lead times.
Bay and bow windows
Bay windows project from the wall, usually with a large center window flanked by two angled windows. Bow windows are a gentle curve of four or more windows. Both add space and light, and both are heavy. They usually need support from below or cables to the framing above, a properly insulated seat and head, and careful roofing or flashing over the top. Ask how the contractor will support and insulate the unit and keep water out above it.
Picture windows
Large fixed windows give the most glass and the best view, and they don't open. They're often combined with operable windows alongside for ventilation. Large glass is heavy, so check that the opening and framing are suited to it. Glass near a floor or a door may need to be tempered safety glass.
Casements and awnings
Casements hinge on the side and crank open; awnings hinge at the top. Both seal tightly when closed because the sash presses against the weatherstripping. Casements are easy to open over a kitchen counter. Awnings can stay open in light rain. Make sure the crank hardware and screens are good quality.
Arched and odd shapes
Arches, circles, trapezoids and other shapes are usually custom-made, and most are fixed. Measuring and templating has to be exact. Expect longer lead times and higher costs than standard shapes.
Egress windows
Building codes require bedrooms, and some basement rooms, to have an emergency escape opening that a person can climb out of. If you're replacing a bedroom window, the new window still has to meet that requirement, and a style change can affect the opening size. Turning a basement room into a bedroom may mean enlarging a window opening and adding a window well. Ask the contractor to confirm the requirements with your local building department.
Safety glass
Codes require tempered or other safety glass in certain locations, such as near doors, in and near tubs and showers, near stairs and in large panes close to the floor. The contractor should identify those locations and order the right glass.
Structural changes
Enlarging an opening, adding a new window or installing a large bay may mean cutting into a wall, adding a header to carry the load above, and repairing siding, stucco or interior finishes. That's structural work that usually needs a permit. Ask who will handle each part, including siding or stucco patching and interior trim.
Lead times
Custom and specialty windows are usually made to order, and lead times can be longer than for standard windows. Plan around them, and ask what happens to the opening while you wait.
Questions to ask
- How will you support and insulate a bay or bow window, and how will you keep water out above it?
- Which windows need tempered or safety glass?
- Will the bedroom windows still meet escape requirements?
- Is any structural work needed, and who pulls the permit?
- What's the lead time, and how will the openings be protected meanwhile?
- What does the written warranty cover?