What are some of the benefits of sliding windows?

Sliding windows offer some amazing advantages over other window styles. Some of the biggest benefits include:

• Variety of sizes. While sliding windows were once only available to fit small spaces, you can now custom-design your sliding windows to fit your design needs.
• Improved ventilation. Sliding windows tend to open wider than traditional double-hung windows which allows for natural ventilation.
• Ease of operation: Sliding windows effortlessly slide horizontally on their tracks, eliminating the need to lift heavy, traditional windows.
• Ease of cleaning: Sliding windows can be easily removed from their tracks to allow for thorough cleaning of the inside and outside surfaces.
• Minimal maintenance: Sliding windows have fewer parts than conventional windows, meaning less chance of breaking vital parts that control operation.

How do sliding windows operate?

Sliding windows are composed of two or more sashes within a single frame. Typically, one of these sashes is fixed while the others are operable. This allows the moveable sash to slide within tracks of the frame horizontally to open and close. 

Since the entire window stays within the frame, this type of window does not create an obstruction inside or outside of the house. 

These windows are typically easier to operate since the moveable sash slides along the track and does not need to be lifted at all. This also allows for these windows to be larger in size than double-hung windows.

When closed, the window hardware will latch the sashes in place. Additional stops can be added to secure the window at different lengths along the track meaning that a window can be opened to a specific degree and then latched from the inside to prevent further movement. 

Are sliding windows energy efficient?

Since they have less moving parts than double-hung windows, sliding windows are usually more energy efficient. There are additional features that will make sliding windows even more efficient such as adding special coatings to the glass or ensuring that the frame is made with high-quality vinyl and other energy saving materials.

When is a sliding window the best choice?

Because of their functionality, sliding windows are the best choice when you’re looking for good ventilation but don’t have a lot of extra space. 

Since their operation is contained within the window frame, they will not extend outward from the wall. 

Sliding windows are often the best choice for areas above sinks, behind furniture, or in addition to larger inoperable windows.