Choosing new windows is one of those jobs that sounds simple until you realise how many styles there are. The good news is that most homes come down to a handful of common types, each with its own look, feel and best use. This guide walks through the main types of windows you will find in UK homes, so you can work out which suits your house, your budget and the way you live.
We fit all of these across York and North Yorkshire, from period terraces near the city walls to new-builds out towards the ring road, so this is the plain, honest run through.
Casement windows
Casement windows are the most popular style in the UK by a mile. The sash is hinged at the side or top and swings open like a little door. They are simple, reliable, seal tightly against draughts and suit almost any home.
Because they open wide, they let in plenty of fresh air and are easy to clean. They come in every material and a huge range of colours. If you are not sure where to start, a casement window is usually a safe and sensible choice.
Sash windows
Sash windows slide vertically, with one pane passing the other, and they are a classic feature of Georgian and Victorian homes. York has plenty of period properties where sash windows are exactly right, both for looks and, in conservation areas, sometimes for planning reasons.
Modern versions keep the traditional appearance but add proper draught seals and double glazing, so you get the character without the cold. They are more of an investment than a standard casement, but on the right house they are worth it.
Bay and bow windows
Bay and bow windows project outward from the wall, creating a lovely sense of space and a little shelf inside. A bay is usually made of flat sections set at angles, while a bow is a gentle curve of several panes.
They flood a room with light and give you that classic front-room look you see on so many Yorkshire semis and terraces. They are built from a combination of window styles, often casements, joined across the projection.
Tilt and turn windows
Tilt and turn windows are a clever, versatile design. The same sash can tilt inward from the top for a bit of secure ventilation, or swing fully open from the side. That full opening also makes cleaning the outside glass from indoors easy, which is handy upstairs.
They have a clean, modern look and are popular on contemporary homes and apartments. Because the whole sash opens inward, they also work well where an outward opening window would be awkward.
Fixed and picture windows
Not every window needs to open. Fixed windows, sometimes called picture windows, are a single pane that stays shut. Without a moving sash, they can be larger and frame a view beautifully, and they are the most airtight and affordable option per square metre.
They are often paired with opening windows nearby so you still get ventilation. A large fixed pane in slim aluminium is a favourite in modern extensions where the view is the whole point.
Flush casement windows
A flush casement is a variation where the opening sash sits flush within the frame rather than proud of it, giving a neat, flat appearance. This mimics the look of traditional timber windows and suits period and country properties well. Many homeowners choose flush casements to keep an older home looking right while gaining modern performance.
Choosing the right window material
Style is only half the decision. The material matters just as much:
- uPVC is warm, low maintenance and the most affordable, which is why it is the most common choice for the majority of homes.
- Aluminium is slim and strong, ideal for big panes and a modern look.
- Timber suits period homes and conservation areas but needs regular upkeep.
Our uPVC window range covers most of the styles above, and the right combination of style and material depends on your home and your budget.
Which window type is right for your home?
A few honest pointers:
- Period terrace or listed home: sash or flush casement, and check local conservation rules first.
- Standard semi or new-build: casement windows are hard to beat for value and reliability.
- Modern extension: large fixed panes and slim aluminium, or tilt and turn for versatility.
- Front room with a view: a bay or bow window adds space and light.
There is rarely one single right answer. It usually comes down to how the room is used, the style of the house and what you want to spend.
FAQs
What is the most popular type of window in the UK?
Casement windows are by far the most popular. They are versatile, reliable, seal well against the weather and suit almost any style of home, which is why they are fitted more than any other type.
What is the difference between a casement and a sash window?
A casement window is hinged and swings open like a door. A sash window slides vertically, with one pane passing the other. Sash windows are traditional and common on period homes, while casements are the standard modern choice.
Which type of window is most energy efficient?
Fixed windows are the most airtight because they have no opening sash, so no gaps for draughts. Among opening styles, modern casement and tilt and turn windows with good seals and double or triple glazing all perform very well.
Do I need planning permission to change my window style?
Usually not for a like for like replacement, but conservation areas and listed buildings have stricter rules that can affect style and materials. Rules change, so it is always worth checking the current guidance with your local authority before you commit.
Want to see every style, colour and finish in one place? Download our latest brochure, or book a free quote and we will come and talk it through at your home.