French windows are one of those terms that gets used loosely, and people often mean slightly different things by it. Are they windows? Are they doors? A bit of both? This guide clears it up, explaining what French windows are, how they differ from French doors and ordinary casements, and where they work best in a home.
What are French windows?
French windows are a pair of tall, narrow windows, hinged at the sides, that open outward or inward from the centre like a pair of small doors. They are glazed from top to bottom or nearly so, and they meet in the middle with no fixed bar between them, so when both are open you get a clear opening.
The name comes from a style that goes back centuries, when full-height glazed openings became popular in France for letting light and air into rooms. Traditionally, French windows sat above waist height in the wall rather than running down to the floor, which is one of the things that separates them from French doors.
Because they open fully, French windows give more ventilation than a standard window and a lovely open feel to a room. They suit period homes especially well, and you will see the look on plenty of older properties around York.
French windows vs French doors
This is where most of the confusion comes from, and honestly the line is blurry. Here is the practical difference:
- French doors run from floor level and are meant to be walked through, usually opening onto a garden, patio or balcony.
- French windows are the same double, glazed, side-hung style but sit within the wall as a window, with a sill and wall beneath them, so you look out rather than step through.
In everyday speech people use the two names interchangeably, and manufacturers do not always agree either. If you want something you can walk through, ask for French doors or patio doors. If you want a window that opens wide for light and air, French windows are what you are after.
French windows vs casement windows
A casement window is any window hinged at the side (or top) that opens on a stay. So in a sense, French windows are a type of casement, a pair of tall casements meeting in the middle with no central mullion.
The differences that matter day to day:
- The centre. Standard casement windows usually have a fixed frame member (a mullion) between the opening sashes. French windows meet in the middle with no fixed bar, so you get an unbroken opening.
- Proportions. French windows are tall and slim, made to be a feature. Casements come in all shapes and sizes.
- The feel. French windows have a more decorative, characterful look that suits period rooms, whereas casements are the everyday workhorse of British windows.
Where do French windows work best?
French windows earn their keep anywhere you want extra light, air and a touch of elegance without a full doorway. Good spots include:
- First-floor rooms overlooking a garden, where doors would not be safe but you still want to throw the window right open.
- Period living rooms and bedrooms where the tall, symmetrical style suits the age of the house.
- Rooms with a Juliet balcony, where the French windows open onto a small railing rather than a walkable balcony.
They pair nicely with a small railing or balustrade on upper floors, giving you the open feel without the drop.
What materials and finishes are available?
French windows come in the same range of materials as other windows, so you can match them to your home:
- uPVC is warm, low maintenance and good value, and modern uPVC windows come in heritage colours and woodgrain finishes that suit older homes.
- Timber gives the most authentic period look but needs regular upkeep.
- Aluminium offers slim frames and a sharp, contemporary edge, ideal where you want maximum glass. Our aluminium windows are a popular choice for a clean, modern finish.
In a conservation area or on a listed building there may be restrictions on style and material, so check the current rules with your local authority before you order.
What do French windows cost?
Because French windows are a made-to-measure, feature style with two opening sashes, they usually cost a little more than a plain single window of the same size. As a rough UK guide, expect a figure that reflects size, material and glazing, and always treat any online figure as a ballpark rather than a fixed price. The sensible move is to have them measured and priced for your home. You can request a free quote and we will give you an honest number.
FAQs
Are French windows the same as French doors?
Not quite. Both are the double, side-hung, glazed style, but French doors run to the floor and are made to walk through, while French windows sit in the wall as a window with a sill beneath and are made to look out of.
Do French windows open inwards or outwards?
Either is possible. Outward-opening is common in the UK because it keeps the internal space clear, but inward-opening versions exist. Which suits you depends on the room and how much space you have around the window.
Are French windows secure?
Modern French windows use multipoint locking and toughened or laminated glass options, so they can be very secure. As with any window, the quality of the locks and fitting is what counts, so it is worth choosing a reputable installer.
Can I have French windows on an upper floor?
Yes, they are a popular choice upstairs, often paired with a Juliet balcony or a small railing so you can open them fully and safely without a walkable balcony beyond.
Rounding up
French windows are a pair of tall, glazed, side-hung windows that open from the centre for maximum light and air, sitting in the wall rather than running to the floor like French doors. They suit period and modern homes alike and add real character. Want to see the styles and finishes in full? Download our latest brochure, or get a free quote and we will pop out to measure up.