August 7, 2020 by WindowRama
3 Popular Window Styles
How to compare Andersen windows and decide which model is right for your home.
A common misconception about homebuilding is that its process does not evolve over time. For hundreds of years, humans have used many of the same materials – including wood, concrete and steel – to create shelter from the outside world. As a result, some folks consider the industry static. “A window is a window,” they say.
That is not the full story, though.
While many aspects of homebuilding have remained constant for generations, new materials, products and designs continue to emerge – a result of changing tastes, new manufacturing techniques, and industry innovations. In particular, terms like insulation and energy efficiency were not being discussed 100 years ago. The demands of modern construction simply surpass those of the past.
Few markets reflect this change more clearly than the windows.
At WindowRama, we stock a number of innovative window solutions from a number of premium manufacturers – many of which would be mind-boggling to builders of the past. In this blog post, we highlight a few of the most popular styles available in 2020.
Window Materials
Nowadays shopping for windows can feel like an exercise in decision making. Whether you are building or remodeling, there are seemingly infinite options to choose from – including various shapes, manufacturers and materials. Since windows are such a prominent feature of every home, it is only natural to want the best ones.
But, what makes one window better than another anyway? And more importantly, how did we get to this current moment of decision fatigue?
While windows have always varied in shape, style and function, their composition used to be uniform: According to Architect Magazine, they were mostly made from wood until the early 20th century. Shortly after World War II, our increased availability to other materials expanded the playing field. Once steel and aluminum became feasible material options, the revolution began.
Many of the most popular windows styles for 2020 are composed of composites – such as Andersen’s Fibrex® material – or a combination of wood and fiberglass. Derived through many generations of building, research and manufacturing improvements, these formulas deliver strength, durability and style that builders of the past could not have imagined.
Best Andersen Window Series
Below we highlight 3 of the most popular window styles and product lines. Keep reading to learn the unique benefits of each, and watch our video demonstration on YouTube to see them in action. But remember: there is no golden rule when shopping for home materials. One of our top selling window brand series is Andersen, but the best windows for any home depends on its owners’ style, climate and budget.
Andersen 100 Series Casement Window
- Made with Fibrex®, which is 2x as strong as vinyl
- Opens outward for maximum ventilation
- Features a discrete folding crank
If you are looking to maximize fresh air and natural light in your home, look no further than the Andersen 100 Series Casement Window. A staple of Andersen’s budget-friendly collection, it is made with Fibrex®. Fibrex is a composite material that is twice as strong as vinyl, and is the only operable window style capable of displaying a full view while closed
Casement windows open outward to create large entryways which keep your home bright and empower you to live healthier. Think of them like a ventilator: a sash locks firmly into place, then funnels fresh air into your home. Each window features a crank – available in White, Sandtone, Black, Dark Bronze, Satin Nickel – which folds down to not interfere with your home design.
This can also provide you easy cleaning for when the seasons change. Furthermore, Andersen’s signature Fibrex® material provides clean corners for a refined look.
Andersen 400 Series Double Hung Window
- Rich wood interior protected by vinyl exterior
- 2 operating sash
- Energy efficient, durable and time-tested
If you are looking to minimize hardware without losing how the windows operate, consider the Andersen 400 Series Double Hung Window. Featuring rich interior wood and a durable, low-maintenance vinyl exterior, it strikes a balance between performance and style. Derived through years of engineering, innovation and craftsmanship, they offer the classic look of wood windows—but are built to last.
The most popular Double Hung product Andersen offers, these 400 Series windows feature 2 operating sashes which move up and down to allow fresh air into your home. Unlike the 100 Series Casement Window, it operates intuitively: Simply slide the pane you wish to move in the direction you want it to go. There is no cranking handles, and no folding of window hardware.
Andersen 100 Series Single Hung
- Made with Fibrex®, which is 2x as strong as vinyl
- Features a single operating sash
- Available in custom sizes
Finally, if you are willing to sacrifice a small fraction of ventilation in order to stay on budget, the Andersen 100 Series Single Hung window is an affordable option. Featuring 2 glass panes and a single operable lower sash, it provides the same striking views as a double hung window with half of the ventilation.
These windows are another staple of the Andersen 100 Series windows. As mentioned earlier, they are made with Fibrex®, which is a low-maintenance material that is stronger than vinyl. They can be customized to fit almost any opening.
Next Steps
Once you familiarize yourself with the most popular styles and narrow down your options, it’s time to consult with our window replacement experts. Visit one of our 20+ showrooms in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, or schedule a free virtual consultation. Our professional, insured staff can provide you with personalized service to help ensure you select the right window and door products.
For over 40 years, we at WindowRama have helped Tri-State area homeowners maximize the comfort and beauty of their homes. Whether you are building, remodeling or still brainstorming, we can ensure your project is a success – from start to finish.