The amount of air and light that awning windows let in is significantly greater than most window types. These windows offer superior ventilation and are considered to be the highest performing on the market, much like the Marvin® Windows we install.
Similar to Bay Windows, Bow Windows are aesthetically pleasing and offer excellent natural ventilation. Typically one of the largest windows available, Bow Windows can be made of up to six Casement Windows or Double Hung Windows. A single Bow Window can significantly increase the airflow within a home.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are a crank operated window that hinges at one side and swings outward to open. Homeowners can control ventilation by opening these windows a crack, or opening fully. These are so good for ventilation because you can access the entire opening instead of just half.
For areas with no view, consider clerestory windows that are high up on the wall. These still let in natural light and fresh air without the eyesore of an unpleasant view.
Window Style
In terms of operable windows, hinged-sash windows such as casement and awning windows are typically the most energy efficient as they create a firm weathertight seal when closed.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
These windows can be hinged left or hinged right (as viewed from the outside) and are operated with a roto- gear and crank. Casement windows provide almost 100% ventilation area, because they can be fully opened and the out-swinging sash can direct plenty of air into the building.
Louvered Windows
Louvered windows are similar to louvered doors which are provided for the ventilation without any outside vision. The louvers may be made of wood, glass or metal.
The most effective window placement for cross ventilation is to position operable window units on opposite walls in a space. This enables air/breeze to enter into the space, moving across the room, and exiting thru the opposite window to provide continual air movement throughout the space.
Use fans to improve air flow
Place a fan as close as possible to an open window blowing outside. This helps get rid of virus particles in your home by blowing air outside. Even without an open window, fans can improve air flow. Point fans away from people.
Single- and double-hung. Both sashes slide vertically in a double-hung window. Only the bottom sash slides upward in a single-hung window. These sliding windows generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows.
Glass for Cold Weather Windows. When it comes to the window itself, avoid single-pane windows. These don't hold in heat well enough for northern climates. Instead, homeowners in cold climates should opt for double or triple-pane windows made from low-E glass.
To keep air as clean as possible inside your home they recommend people keep their windows and doors shut. Pollutants that are outside can easily find their way inside. Try running your air conditioner and set it to re-circulate the air -- the idea is to keep the air moving and keep it cool.
Door and Window Direction As per Vastu
North: Doors and windows in the north or north-east direction let in fresh air and powerful sunlight in the morning.
When you open a window, does air flow in or out of the room first? Air will always flow from higher pressure to lower. If the window is facing the wind (what nautical people call the windward side) then the pressure will be higher and the wind enter the room.
Some data suggest that most awning windows permit less than 20% of natural ventilation through their overall window area.
Awning windows can be placed higher on walls than many other types of windows. High window placement is useful for capturing natural light and ventilation while also maximising your wall space and maintaining privacy. Awning windows offer superior privacy options to other openable windows.
Clerestory windows can be great for natural ventilation, natural lighting and passive solar heating strategies. But they can also be a cause of serious thermal problems (overheating, excess glare, heat loss during the heating season.
Another downside of casement windows is that they may not be as secure as other window styles, such as sash windows. This is because casement windows often only have one locking point, which can be forced open. If security is a top priority for you, then casement windows may not be your first choice.
The Sliding Window Solution
Their design is perfect for traditionally styled homes, however this also makes them a bit less versatile than their counterparts. Sliding windows are typically cheaper than casement windows and are much easier to operate.
Air tightness is defined as the window capability to prevent air from passing through it. This capability is measured on a scale, from class 1, less tightness, to class 4, higher tightness.
Double pane windows are the most common type of house window, and they typically have a hollow space between two panes of glass. The hollow space is filled with argon gas to improve insulation. Double pane windows can reduce heat transfer by up to 24%, making them one of the best materials for hot weather.
So, what is the most sustainable window material? Overall, modern aluminium windows come out on top when sourcing the most sustainable construction material for home improvements. These are closely followed by natural timber windows, and then versatile uPVC window frames.
“Energy-efficient windows can help you save an average of 12% on your energy bills. This means you'll save between $100 and $600 per year on your utility bills,” Mehta says. “Your exact savings will depend on your climate and how many windows you have.”
But if you never exchange the air inside your home for fresh air, it can get stale and potentially lead to health issues. Have you ever heard of sick building syndrome, or SBS for short? That's when you spend a lot of time inside a space that is tightly sealed and with little ventilation.