WINDOW AND ITS TYPES (DETAILED NOTES)
What is a Window?
A window is an opening provided in a wall or roof of a building to allow natural light, ventilation,
sound transmission, and outside view into a room. It is an important component of a building that
improves comfort, appearance, and energy efficiency.
Functions of a Window
1. Provides natural daylight inside the room.
2. Allows fresh air and ventilation.
3. Offers an outside view.
4. Enhances the aesthetic appearance of the building.
5. Helps maintain indoor temperature and comfort.
6. Provides emergency exit in some cases.
Parts of a Window
• Frame: Outer structure fixed to the wall.
• Shutter/Sash: Movable part that opens and closes.
• Glass Pane: Transparent sheet fitted in the sash.
• Lintel: Horizontal member above the window.
• Sill: Bottom horizontal member.
• Mullion: Vertical division between window units.
• Transom: Horizontal division between window units.
Types of Windows
1. Fixed Window
A fixed window cannot be opened or closed.
Features
• Permanently fixed glass.
• Provides light and outside view only.
Advantages
• Low maintenance.
• Economical.
• Good for decorative purposes.
Uses
• Shopping malls, offices, staircases.
2. Casement Window
The shutter is attached to the frame with hinges and opens like a door.
Features
• Opens inward or outward.
• Most common type of window.
Advantages
• Good ventilation.
• Easy operation.
Uses
• Residential buildings, schools, offices.
3. Sliding Window
The shutters move horizontally on tracks.
Features
• One or more panels slide sideways.
Advantages
• Saves space.
• Easy to operate.
Uses
• Modern houses and apartments.
4. Pivoted Window
The shutter rotates around a central pivot.
Features
• Rotates horizontally or vertically.
Advantages
• Provides controlled ventilation.
• Attractive appearance.
Uses
• Commercial buildings and offices.
5. Double-Hung Window
Consists of two sashes that slide vertically.
Features
• Both upper and lower sashes are movable.
Advantages
• Good ventilation control.
• Easy cleaning.
Uses
• Residential and heritage buildings.
6. Louvered Window
Made of inclined slats of glass, wood, or metal.
Features
• Slats can be adjusted.
Advantages
• Provides ventilation while maintaining privacy.
Uses
• Bathrooms, toilets, kitchens.
7. Bay Window
Projects outward from the wall of a building.
Features
• Usually consists of three window panels.
Advantages
• Provides wider outside view.
• Improves room appearance.
Uses
• Living rooms and drawing rooms.
8. Corner Window
Provided at the corner of a building.
Features
• Two walls meet without a corner pillar.
Advantages
• Better light and ventilation.
• Attractive design.
Uses
• Modern residential buildings.
9. Dormer Window
Constructed on a sloping roof.
Features
• Projects vertically from the roof.
Advantages
• Provides light and ventilation in attic spaces.
Uses
• Sloped roof buildings.
10. Clerestory Window
Located near the roof level.
Features
• Installed above eye level.
Advantages
• Provides daylight without reducing privacy.
Uses
• Churches, halls, factories.
11. Skylight Window
Installed on the roof.
Features
• Allows sunlight from above.
Advantages
• Excellent natural lighting.
• Saves electricity.
Uses
• Shopping complexes, halls, staircases.
12. Ventilator Window
A small window placed near the ceiling.
Features
• Used mainly for air circulation.
Advantages
• Removes hot and stale air.
Uses
• Bathrooms, kitchens, toilets.