American steel manufacturers are held to a set of standards created by organizations like The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that determine the appropriate chemistry mixes for different types of steel. These standards are intended as a safety precaution to ensure the right quality of metal is being used for the right product.
Companies in China are producing steel at a faster rate, flooding the market and dropping prices. It is produced at a rapid rate and it is not held up to the same quality standards as American steel. There are anti-dumping laws in place by the World Trade Organization to prevent foreign companies from exporting, or “dumping,” goods to the United States at either prices too far below the domestic price or when they flood the market with an excess quantity that is beyond the normal competition. This situation has lead to trade wars headlined by tariffs between the United States and China.
Fixed windows, as the name suggests, are functional and not operational. You cannot open them, meaning they remain closed throughout their service life. Fixed windows do not have hinges, handles, or any other moving parts. They are solely for permitting light while separating interior and exterior conditions.
Since fixed windows do not have any moving parts, they are durable and require less maintenance. However, cleaning them becomes an issue when installed on upper floors.
Single-hung windows have window panes divided into two: bottom pane and top pane. In this design, the bottom pane is operational. That is to say, it can open to allow in the fresh air. These windows are more energy-efficient, space-saving, and cost-effective.
Single-hung windows are also known for enhancing security. They are operated with only one lock, increasing the chances of closing and locking your windows. Regarding design, single-hung windows are the simplest with unlimited options.
Unlike single hung windows, double-hung windows open both at the bottom and top. This additional functionality makes them more superior. Cleaning your windows have now become easy and less risky since you do not need ladders or scaffold. All the cleaning can be done from the inside.
Double-hung windows are easy to maintain, safer, and adds value to the property. However, they are not the most airtight option you have. Also, the ventilation is limited since half of the window will be covered at any given time.
Awning windows open outwards from bottom to top. By design, hinges are located at the top and security lock at the bottom, much like bathroom windows. This allows you to open your windows even when it is stormy or snowy outside. You can enjoy the fresh air while keeping foreign objects such as leaves from getting into your home.
Additionally, awning windows provide security and privacy since they can be installed much higher up on the wall. They are also versatile, offering you limitless design options.
Hopper windows are designed to open inwards. They can be hinged at the top or bottom, meaning the latch or security lock will also be located at the top or bottom. Depending on personal preferences, hopper windows can open all the way up to 90 degrees or halfway (45 degrees).
Hopper windows are best for ventilation purposes, especially if installed to open from the top. They are also energy-efficient and easy to clean.
Clerestory Windows sit between two levels of external roofing and skylights. Given their position, they allow maximum natural lighting and add aesthetics. However, this lighting can be uncomfortable at night, especially where floodlights are installed. They are also hard to shield and require high ceilings compared to most window designs.
Bay windows are stylish and add space and charm to any house where they are installed. A bay window consists of three or more window panels arranged to form a single unit. The panels are installed to jut away from the wall, giving you additional storage space.
Other advantages of this window include better exterior view, ventilation, and lighting. That is because of their large sizes.
Fold-up or bi-fold windows and doors are a perfect choice to add to any house. The design consists of multiple panels that fold onto each other when the window or door is opened. It is opposed to sliding or hinged doors. The panels have tracks on the floor or walls.
You get maximum natural light, security, flexibility, curb appeal from bi-fold windows and doors. However, you face maintenance challenges. Tracks must remain clean and free from leaves and soil particles. It is also expensive to buy and install fold-up windows and doors.
As the name implies, horizontal sliding windows and doors have panels with parallel sliding rails. If you need to open such windows or doors, simply push one door or window panel away from the wall. This technique is used where space is limited.
Sliding doors and windows are trending, but it will cost you more to buy and install. Also, you can have a full view of the exterior since both panels cannot slide concurrently.
On average, we can say that casement windows and doors are the second-most energy-efficient option after fixed windows. That is so because they are designed with an airtight seal which cuts off the link between interior and exterior conditions.
Awning windows VS Casement Windows
By design, casement windows and doors open outwards, giving you an unobstructed view of the outside and excellent airflow. They are also rated high for security and energy-saving.
Pivot windows are European style that adds elegance and boosts the aesthetics of any home. These windows are designed to revolve around a horizontal axis located midway between the top and bottom of the window. This design makes it easy to clean both inside and outside of the windows from inside.
Pivot windows are all-weather. You can open them during snow or rain without letting in these undesired weather elements. They are a top-notch design for ventilation.
Tilt and slide windows and doors are a space-saving option for limited interior space.
They are operated by either sliding or tilting the windows inwards. Compared to other window options available, they have better insulation property, ventilation, and security.
From the name, this is a two in one window that combines sliding windows and tilted windows. Below “tilt and turn tindow and door” shows the difference.
Tilt and turn windows are three technologies in one. When locked, the handle is pushed all the way down, and it becomes a fixed window. Pulling the handle to a 90 degrees position will unlock the window and allow it to swing inwards. Moving the handle to a further 90 degrees will make the window tilt open.
Tilt and Slide windows have the benefits of excellent ventilation, easy to clean, more airtight, more secure, and aesthetically appealing. With this design, sashes and hinges are also hidden.
Transom windows are designed to maximize the penetration of sunlight. For such reasons, they are best for poorly lit rooms such as a dingy garage. They are also environmentally friendly, improve privacy since they are high up on the wall, and add aesthetics.
Transom windows are fixed windows that are placed high up the wall above the ordinary windows or doors. As such, they are not for ventilation. Due to their position, they are also not easy to clean.
Adding sidelight windows to a front door is the best way to improves your home’s air quality and natural lighting. These are narrow vertical windows installed on both sides of the door. They are usually found on the interior or exterior doors, and their height can extend to a quarter, half, or the entire length of the door.
Sidelight windows offer more sunlight and a better view of the outside. They also add curb appeal to your home, improving the property value. Adding sidelight windows can be expensive if they were never designed with the door.
By design, Louver windows consist of horizontal slats made of either glass, wood, metal sheet, or any other material. The opening is controlled by operating a lever, making these window types the best for ventilation. However, they are not airtight.
Louver windows are easy to operate. Air can be made to flow naturally by regulating the angle of the slats or horizontal blades. Cleaning is also easy. On the other hand, these windows are not easy to install and do not last as long as expected.
Skylight or rooftop windows make you enjoy the view of the blue sky and come with many other benefits. They add natural light to any room, ideal for ventilation, save energy cost, and aesthetically appealing.
However, Skylight windows have many constraints. Their position on the roof and material used should be considered to avoid possible leakages after installation.
French doors and windows are stunning additions to any home. They have become popular in recent years for their high aesthetics and other functions. People prefer them to other window designs because they offer a better view of the outside features and permit maximum light indoors. French windows are also durable and energy-efficient.
Roof lanterns provide light and heat. This can help you reduce the energy bills by decreasing the electricity used in lighting and warming the room.
Roof lanterns are generally installed above the main roof line. Each system can be incorporated into glazed structures or conventional construction.
Additionally, roof lanterns have been exploited for interior decorations.
Sunrooms are included in our homes to improve openness and visibility. Apart from being more cost-efficient, sunrooms are more versatile and easier to maintain than other rooms. They can enhance your property value, reduce your energy bills, add storage space, provide a resting place for basking, among other benefits.