The Ins and Outs of Sliding Windows

Courtesy of Pixabay

By Gates Dearen

If the eyes are the windows into the soul, then windows are the eyes of your home.  Just as the human eye has evolved to precisely control and focus light, modern windows have been designed to control the intensity and wavelength of light admitted into a structure.  While there are a myriad of different window styles and treatments from which to choose, today I thought I would take the time to tell you about sliding windows. 

I See the Light

If you are looking to brighten up a room while simultaneously providing a spectacular view of the great outdoors, sliding windows could be just the ticket.  Their narrow, contoured frames are designed to admit the maximum amount of light while giving you the best view of your yard yet.  If you ‘re looking to enhance illumination in a room and super-size your viewing pleasure, consider all that a slider has to offer.

Looking to Save Space?

Because these windows slide from side to side, as opposed to opening upward or outward, they are great space-savers too. Sliders not only give you the flexibility to fit them into any room, they can be customized to slide open from either or both sides.   If you want to enlarge the windows in any room, you can elect to design your sliding windows with up to 3-panes, 2 of which slide.  Sliding windows can even be combined with a picture window to maximize the viewing area of any large window opening.

Need a little more breathing room?

Courtesy of  HomeRite of Jacksonville

Another great feature of sliding windows is their ability to control ventilation.  Because of their increased size, sliding windows tend to let in more air than double hung windows. Their easy-to- slide sashes and built-in track locks mean you can precisely control the amount of ventilation admitted, without compromising security.  

Sliders Versus Double Hung Windows

When it comes to geometry, sliders are generally taller than they are wide.  They are commonly used in homes that require tall, slender windows.  The only real advantage that a double hung window has over a slider is that many double hung windows offer the convenience of tilting in.  This can make them easier to clean, especially when they are installed on the second floor.  However, sliders are now designed to be removed from their tracks to simplify cleaning.

Sliders versus Casement Windows

Casement windows, crank open.  This does provide added ventilation since casements can open fully, whereas sliders can only open half way.  However, the mechanisms that make casements open and close require maintenance from time to time, where sliding windows require little if any maintenance.  Casements are also more difficult to clean when installed on anything other than the ground floor. 

Impact Resistance

With all that glass, one would suspect sliding windows would be more vulnerable to flying debris.  This isn’t necessarily the case.  Our Pinnacle sliding windows come with clear poly material sandwiched between two sheets of glass.  This helps keep the windows intact in the fiercest of winds, even if a piece of debris should hit them.  It also makes them highly energy-efficient.

Sliders are no “plain Janes”

Courtesy of  HomeRite of Jacksonville

Available in both aluminum and cellular construction, sliding windows come framed in a number of colors to complement your home’s exterior.   You may also choose various style elements such as interior grids and grilles that can further enhance the custom look of any sliding window.  Bathrooms are also a great place for sliders since obscure glass is an option.

Easy to Use & Maintain

Not only are sliding windows a breeze to open and close, their frames and sashes are easy to clean and maintain.  They can keep out the worst that the weather can throw at them since their interlock system creates a tight seal.  This also keeps noise intrusion to a minimum as well.

Built-in Security Features

Sliders don’t let security slide either, since they come with built-in security features, including vent-lock and rail-locking systems that keep your home safe even when you want to let in some fresh air. 

In short, if you are looking for replacement windows that give your home more eye-appeal, slide on over to our showroom and ask to be shown what sliding windows have to offer

Courtesy of  HomeRite of Jacksonville

Technical Details

  ·        3" Frame Depth with

·         Side-Loaded Sash

·         Double Pane Impact Glass Products are Available in Clear, Grey, Bronze and with Low-E

·         Custom Sizing Available

·         ½” Front “Florida Flange” and Fin Version Available for Wood Framing

·         Exterior Glazed Frame and Sash

·         Precision Bearing Stainless Rollers –Protecting against corrosion

·         2” Sill Height to Help Prevent Water Intrusion

·         Sweep Lock System at Meeting Rail for Security

·         Interlock System Creates Tight Seal

·         Half Screen Available

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. He and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. They strive to match homeowners with the right windows and doors for their homes and budgets. They make the home improvement process pleasant with first-rate, energy-efficient products, affordable pricing, and award-winning installers who employ the best practices and who always treat customers and their property with the utmost respect.