When you are looking for a sleek look that also saves space, don't overlook the sliding window. It is often used in modern homes alongside casement or awning windows, offering a clean, horizontal aesthetic that fits contemporary architecture.
Imagine a double-hung window flipped 90 degrees and you will have a pretty good idea of what a sliding window looks like. Typically, it includes two sashes set next to each other horizontally. It can slide right or left to open — you can decide which sash will open when you order your window. Like most quality windows, it is available with an insect screen. However, without an insect screen, it offers a large clear opening — one of its unique qualities.
What are the advantages of a sliding window?
The horizontal orientation and opening style of a sliding window offer several unique advantages:
It saves space – It opens just like a sliding glass patio door. The moving sash slides along a track to open, as opposed to opening outward like a casement or awning window. This makes it ideal for areas with limited exterior clearance — near walkways, balconies, or narrow patios.
It fills wide openings – With its horizontal orientation and the ability to add a third sash, a single gliding window can fill a space that might otherwise require multiple windows joined together. This means potential cost savings for you.
It is easy to maintain – Its simpler design means fewer moving parts and pieces, which means fewer things will need care and upkeep over time.
It looks sleek – With its sliding operation, large expanse of glass, and discreet hardware, it is a great choice in a modern home.
It is easy to operate – Sliding windows are generally easier to operate than traditional hung-sash windows, requiring less effort to open. This is especially valuable when reaching over a sink or counter.
Where do sliding windows work best?
Here is where the shape and opening style of a sliding window can really be leveraged:
Near outdoor living spaces or walkways – Next to a balcony, deck, patio, or a narrow walkway, it is better to avoid a window that opens outward, like a casement window does. Instead, a sliding window is a great solution because of its flush opening.
In basements or spaces with low ceilings – The horizontal orientation of a sliding window makes it a great fit where you have limited above-ground space or in a home with low ceilings.
In modern homes – Certain architectural styles are more low-slung, like Mid-Century Modern and Ranch homes. In these homes, the slider's horizontal orientation works particularly well. A bank of sliders can also be installed to create a ribbon window effect — a signature of modern design.
In living rooms – The width of a sliding window means it can take the place of the most popular living room window combinations. Instead of a picture window joined together with flanking double hungs, you could select a single three-sash gliding window.
In kitchens – If you are reaching over a sink or counter to open the window, you want to select a window type that is easy to open. A gliding window slides to the side so it can be easier to open than a vertically oriented single- or double-hung window.
