Best Types of Windows for New England Homes
![historic home exterior rehab](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210621102150im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/widescreen_large/s3/s3fs-public/Windows-rehab.jpg?itok=hOuevKKq)
3 pros!
Which window type suits your home's architecture?
All kinds of homes dot the Atlantic landscape of New England. From historic to modern, extravagant to simple, our area has it all.
If you're looking to renovate your home or just in the market for replacement windows, consider whether a different window style would go better with the type of home you're living in. Certain window styles can really complement your home's architecture and give us what we’re all looking for — excellent curb appeal.
To help narrow down the decision-making process for you, we've created a list of common New England home types (also found in other parts of the U.S.) and the style of windows that looks best with each.
![Soft-lite casement windows](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210621102150im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/half_width_with_auto_height/public/casement-windows-woodgrain.jpeg?itok=bwvkmHT0)
Casement windows (Photo courtesy of Soft-Lite)
Colonial homes
WINDOWS: Double Hung, Casement
The iconic colonial home dates all the way back to the 1600s in Boston, Massachusetts. These homes were originally built in saltbox style and had numerous long and rectangular windows, typically with grids.
If you’re living in a colonial style home, double-hung windows or casement windows can enhance your home in terms of aesthetics and energy savings.
![Soft-lite double-hung windows](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210621102150im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/half_width_with_auto_height/public/replacement-window-estimate-612x302.jpeg?itok=ZC9MRO-x)
Double-hung windows (Photo courtesy of Soft-Lite)
Georgian homes
WINDOWS: Double Hung
Georgian style homes are all about symmetry and clean lines. Window styles that complement Georgian homes include the traditional double hung, although it’s not uncommon to see geometric windows, such as circular windows or oval windows.
Keep in mind, you’ll want to choose vinyl trim colors that coordinate with your Georgian home. Traditional white or black is always safe, but some manufacturers offer a wide selection of interior and exterior color options. Be sure to ask your window company which colors will best complement your Georgian home.
![Soft-lite awning window](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210621102150im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/half_width_with_auto_height/public/awning-windows-400x400.jpeg?itok=tQTJxKqZ)
Awning window (Photo courtesy of Soft-Lite)
Victorian homes
WINDOWS: Double Hung, Awning, Casement
When you live in New England, you don’t have to look far to find Victorian homes. They're beautiful, elegant homes that feature various textures and window styles. Victorian homeowners can have fun mixing and matching various window styles to complement the architecture’s unique aesthetic features.
Many Victorian homes have tall double-hung windows with intricate grids and glass patterns. This home style can boast varying colors within their shingles and siding, and you can create your own custom window design to complement or coordinate with this architecture.
![sliding window in kitchen](https://webcf.waybackmachine.org/web/20210621102150im_/https://media.angi.com/s3fs-public/styles/half_width_with_auto_height/public/sliding-windows.jpeg?itok=v7gBqjyx)
Slider window (Photo courtesy of Soft-Lite)
Ranch-style homes
WINDOWS: Awning, Sliding
The ranch is a domestic architectural style noted for its long, low-to-the-ground profile and minor use of decoration. The house blends modernist ideas and styles with hints of the American Western period. Sliding and awning windows best complement the horizontal nature of the home.
First built in the 1920s, the ranch style was popular with the post-war middle class of the 1940s to 1970s. They are another common housing style you’ll see across New England as you venture out past the bustling cityscapes.
Things to consider for each window type:
Sliders:
• Sashes slide horizontally rather than vertically
• Distinctly horizontal proportion — work best in ranch-style homes
• Maximize the amount of glass for light and view
• Not an option for those wanting a solid or uniform sheet of glass
Double hung:
• Most common in industry — especially New England
• Two separate sashes hung in one frame
• The sashes slide up and down
• Ideal for traditional style homes
Awning:
• Uses a crank to open and close the sash
• Hinged at the top so sash pivots instead of swings
• Work great in traditional and contemporary style homes
• Can be opened in the rain
• A problem with certain building code requirements
Casement:
• Go well with traditional and contemporary homes
• Single sash that’s attached to a frame on one side
• Swings open just like a door, uses crank like an awning
• Can be grouped together so that all the panes of glass are in one
• Screen is located on the inside which makes it an important visual element
Which type of window do you prefer? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below!
As of June 15, 2016, this service provider was highly rated on Angie's List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check Angie's List for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie's List.