Many homeowners forget to make ventilation a top priority in their home design, and they end up paying for it later with humidity, unwanted heat, and high energy bills. Today homes are sealed up tighter than ever. Every room needs a place for air to come in and a way for air to move out. Airflow from windows is the oldest trick in the book, and is critical if you want fresh, clean air. So here are some of the best window styles if you want to maximize ventilation in your home.
- Awning Windows
Because of heavy rains, a lot of homeowners in Tualatin, OR keep their windows closed during summer. No one wants to let that much water into their homes. But with awning windows you can open them, even when it is raining. These windows hinge at the top and open outward, creating a small awning over the window opening. That said, most awning windows have smaller openings. So you will get some airflow, but not as much as with other window styles. These are great for smaller rooms that do not require as much ventilation.
- Casement Windows
These windows hinge to one side and open outward, usually operated with a crank. To capitalize on ventilation from casement windows, you want them to open towards the wind and so they can catch the air as it travels along the exterior of your home. If the wind is traveling in the other direction these will not be as effective. But the good news is you can crank them to expose the entire opening of the window.
- Horizontal Sliders
These windows do not protrude outside when they are open. This makes them a great choice for areas along patios or walkways where you don’t want any obstructions but still want to allow ventilation indoors. But the reason these windows are not higher on this list is because you can only open half of the window, or less, for ventilation.
- Single and Double-Hung Windows
These are other window styles that do not protrude outside that are also great for ventilation. Instead of sliding side to side, these windows open vertically. With single-hung windows only one sash moves. With double-hung both sashes move. Again, only half of the window can open at a time. But with double pane windows Tualatin, OR you can open the top and bottom sash part way. This allows cool air in through the bottom and pushes warm air out the top for improved air circulation.
Natural ventilation encourages passive cooling and improves indoor air quality. And the best way to foster natural ventilation in your home is through the proper style and placement of your windows. For more help choosing the right and longest lasting window options for your home, talk to the professionals of EnergyGuard Windows and Doors. You can reach us at 503-554-5500 or stop by to check us out in person, 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. We can have a designer walk through your home and find the best styles for ventilation in the different rooms of your Tualatin, OR home.