Your windows are one of the most important exterior elements of your home. Not only do they impact the curb appeal of your home, but they can even be a hallmark for certain architectural styles. The last thing you want to do is get new windows that will clash with the current design elements of your home.

Knowing how to choose the right new windows to compliment the style of your home is key to bringing out the best in your home’s curb appeal. Here are five common architectural styles and the windows that best complement each.

Craftsman

Craftsman, bungalow style homes have made a huge comeback in terms of popularity. These functional homes have a distinctive form that began as a revolt against the excessive decoration in the Arts and Crafts period of the early twentieth century. Craftsman designs feature low-pitched roofs with wide overhangs, along with heavy, tapered porch columns set on stone bases. Porches can be offset, and windows irregularly placed, but these homes definitely have a distinctive window pattern which includes double and single hung openings that have top sections accented with vertical mullions.

Ranch

A ranch style home is a one-story design that became very popular in the 1950’s and 1960’s. The ranch is characterized by its single level low pitched roof, numerous windows, wide eaves, and asymmetrical layout. Ranch style homes usually include a built-in garage, along with sliding doors that lead to the patio or backyard space. Since ranch homes are low and only include one story, new windows should be longer than they are tall. They should also include large glass areas because the interior of a ranch style home benefits from plenty of natural light.

Contemporary

Contemporary homes reflect a modern approach to architecture. Contemporary homes differ from the ornate additions of older homes by expressing themselves with clean, horizontal lines and asymmetrical window placement. When it comes to contemporary windows, you won’t see many divides, but rather, big, open spans. Small secondary openings provide proper ventilation without obstructing views or drawing attention to a busy window surface. When it comes to new windows for a contemporary home, sliding openings and casement windows are usually selected.

Tudor

Tudor style homes are a British design. Tudors are defined by their cropped gables and exposed timbers set into stucco. Tudor homes usually include round, top windows which are clean and undivided. When choosing new windows to complement a Tudor home, casement or horizontal sliding windows make an excellent choice.

Colonial

Colonial style homes are known for their simplicity. These classic, two and three story home designs became popular in the north and south Atlantic regions in the 1600 and 1700s. The colonial style was a reaction to the popular trends of its time and are more structured and orderly than other home styles, such as the Victorian. Colonial homes include a structured façade and evenly spaced windows. When choosing new windows for this style, double-hung windows are usually the best choice. Your new windows should have grilles that give the windows an appearance of multiple panes. Windows also tend to be tall and feature shutters.

Choosing the Right Window Company

Choosing the right window style to compliment your home first begins by choosing the right window company to perform the installation. We can help you select the perfect set of new windows to beautifully complement the style of your home. With decades of experience you can count on, contact Armorvue Home Exteriors today for a virtual appointment.