Whether your garage serves as a place to protect your vehicles from the elements, a storage space, or a multipurpose room, it could still benefit from one added function: natural lighting. Garages are often an overlooked room when it comes to home renovation. But the reality is that at the end of the day, a little extra care for your garage can make a big difference when it comes to increasing your home’s value. And that’s especially the case when it comes to adding garage door windows.
Besides the obvious curb appeal with a variety of styles and materials available, garage windows are a crucial element for both ventilation and energy-efficiency.
Still, there are many types of garage window options available and selecting the right one might feel overwhelming. That’s where Modernize comes in. Here is a rundown on the best garage windows to consider for your next project, as well as next step to take to get your window project started.
Available Garage Window Styles
Besides aesthetic and natural lighting, windows for garages serve an even higher purpose because they allow ventilation into a largely-enclosed space. Here are the most popular garage window styles on the market:
Casement Windows
Casement windows swing open outwards and sideways on a vertical axis, meaning they should be installed in an areas without high foot-traffic areas. They are ideal windows for garages that need a ventilation super-boost.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are another popular style of garage window. Like casement windows, they open outward. But instead of being hinged on the side, they open upward. Awning windows are also great for ventilation and lighting. They are ideal for cramped spaces since they open upward. However, just like casement style garage windows, they can be easy to run into depending on where they are placed.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are a classic choice for good lighting and are aesthetically pleasing. For these reasons, they are great option for adding curb appeal. But this option will only work in a well-ventilated garage, since they do not open.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are among the most popular and universal garage windows. They are widely used throughout homes, not just in the garage, since they come in just about every size, color and material and are cost-effective. Double-hung windows do not swing outward. Rather, you open them by raising or lowering the window’s sash. Visually, they can stay consistent with the rest of a home’s architectural style while still adding ventilation and natural lighting.
Windows For Garage Doors
When considering a garage windows renovation, you’re probably also thinking about garage door windows. Garage doors are often a focal point for curb appeal, since many homes’ garages face the street. Adding beautiful new garage door windows can give your home’s exterior a fresh new look – not to mention, add lots of natural light to the interior of your garage.
For example, many homeowners choose to add garage door windows with frames that match the style of their front door for a unified look.
When choosing new garage door windows, you also want to think about durability and security. If you live in a storm-prone area or experience inclement weather, it’s worth choosing garage door windows that are impact-resistant. The last thing you want is for your new windows to break when a storm hits, which can ruin your window investment.
Additionally, when it comes to security, it makes sense to only add garage door windows to the upper portion of the doors only. This not only provides more privacy, but also can prevent your garage from break-ins as well as people from being able to visualize your valuables.
There are several different options when it comes to size, shape, and glass type for garage door windows. Make sure to ask your window contractor about your options, as well as advice on which type would be best for your home and geographical location.
Energy-Efficient Garage Windows
Besides natural lighting just looking great, it can also cut your utility bills significantly. Natural light from windows helps get rid of the need to use extra artificial lighting, which lowers energy costs. But don’t stop there. When choosing a garage window, it is important to discuss window energy-efficiency with a contractor to explore other ways you can save energy and money.
Garage windows these days come with improved protections against UV rays through different materials, low-emissive coatings, glazes and films. Especially in garages that lack airflow, windows treated for low emissivity are crucial to keep outdoor elements, especially heat, from creeping in.
The more windows a garage has, the more risk there is for air leakage. Discussing insulation, material and coating options with a window professional ahead of time can ensure that your energy waste will not be excessive.
Next Steps for Your Garage Window Project
Whether you know exactly what type of garage window you want to install or you need a pro to walk you through your options, it’s important to connect with an experienced contractor. A professional window installer will be able to help you choose window glass and frame brands that offer the best product and price based on your specific needs.
When you decide it is time to take the next steps in your garage window renovation project, or even if you have more questions, Modernize is ready to help. We connect you with trusted, local professionals that can help make your functional, light and airy garage a reality.
Find the Right Contractor for Your Windows Project
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