Picture Windows Guide

What Are Picture Windows?

Picture windows are large windows made of a single glass pane that isn’t broken up by any lines, can’t be opened; they’re usually found in living rooms. Also called fixed windows, they offer unobstructed views of the outdoors. There’s no better way to allow lots of sunlight into your home than through a large picture window. Install one and make the outside view a focal point for your home.

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Picture Window Sizes and Prices

Picture windows come in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate different architectural styles and space requirements. The most common widths for picture windows are two-, three-, four-, six, and eight-feet wide. Standard picture window heights can range from one-foot to eight-feet high.

When selecting a picture window, it is important to think about what effect you want to create in your home. If you are trying to make a small room appear larger, the window should take up a large portion of your wall. When used in a larger space, you may want to install several fixed windows, or to use the them as part of an overall architectural feature to keep it from looking small on such a large wall.

To learn more, check out our guide to their sizes.

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Are Picture Windows Expensive?

The national average price for a picture window is $889 per window, but prices can range widely based on the size and style. You can read more about how that cost breaks down as well as prices by size on our cost guide.

Pros

1. Uninterrupted Views: The primary advantage of these windows is the clear, broad view they offer. Without any grills, sashes, or breaks in the middle, they provide an unobstructed sightline to the outside. This is especially valuable for homes with picturesque surroundings, such as waterfronts, mountains, forests, or gardens.
2. Natural Light: Due to their size and simplicity, picture windows allow a generous amount of natural light into a room. This can make spaces feel larger, more open, and more connected to the outside. It can also reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, potentially saving on energy costs.
3. Energy Efficiency: Modern picture windows often come with energy-efficient features, like double or triple glazing, low-E coatings, and gas fills. Since they don’t open or close, they usually have a tight seal, which reduces drafts and energy leaks.

Cons

1. Lack of Ventilation: One of the most significant drawbacks of picture windows is that they don’t open. This means they don’t provide any ventilation. If airflow is a priority, homeowners may need to pair these windows with other window types that open, like casement or awning windows.
2. Potential for Heat Gain/Loss: Even with modern energy-efficient features, a large expanse of glass can be a source of heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. Properly rated energy-efficient windows can mitigate this, but the potential still exists, especially if the windows are directly exposed to strong sunlight. However, thermal shades like you see in the photo above can regulate heat loss and reduce the amount of sunlight coming into the room. It’s all about your preferences.
3. Higher Replacement Costs Possible: If you have a custom-sized fixed window, it can be expensive to repair or replace. Additionally, if a large window gets damaged, you might have to replace the entire expanse of glass, which can be costly.

Can I Install a Picture Window That Opens?

Picture windows are highly desirable because of their expansive glass providing incredible views. Because of that, there’s only one alternative we would recommend here: casement windows.

Casement windows are, essentially, picture windows that open. They come in many sizes, though typically cannot get quite as large as fixed windows. If you love the way that they look but want to have the option to open it up and get some fresh air, then you may want a casement window instead.

Is a Fixed Window Right for Me?

If you are looking for a front window or living area window, want to to take advantage of spectacular views, or want to brighten up your space and make it feel bigger by adding lots of light, then yes, they are a great idea for your home.

You can install picture windows by themselves or combine larger windows with side windows (like in the dining room above) to create a more expansive effect without having to order a custom size.

Whichever window ideas you pursue, make sure you get quotes from three to four contractors to find the best price for your project.

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