Picture Windows Guide

What Are Picture Windows?

Picture windows are typically large windows that have a single pane of glass that is not broken up by any lines, can not be opened, and are often found in living rooms. Because they don’t open/close, they are also referred to as a fixed window.

They offer a nice clear view of the outdoors that is not split or altered in any way. When you want to create the illusion of an indoor/outdoor space, picture windows can let in a great deal of sunlight and connect your indoor living space with your natural outside surroundings.

There is no better way to admire nature from within your home than to look at it through a massive picture window. Install an expansive picture window and make the outside view a focal point for your home.

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Picture Window Sizes

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.

To learn more, check out our guide to picture window sizes.

How Much Do Picture Windows Cost?

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 picture windows cost guide.

Should I Get a Picture Window for My Home?

Picture windows, with their expansive and uninterrupted views, are a favorite for many homeowners. However, like all window styles, they have their advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a look at three pros and three cons of picture windows as you decide if they are right choice for your house. We’ll dive into each of these in more detail below.

Pros of Picture Windows

1. Uninterrupted views. The primary advantage of picture 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 of Picture Windows

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 picture 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.
3. Higher replacement costs possible. If you have a custom-sized picture window, it can be expensive to repair or replace. Additionally, if a large picture 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 picture windows. If you love the way that picture windows 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 Installing a Picture Window a Good Idea?

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, picture windows are a great idea for your home.

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

Whichever picture 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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