A picture window is a large window that does not open and is designed to provide an unobstructed view of the outside scenery. Its purpose is to allow maximum natural light into a room while creating a seamless view to the outdoors. They are often used as a focal point in living rooms, kitchens or dining rooms.
Benefits of Picture Windows
Picture windows offer several benefits to homeowners such as:
- Maximizes natural light: These types of windows allow plenty of natural light into the room, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. They also reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.
- Increased Longevity with almost no maintenance: No moving parts or tracks means no parts to fail, in addition to there being nothing to lubricate.
- Panoramic View: They are designed to provide an unobstructed view of the outside, allowing homeowners to enjoy the scenery without any visual barriers.
- Improved energy efficiency: These types of windows are completely sealed as they do not open, which helps to insulate the home and reduce energy costs by keeping the heat inside during winter and outside during summer compared to ventilating windows.
Overall, picture windows are an excellent addition to any home seeking to enhance its natural light, outward view and energy efficiency.
Drawbacks of Picture Windows
Picture windows also have some drawbacks to consider:
- It is still glass: Although sealed in, the large glass surface area may allow more heat to escape during the winter and can increase cooling loads in the summer.
- No ventilation: Unlike other window types, picture windows cannot be opened to allow fresh air into the room. That said, they can be used in combination with ventilating windows to get the best of both worlds
- Can be more difficult to clean: Given that the window doesn’t open, the outside of the window cannot be cleaned from the inside.
- Security concerns: Although there is no moving panels or locks to maintain, all it takes is a rock to turn that window into an entrance.
- Not meant to be an emergency exit: In case of a fire or another emergency, fixed windows cannot be used as an escape route without glass breakage since they do not open.
- Costly glass replacement: Given that the window is mostly glass, and some are of considerable size, if the pane breaks it can be relatively expensive to replace.
Therefore, before installing picture windows, homeowners must weigh the benefits against these drawbacks to make an informed decision for their home.
There is no perfect window, but MacEwen Glass can help you select the right one for your home.
Check out other styles of windows here.
Picture Windows by MacEwen Glass
When choosing MacEwen Glass for your windows, you have the option to receive:
- Professional Installation by WSIB Insured Workers
- Expert Advice
- HomeTech Vinyl Windows
- Low E Coated Glass
- Energy Star Rated Windows
- Double- or Triple-Paned Insulated Glass
- Grills
- Brickmould
- New Trim Finishing
- Exterior Aluminum Capping
- Custom Colours
- Manufacturer’s Warranty
Ordering Windows
- Contact MacEwen Glass to arrange an appointment for a quote.
- We’ll come out to gather measurements and discuss available options with you.
- We’ll contact you with a quoted price and estimated lead time. Once the order is confirmed and upfront deposit paid, we order the materials.
- When MacEwen Glass receives the windows, we’ll contact you to book an installation date.
- Installation, interior/exterior finishing, glass-cleaning and on-site clean-up is performed by our installation team.
- You pay the remainder of the bill.
