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Window Types 101
When replacing windows, homeowners are often surprised by the range of styles available. There are well over two dozen window designs to consider, from variations on classic styles to options unique to specific needs and spaces.
Understanding the different types of windows makes it easier to choose the right fit for your home. This guide covers each window type and how it is used, so you can have an informed conversation with your installer.
Standard sizes for any of these window types are generally less expensive. Average pricing for each type is included below. Custom sizing or non-standard configurations will affect the price per unit.
Table of contents
Arched windows
Arched windows feature a top portion rounded in the shape of an arch, drawing on Roman architectural style. Common in larger homes, they can also work well in smaller spaces as a design accent.
Low maintenance is one of their practical advantages. Cleaning is straightforward across the different types of arched windows, including combinations of frosted or stained glass near the top with clear panes below. Keep in mind that arched windows are best suited to spaces where ventilation is not a priority, as most do not open. For a version that opens, consider a single hung window modified with a fixed arch above.
Arched window costs vary based on size and configuration, with an average range of $325 to $800.
Awning windows
Awning windows include a sash hinged along the top that tilts outward from the bottom. They can be operated manually or with a remote control opener.
The simple design suits a range of home styles and allows fresh air in even when it is raining. Low-maintenance and easy to operate, awning windows work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Pricing varies based on size, glass type, and frame materials, with an average range of $420 to $760 per unit.
Basement windows
Basement windows are typically small rectangular windows located where the wall meets the basement ceiling. They bring natural light into basement spaces and may be fixed or sliding designs that allow fresh air in.
Many basement windows are made with aluminum rather than wood to resist moisture and decay. Interior-mounted screens are common, making them practical to leave open in warmer weather.
Basement window costs vary based on size, with an average range of $100 to $700 per window. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Bay windows
Bay windows extend outward from your home's exterior, creating more interior space and bringing in natural light. The outward design frames a more expansive exterior view and adds visual interest to both the inside and outside of your home. Bay windows work well in living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms where extra space and natural light add the most value. Bay window costs average between $1,150 and $3,550 depending on size and glass type. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Bow windows
Bow windows also extend outward and typically contain four or five panes for a wider, curved profile. Their open design suits rooms where expansive outdoor views are a priority. Bow window costs start at $2,000 per unit. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Casement windows
Casement windows are composed of single sashes that span the entire window opening. They are hinged on the left or right side of the frame and designed to swing outward. Some types are designed to swing inward.
Easy to operate and low-maintenance, casement windows allow good airflow and suit a range of room types. Size limitations are possible but uncommon.
Casement window costs typically range from $270 to $750 per unit, depending on materials, glass type, and other factors. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Cottage windows
Cottage windows are a type of double hung window, with one important distinction: the upper sash is generally shorter than the lower one.
Low maintenance and suited to a range of home styles, cottage windows offer a classic look. Cleaning can be slightly more involved due to the different sizes of the two sashes.
Cottage windows start at an average of $400 per unit. Final costs vary based on materials and glass type. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Deadlites (Sash-Only) windows
Deadlites are sometimes confused with picture windows, as the two types share a number of features. The key difference is that picture windows come with frames. Deadlites do not.
Without a frame, deadlites are straightforward to clean and offer a similar effect to a picture window at a lower price point.
Deadlite costs typically range from $150 to $500, making them a practical option for smaller budgets or homes with a clean, minimal aesthetic.
Custom designed windows
Custom-designed windows cover a wide range of non-standard shapes and configurations built to fit specific spaces. The shape is typically something other than square or rectangular.
Common examples include half-moon windows, curved designs, and geometric shapes. Any non-standard form that suits your home's architecture can be considered.
Pricing for custom-designed windows varies based on shape, size, materials, and glass type, with no fixed range. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative to discuss your design and receive a quote.
Dormer windows
Dormer windows are commonly used as part of an attic design, bringing natural light and airflow into the enclosed space. They suit any home design but are most common in homes with angled roofs.
Dormer windows can draw on design elements from other window styles and are often built to complement the windows on the floors below. Decorative dormers are also available for homes where the look is the priority rather than ventilation or natural light.
Pricing varies based on style, size, materials, and glass type. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for an estimate.
Double Hung windows
Double hung windows are one of the most common window types in North America. The design includes two sashes that can be opened and closed independently, giving you full control over airflow into the home. Double and triple pane options are available, with triple pane providing greater energy efficiency for Canadian climates. Contact your Canadian Choice representative to find the right fit for your home. Double hung windows generally cost between $200 and $350 per unit. Additional features and material choices may increase the unit cost."
End Vent windows
End vent windows combine a fixed centre panel with operable windows on each side. A common configuration pairs a picture window in the middle with casement or awning sashes on either end, adding ventilation without sacrificing the view. The operable sashes are available in raise and lower, sliding, or awning styles to suit your home's design. Pricing varies based on size, materials, and sash configuration. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Egress windows
Also called an escape window, an egress window is large enough for a person to move through in an emergency. The most common installation location is the basement, where it is typically paired with an egress well on the outside for safe exit. On upper floors, an egress window may include a fire escape or retractable ladder on the home's exterior.
The key design requirement is a window that can be quickly unlocked from inside, opened wide enough to exit, and paired with a means of reaching ground level safely.
Egress window costs start at around $2,500 and vary based on installation requirements, including any ladder, steps, or egress wall needed. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Garden Style windows
A garden style window is similar to a bay window design but scaled to fit over a kitchen sink. Rather than spanning floor to ceiling, it sits in the upper half of a wall, extending outward from the house.
The four-sided frame creates a small interior ledge suitable for herbs, plants, or a shelf. The outward projection also adds a modest amount of visual space to the kitchen.
Garden style window costs range from $1,000 to $4,000 per window depending on size and features. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Glass Block windows
Glass block windows add privacy and detail to any space. Many blocks are frosted while others allow light in while preventing visibility from outside. Glass blocks can also be used to create interior partitions.
Available in stained, frosted, or tinted finishes, glass block windows provide strong insulation by creating an effective barrier against outside weather. Note that glass block windows are fixed and cannot be opened.
Glass block window costs start at around $200 for standard sizes. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for custom design pricing.
Hopper windows
Hopper windows share a number of features with casement windows. They are typically single-sashed and easy to operate. The key difference is that hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and the sash tilts inward rather than swinging outward.
This makes them a practical choice for narrow spaces where outward-opening windows are not possible. The rectangular sash profile also adds a clean visual element to the exterior.
Hopper windows typically cost between $100 and $600 per unit depending on size and materials.
Jalousie windows
Also called a louvre window, the jalousie design uses parallel sections of glass, louvres, or acrylic rectangular panels that tilt open to allow air in. They can also be closed completely to block airflow.
Similar to awning windows, jalousie windows allow fresh air in even when it is raining. Tilting the louvres slightly brings in airflow while managing moisture.
Jalousie windows are generally among the more affordable window types, with an average cost of $175 to $375 per window.
Oriel windows
An oriel window is a form of bay window that protrudes from the home and adds a small amount of interior space. It is generally shorter and narrower than a bay window and is commonly found on the upper floors of multi-storey homes.
Oriel window designs range from traditional to contemporary, with options in aluminum and wood frames. They add both an ornamental and practical element to the exterior.
Oriel windows start at an average of $1,000 per unit. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Picture windows
Picture windows are fixed single panes that provide a wide, unobstructed view. Because they cannot be opened, they suit any room where the priority is light and view rather than ventilation. Living rooms and dens are common locations.
Picture windows include a frame that can be simple or ornate depending on your preference. They can be dressed with a window treatment or left unadorned.
Glass options include tinted or treated panes that maintain the view while managing visibility from outside.
Picture window costs range from $250 to $650 per unit depending on features and glass type.
Round windows
Round windows may be fixed or include hinged framed panes that swing inward or outward. They are available in a range of sizes to suit the space.
Round windows work well in spaces where standard rectangular styles are not the right fit, such as a small landing along a staircase, a loft, or as an accent above a more traditional window.
Standard round window sizes start at around $100. Custom designs typically start at $250 and vary based on dimensions and materials.
Single Hung windows
Single hung windows include two sashes, with only the lower sash able to open and close. The sash moves up and down rather than tilting outward, making them a practical choice for areas where outward clearance is limited.
As the sash moves up and down rather than tilting outward, it’s a great choice for areas where there’s not a lot of room outside. The availability of this window type also makes it one of the most affordable on the market. Choose from wood, aluminum, or vinyl for the material of choice.
Available in wood, aluminum, or vinyl, single hung windows are among the more affordable window types. Standard sizes range from $100 to $250 per unit. Custom sizing or additional features such as an inward-tilting sash will increase the cost.
Skylight windows
Skylights are installed in the ceiling or roof to bring natural light into the space. Common locations include vaulted ceilings on a main floor, upper floor bedrooms, and bathrooms where natural light and privacy are both needed. Most skylights use a framework that supports reinforced glass panes, improving energy efficiency and resistance to breakage.
Skylight costs start at an average of $500 and vary based on roof type, pane configuration (ventilating or fixed), and whether the design is flat or tubular. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Sliding Tilt windows
Sliding tilt windows use two sashes that slide horizontally along a track and tilt inward for easy cleaning from inside the home. The sliding operation requires minimal effort, making them a practical choice for any room regardless of floor level. Both sides of the glass are accessible without leaning out or using a ladder.
Sliding tilt windows are priced competitively with other sliding window styles, with an average cost of $150 to $400 per window. Contact your local Canadian Choice representative for a precise quote.
Storm windows
Storm windows add a protective layer over your existing windows, shielding your home from harsh weather without replacing what you already have. Most homeowners install them in winter and remove them when warm weather returns, though many choose to leave them in place year round.
Available in single and double hung designs, storm windows are built to match your existing windows. They reduce heat loss, block cold air, and add an extra layer of home security, all without obstructing your view.
Storm windows are one of the most affordable window upgrades available. Prices start around $90.
Three-Panel Slider windows
Three-panel slider windows are wider than standard two-panel designs, making them a strong fit for larger wall openings. All three panels glide along dual tracks, so you can position each sash exactly where you want it.
Most three-panel sliders use three equal-width panels, but you can also choose a wider central pane flanked by two narrower side panels. This layout gives you the clean look of traditional end vent windows without any sash that swings inward or outward.
Pricing is in line with other sliding window styles. Most three-panel slider windows start around $200.
Transoms windows
Transom windows come in fixed and operable designs and work above exterior doors, interior doors, and other window types. They bring in additional natural light while keeping your privacy intact.
Operable transoms improve airflow throughout your home. Hinged styles open inward or outward at the bottom, while sliding glass panel options are also available.
Fixed transom windows start just above $100. Operable designs start at $150 and up.
Two-Panel Slider windows
Also known as the basic sliding window, two-panel slider windows use two sashes that glide along tracks for easy ventilation control. They are simple to operate and can be secured firmly, making them a practical and reliable choice for any room.
Two-panel sliders fit most home styles and are straightforward to install. Day-to-day cleaning and upkeep is simple, with no complicated hardware to maintain.
Pricing is competitive with single and double hung windows. Two-panel slider windows start around $100.
Choosing the right window type comes down to your home's layout, your priorities, and the climate you live in. Our licensed project managers are here to help you find the right fit for every room. Book a free consultation and we will walk you through your options from start to finish.