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Bathroom window buying guide
Changing your bathroom window can help you maximize available light while maintaining privacy. When choosing a bathroom window, you should consider lighting, privacy, and ventilation. A window with the perfect mix of these features can help you create the bathroom of your dreams.
What is a bathroom window?
A bathroom window protects your home from the elements while offering natural light. You should be able to open at least one window in your bathroom to allow for proper ventilation. Opening the window for 15 minutes after showering can decrease the likelihood of your bathroom developing mold or mildew. A good bathroom window also offers privacy.
How to buy the best bathroom windows
Bathroom windows are available in various types, sizes, and prices. Additionally, consider whether you plan to use a window covering, like curtains, or if you prefer the window itself to provide privacy. This guide includes bathroom window privacy ideas to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Types of bathroom windows
There are many types of bathroom windows available. Below are several common choices for homeowners.
Crank windows
This type of window opens and closes using a hand crank. Crank windows come in two styles: casement and awning. Casement windows open to the outside, like a shutter, which can allow rain and snow to get inside. Awning windows open from the bottom and keep out rain and snow, even when open.
Crank windows can accommodate window treatments, including any of your bathroom window curtain ideas.
Hopper windows
Hopper windows open downward. They provide excellent ventilation but allow rain and snow inside the bathroom. These windows are typically placed higher on the wall, so they do not require window treatments.
Textured glass or glass block windows
Textured glass windows provide privacy without any window treatments. Textured glass is available in various textures and patterns, which each offering a unique level of transparency and light filtration. The more difficult the glass is to see through, the less light it allows inside the bathroom. Homeowners who do not like the appearance of window treatments often choose textured glass windows.
Glass block windows comprise stacked bricks made of opaque glass.
Transom windows
A transom window is a single long, skinny window placed high on the wall, often above the shower. This type of accent window provides ample sunlight, and its location encourages privacy.
These decorative windows do not open and provide no ventilation.
Choose the right size
The ideal size of your bathroom window depends on your budget and how much light you want. For example, a wall of windows would cost more than a small transom window above the shower. You may also want to consider your desired level of privacy and whether you plan to use a bathroom window covering.
Compare bathroom window costs
Any simple bathroom window generally costs less than a window with complicated mechanisms. Transom windows are typically the most affordable, followed by sliding windows and hopper windows. Crank windows are usually the most expensive. However, crank windows let out less air than other options and may reduce heating costs.
Read bathroom window reviews
When shopping for a new bathroom window, reading customer reviews can help you make an informed decision. Visit Freshome.com for advice and insights on installing a new bathroom window.
Installation
The price of installation is one of the most significant costs of a new bathroom window. Installation costs include labor and supplies, as well as necessary changes to the structure of your home. Installation costs are lowest when replacing a window with one of the same size. However, any necessary adjustments to the window frame or the siding of your house increase the installation cost.
Bathroom window brands
When choosing a bathroom window, consider various brands and manufacturers. Researching options can help you select a window that seals tightly and is energy efficient. To discover the best replacement window brands of 2019, read reviews at Freshome.com.