Kitchen Windows - Zissil

Choosing good replacement windows for a kitchen involves planning ahead, taking into account a window's venting, energy performance and condensation build-up. This will be dependent on the available space and planned design of the kitchen as well as the appliances and furnishings that will be placed in the kitchen.

Framing material options for replacement kitchen windows include all-wood frames. wood clad frames. vinyl frames. aluminum frames. fiberglass frames and composite material frames. Each framing material offers a different level of thermal insulation so the choice will be dependent on the climate and the homeowner's interest in purchasing energy efficient kitchen windows.

Cooking creates moisture and humidity within the kitchen. This often results in a build-up of condensation on aluminum frame windows in cold-weather climates. In such areas, an alternate window frame is recommended.

Designing a kitchen with windows involves an overview of the available space and the placement of the kitchen appliances and furnishings. The architectural design may place the stove and oven near a window to facilitate venting or place a kitchen counter next to a window where the homeowner can enjoy the view or watch children playing in the yard while working. Window styles must take into account the activity that will be taking place near each window to ensure that the window's placement or opening mechanics will not interfere with the functions of the kitchen, or may actually enhance the kitchen's functions.

Replacement window alternatives for a kitchen area include casement windows, double and single-hung windows, gliding windows and bay and bow windows.

casement windows open fully, offering an especially significant venting option for kitchens. If the kitchen area is small, an outward swinging casement window is indicated so that it does not interfere with the movements within the kitchen.

Double hung and single-hung replacement windows present an option that allows for adequate kitchen lighting and venting. Since heat rises, a double hung window allows for better kitchen ventilation as the steam from the hot foot rises and can be released through the top of the open double-hung window into the air outside.

Horizontal Sliding windows are an economical replacement kitchen window option. Horizontal sliding windows are available as either XO models (in which one sash is fixed while the other side slides back and forth) or as X0X (in which the middle sash is fixed while the two side sashes glide back and forth.

Many kitchens, especially those with a breakfast nook or other eating area, include a bay or bow window. These windows provide added space, an extra seating area and an opportunity to incorporate a unique window design as part of the kitchen's architectural plan. Kitchen bay and bow windows may be comprised of all operable windows (casements or double hungs) or a combination of picture windows and operable windows.

Adding an awning replacement window to a kitchen increases the kitchen's ventilation performance. Awning windows may be installed singly, in a continuous row below the kitchen's ceiling or above another operating or non-operating window.

Interior decorators and architects have suggestions for homeowners to incorporate their window installation plan to the advantage of the kitchen's design.

Homeowners may add a fabric roller-blind to a kitchen window to let the natural light in while preserving privacy. Light or neutral tones are advised. If the blind is positioned near the sink or counter where it may get greasy food stains, a washable fabric is indicated. Another window addition possibility involves aluminum or wooden venetian blinds which allow the homeowner to control the amount of light coming into the kitchen. These blinds should be easy to clean. Timber blinds should be painted or stained in a tone that complements the kitchen walls and cabinets.

A low window placement may serve as a featured center of a kitchen. A low window can act as storage space for kitchen items or, with a nearby shelf, as an opportunity to display a collection.

If wall space does not permit enough area for the desired daylighting and venting for the desired quantity of window installations, the kitchen design may incorporate a continuous line of windows situated above kitchen cabinets or appliances.