Window Frames

This design guide was created for Windows 7 and has not been updated for newer versions of Windows. Much of the guidance still applies in principle, but the presentation and examples do not reflect our current design guidance.

Most programs should use standard window frames. Immersive applications can have a full screen mode that hides the window frame. Consider using glass strategically for a simpler, lighter, more cohesive look.

With a window frame, users can manipulate a window and view the title and icon to identify its contents.

A typical window frame.

Note: Guidelines related to window management and branding are presented in separate articles.

Design concepts

Glass window frames

The glass window frames are a striking new aspect of the Microsoft Windows aesthetic, aiming to be both attractive and lightweight. These translucent frames give windows an open, less intrusive appearance, helping users focus on content and functionality rather than the interface surrounding it.

Glass window frames.

You can use glass strategically in small regions within a window that touch the window frame. Such regions appear to be part of the window frame, even though technically they are part of the window’s client area.

In this example, glass is used in the client area to make it look like part of the frame.

Hidden frames

Sometimes the best window frame is no frame at all. This is often the case for the primary window of immersive full screen applications that aren’t used in conjunction with other programs, such as media players, games, and kiosk applications.

Content viewers often benefit from having the option to show content full screen. Examples include Windows Internet Explorer , Windows Live Photo Gallery, Windows Movie Maker HD, Microsoft PowerPoint , and Microsoft Word.

In this example, Windows Media Player can display its content full screen.

Custom frames

Most Windows applications should use the standard window frames. However, for immersive, full screen, stand-alone applications like games and kiosk applications, it may be appropriate to use custom frames for any windows that aren’t shown full screen. The motivation to use custom frames should be to give the overall experience a unique feel, not just for branding.

Custom frames are appropriate for immersive, full screen, stand-alone applications such as games.

Guidelines

Window frames

Use standard window frames.

Exception: To give immersive full screen, stand-alone applications a unique feel:

Consider hiding the window frame of the primary window.

Consider using custom frames for secondary window.

If a custom frame is appropriate, choose a design that is lightweight and doesn’t draw too much attention to itself.

Incorrect:



In this example, the custom frame draws too much attention to itself.

Don’t add controls to a window frame. Put the controls within the window instead.

Incorrect:



Correct:



In the correct example, the control is within the client area instead of the window frame.

Full screen mode

For programs that have an optional full screen mode, to enable full screen mode:

Have a modal full screen command in the menu bar or toolbar. When the user clicks the command, show the command in its selected state.



This example shows the full screen command along with its standard shortcut key.

Use F11 for the full screen shortcut key.

If there is a toolbar and full screen mode is commonly used, also have a graphic toolbar button with a Full screen tooltip.



Examples of full screen toolbar buttons.

To revert back from full screen mode:

• Have a modal full screen command in the menu bar or toolbar. When the user clicks the command, show the command in its cleared state.
• Use F11 for the full screen shortcut key. If not already assigned, Esc can also be used for this purpose.

Glass

Standard window frames use glass automatically in Windows, but you can also use glass in regions that touch the window frame.

• Consider using glass strategically in small regions touching the window frame without text. Doing so can give a program a simpler, lighter, more cohesive look by making the region appear to be part of the frame.
• 
• In this example, glass focuses the user’s attention on the content instead of the controls.
• Don’t use glass in situations where a plain window background would be more attractive or easier to use.

Correct:

In this example, glass is used to give the Alt+Tab window a lightweight appearance. Glass works for this window because it consists of graphics and a single, strong text label.

Incorrect:

In this incorrect example, the use of glass is distracting. A plain window background would be a better choice.

Which type of window do I need?

Single Hung Windows

Avg. Cost: $170-$360/window

Single Hung Windows are one of the most common window types, a single hung window offers a bottom window sash that is able to be opened in an up and down motion.

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Double Hung Windows

Avg. Cost: $450-$600/window

Double hung windows are the most common type of window homeowners install. It is very similar in looks to a single hung window, except both the bottom and top window sash are operable to make for better air flow and ability to easily clean.

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Arched Windows

Avg. Cost: $325-$500/window

An arched window is a beautiful rounded top window that is often added to other window types for added design and aesthetics.

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Awning Windows

Avg. Cost: $420-$760/window

An awning window opens by being pushed outward from the bottom. They are perfect for rainy days and allow for the window to be open for air circulation without letting water into the home.

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Bay Windows

Avg. Cost: $1,150-$3,550/window

Bay windows are a beautiful addition to living room or kitchens offering a beautiful view to your outside area. A bay window is usually built with a middle large picture window and then two angled side windows.

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Bow Windows

Avg. Cost: $1,400-$3,800/window

Bow windows are very similar to a bay window installation, it utilizes multiple windows of your choice to create a circular curve on the outside of the home and giving you extended views of your front or backyard area.

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Casement Windows

Avg. Cost: $270-$750/window

Casement windows are a very popular replacement window type. They are often a single pane of glass that can be cranked open and out from the side. Many homeowners put double casement windows next to each other opening up on each side.

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Egress Windows

Avg. Cost: $1,000-$5,000/window

Egress windows are often required in many states as an escape route from a basement area of a home. They must be a certain size, so that it creates an easy exit in case of an emergency.

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Garden Windows

Avg. Cost: $1,000-$4,000/window

Garden windows are designed as mini protruding windows that act as shelves that can house plants and flowers so that they can be seen from the outside all while getting sunlight while inside the home.

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Glass Block Windows

Avg. Cost: $365-$785/window

Glass block windows are often popular for as replacement windows for bathrooms or basements. They are perfect for rooms that need light, but also offer a little more privacy as they are not transparent and often can be frosted.

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Hopper Windows

Avg. Cost: $265-$720/window

Hopper windows are a great window for any room with limited wall space for a new window. They are known for providing quality insulation while allowing light into a room. They open from the top and fold inward into the home.

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Jalousie Windows

Avg. Cost: $175-$375/window

Jalousie windows are often popular in coastal areas and are great for allowing in a nice breeze on a cool day. These windows have slats of metal or glass that can be opened or closed from the inside.

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Picture Windows

Avg. Cost: $245-$850/window

Picture windows are beautiful often large single pane windows that can make any living space brighter and make the room seem larger. They are fixed windows that cannot be opened, but are often paired with other windows for design and flexible functionality.

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Round Circle Windows

Avg. Cost: $250-$750/window

Circle or rounded windows can bring a unique aesthetic to any room. They can come in half round, oval, or elliptical styles.

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Skylight Windows

Avg. Cost: $900-$2,130/window

If you have limited wall space for installing windows for natural light, skylights are often a great choice. Skylight windows are installed directly into the ceiling and offer natural lighting all day.

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Sliding Windows

Avg. Cost: $320-$1,300/window

Sliding windows are a great option for elongated wall space. They have two window sashes that slide horizontally across each other when opening and closing. They also can make a small room look larger in some cases.

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Storm Windows

Avg. Cost: $200-$460/window

Storm windows are a type of window that you can often install on your own. They are popular in areas with heavy storms and coastal regions prone to hurricanes. They give your current window a little added protection and are much more affordable to replace.

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Transom Windows

Avg. Cost: $200-$575/window

Transom windows are a type of accent window that are often paired with a beautiful front door entrance. They can also be used to accentuate other window types and create unique designs by being installed around them.

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Replacement Window Types

When you are looking for new home windows, there are tons of replacement options to fit any home style or budget. Each window type serves a different purpose and there are many different windows to choose from. Here you can find a list of 18 window styles, their average costs to install, pictures of each, and a little bit of information to help you decide which new home windows you would like to install in your home. You may also be interested in researching some of the best window brands to choose from as well as the average installation costs for new windows.

Here is a list of the top replacement window types and the different benefits of each:

1. Single Hung Windows

The major difference between a single hung window and a double hung window is how the different types of window sections move. A single hung window usually costs in between $170 to $360 per window. With single hung windows, the bottom window panel or lower sash moves up and down, and the upper sash remains stationary. This means that when you open the window, the upper sash is covered on the inside. Find more details about single-hung windows here.

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2. Double Hung Windows

A double-hung window is similar to a single hung window however both the lower sash as well as the upper sash can move up and down and usually tilt out for easy cleaning and maintenance in this common window type. A double–hung vinyl window will cost between $450 to $600. A double hung wood windows would be a more expensive option. Double hung windows are one of the most common replacement windows that homeowners install.

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3. Arched Windows

Arched windows have rounded tops that add an architectural design to any home. The average cost for arched window installation is around $325 to $500 per window. Most arched windows do not open or close and are often installed above standard windows that provide ventilation. Some arched windows can open the same way a casement window does.

4. Awning Windows

Awning windows are ideal for climates with a lot of rain, thanks to the way the window creates a water-resistant awning when opened. A replacement awning window costs between $420 to $760 per window for installation.

5. Bay Windows

Bay windows protrude from an exterior wall and create a small shelf in the home. Bay windows rely on flat windows set into an angled frame that are built out of the home. A bay window costs more to install as it is a larger window that requires a skilled installer. The average cost to install a bay window could be anywhere from $1,150 to $3,550. This usually consists of a center window, from which two side windows are angled at 30 to 40 degrees.

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6. Bow Windows

Bow windows rely on custom curved windows that create a circular area along the outside of the home. Depending on the amount of window panels you want to use to create the curved bow window, a bow window can sometimes run more expensive than a full bay window. A large bow window installation would cost around $1,400 to $3800.

7. Casement Windows

Casement windows swing out to the side or up to open. This allows the window to be constructed of solid glass and offers a less obstructed view overall. New casement windows cost anywhere from $270 to $750 per window installation. A casement window usually comes with one casement window pane on the left and one on the right as seen in the photo below.

8. Egress Windows

Egress windows are designed for safety more than anything else. These types of windows provide an escape route when an emergency such as a fire, for example, prevents you from exiting through a door. Egress windows are typically installed in the basement of your home. Some counties require you to install an egress window in your home for safety laws. An egress window may require an area to be excavated in order to install properly, so egress window installation costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on your home.

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9. Garden Windows

Garden windows cost around $1,000 to $4,000 to install. Garden windows are essentially mini bay windows that are meant for plants. They’ve earned their name because they act like tiny little greenhouses that protrude from the inside of your home.

10. Glass Block Windows

Glass block windows are most often considered accents and added to a section of the home to increase light flow. Glass block window costs will vary for installation from $365 to $785. Most commonly, glass block window types are frosted or adorned with a patterned design, which provides simultaneous light and privacy. They are ideal for use in bathrooms, basements, and other private spaces.

11. Hopper Windows

Hopper windows open from the top and usually crank open to tip down. They make efficient use of compact spaces, which is why they’re commonly found in basements or bathroom. Hopper windows cost to install can range from $265 to $720 per hopper window. They’re also known for providing excellent insulation, because they seal up against the frame when closed all the way.

12. Jalousie Windows

Jalousie windows are a unique window style that splits into many different slats of metal or glass. The windows open like a set of blinds. Simply crank the lever and the slats tilt to the side, which creates a series of gaps for air to flow through. Jalousie window can cost anywhere from $175 to $375 to replace.

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13. Picture Windows

Whether the view outside your home is a lush green backyard or a mountain range, the best way to fully enjoy your view is with beautiful large picture windows. Picture windows are fixed windows that can not be opened. Picture windows will cost from $245 to $850 depending on size. Picture windows are large window types that don’t have any breaks or visible frames, resulting in an unobstructed beautiful view.

14. Round Circle Windows

Round, half round, elliptical, or oval—the round circle windows category encompasses many different shapes that add architectural interest to your home. In particular, round windows give your space a nod to historical decor, such as Victorian or Gothic era structures. Circle windows cost anywhere from $250 to $750.

15. Skylight Windows

Skylight window installation costs anywhere from $900 to $2,130 for total installation. If you want to add more natural light to your home but have limited options with your exterior walls, a skylight window is an excellent window style option. It’s essentially a window for your roof, and it installs similarly to a roof vent.

16. Sliding Windows

Sliding windows have two sections that are usually made from single windows, and one of the sections slides horizontally overtop of the other to open or close. A sliding window installation costs $320 to $1,300 since they come in large sizes.

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17. Storm Windows

Storm windows are exterior windows that install right in the same frame as your current windows. Storm windows add another layer of blocking out drafts and heat loss perfect for when cold weather rolls in. Storm windows are also perfect for areas who often get inclement weather. Exterior storm windows installation costs can range from $200 to $460 and are popular in coastal areas.

18. Transom Windows

Transom windows are decorative accent window types that help break up space or add a unique design focal point. A transom window is the decorative windows that you see installed above doors in upscale homes, or even above other windows in some instances. Installing transom windows cost $200 to $575 and make for a beautiful home accent. They’re typically a semicircle shape, but they can be square or rectangular as well.

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Custom Windows

When you have a space that you want to fill and standard types of windows aren’t meeting your needs, you can go with a custom window instead. Custom windows are crafted from dimensions that you or a professional measures in your home.

Some window replacement costs can be negotiated with bigger projects or discounted with specials being run in your area by window installers. Use our local window cost calculator to break down your exact project estimate by window type and have a guide to make sure you are getting the best price in your area. If you are unsure about the specific window types you want to install, it may be more beneficial to speak directly to local contractors and get free estimates with Modernize.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are around 18 different window types you can have installed or replaced in your home all with different styles, window frame options, energy efficiency ratings, and glass options. See pictures and installation costs through the link above. The most common window types installed in homes are:

• Double Hung Windows (two window sashes, opens vertically)
• Casement Windows (rectangular windows that open outwards with a handle)
• Picture Windows ( large fixed square windows that don’t open, great for views)
• Bay Windows ( multi-window style that protrudes from the home and can include a seating area)

Each window type has a benefit or style that homeowners will want to review to see which one fits within their budget and correlates with their home design.

Some window replacement costs can be negotiated with bigger projects or discounted with specials being run in your area by window installers. Use our local window cost calculator to break down your exact project estimate by window type and have a guide to make sure you are getting the best price in your area.

If you are unsure about the specific window types you want to install, it may be more beneficial to speak directly to local contractors and get free estimates with Modernize.