What are the Best Windows for Your Kitchen?

If you’re looking to redesign your kitchen, then it’s likely that you’re considering several elements in the design process. Perhaps windows are one of these key considerations: kitchen windows serve many purposes besides bringing in natural light and opening up the space, such as also helping with air circulation and insulation.

With all these considerations in mind, if you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen windows, it can be tough to answer which are the best ones to get, or which options you should choose.

What Should You Look for in Kitchen Windows?

When looking for the best kitchen windows, you might consider the following factors:

• Ease of use: It’s not uncommon to have a window above your kitchen sink, or countertops. Given these difficult-to-reach locations, opening your windows can be a challenge. If this is the case for your current windows, you might consider changing them out so that they’re easier to open - for example, double-hung windows are easy to open and close, thanks to springs and weights.
• Air circulation: The main purpose of your kitchen is to cook food. However, this often results in built up steam or smoke. Therefore, you want to get kitchen windows that offer the best possible air circulation. If maximum ventilation is a priority for you, then casement windows may be the best choice, as they crank open and can scoop the air from a passing breeze.
• Overall look and design: Gorgeous clerestory windows in your kitchen can make a difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen’s design.
• Natural lighting: Good windows have the ability to bring in natural light. Lighting can powerfully open up a space, especially if you have a smaller kitchen.

In addition to general points of consideration, you might also look at factors more specific to windows, including:

• Panes and shapes: When looking for the right kitchen windows, you should consider the different shapes, including square, rectangular, and even circular. How these windows will look in your kitchen will depend on where they’ll go, and your kitchen’s style. You’ll also want to think about the number of panes: pane options include single pane, double pane, and triple pane windows. The more panes a window has, the better the energy efficiency and ability to reduce condensation.
• Size: When it comes to kitchen windows, size is important, so choose wisely. While large windows will give your kitchen plenty of light, they may not be best for a smaller kitchen, since they could take away from valuable cabinet and appliance space. Make sure you carefully consider the size of your kitchen relative to the size of your windows.
• Quantity: The number of windows you’d like to install in your kitchen will play a major role in your window choice. Of course, if you want a lot of windows in your kitchen, they’d likely need to be smaller to make the best use of your space.
• Material: While glass makes up most of a window’s construction, the frame’s material often varies. Wood, steel, aluminum, and vinyl are the most common types.

Best Options for Windows in Your Kitchen

Now that you’ve looked over important considerations for kitchen windows, let’s discuss the many styles you can choose from.

• Casement windows: These windows swing open like a door thanks to their hinges, and offer plenty of ventilation.
• Double-hung windows: You can open double-hung windows from top to bottom, allowing you to easily control air circulation.
• Sliding windows: Sliding windows are a great choice for kitchens because they don’t take up a lot of space and are relatively easy to open and close, so placing them above your kitchen sink or counters shouldn’t be a problem. Sliding windows also offer great control over air circulation
• Garden windows: For a more natural design reminiscent of a greenhouse, you might opt for garden windows. Also known as greenhouse window in the kitchen, garden windows extend past the facade of your home and have glass on each side (including the top), providing extra space and maximum sunlight for your houseplants.
• Awning windows: As they’re hinged on the top and open outward from the bottom, awning windows provide plenty of ventilation and protection from the rain–even while open.
• Bay windows: If your kitchen has plenty of space, a kitchen bay window may be a great option. Bay windows are a combination of three fixed windows that join together; this allows them to let in plenty of light and create a panoramic view. As a result, your kitchen will feel more open.

How to Plan Out Your New Kitchen

The layout of your kitchen will determine the best place to install your windows. Below are some key considerations for window placement:

• Privacy: If privacy is a concern, then your window shouldn’t face the street or your neighbour’s home. If this isn’t feasible, consider a privacy drape or mirrored film.
• Safety: Be careful not to place your window above any cooking surfaces. This is not only inconvenient: it’s also unsafe. That’s because you run the risk of burning yourself while trying to open and close your window.
• Functionality: Traditionally, windows are often above the kitchen sink, allowing you to gaze out while cleaning. This also offers more functionality, allowing you to easily open or close them. However, newer homes offer more flexibility, which, in some cases, makes windows difficult to access. Make sure to place your window in a spot where it’s easily accessible, and not in an area that can obstruct its view.
• Location: Want to watch your children play outside while you cook or clean? Consider windows facing the backyard, and above your sink or countertop. This is a great example of how your preferences or priorities play a role in your new kitchen window’s location.

FAQs

What type of window is best for kitchens?

There’s no one type of window that’s best for kitchens. There are several, including bay windows, side sliding windows, garden windows, awning windows, and casement windows. Which one you choose will depend on your individual tastes and preferences.

Should I have a window in the kitchen?

Yes, adding a window to your kitchen can help improve ventilation, as well as make the space look bigger and more open.

What kind of window goes over a sink?

Casement windows are perhaps the best for placement over the kitchen sink, as they make opening and closing them a breeze.

Cost to replace windows

Conclusion

When it comes to kitchen window ideas, it’s best to carefully think about the ideal ones for your kitchen. If you ever need help making a choice, or don’t know how to install kitchen window, you can look to the professionals at Canadian Choice Windows & Doors. Feel free to schedule a consultation today.