Windows are an essential component of a house. No house is complete without them. A house's ventilation depends largely on windows. It is because of it that light and air are able to go in and out of your house. You are able to view that beautiful garden outside or that breathtaking view of the lake because of your windows.

Not only do windows affect the condition of our daily lives but it is also a very crucial part on the overall look of a house. A stylish window can greatly improve the look of an otherwise simple house in the same way that a poorly designed one can ruin a perfectly good-looking house.

When we think of a window, the first thing that usually comes to mind is a square glass. But there are actually various types of windows and each has its own unique design, style and function. One important key in choosing the right window for your home is understanding first the basic types of windows.

Fixed- are fixed and can't be opened. They are generally cheap and would serve well on higher parts of the house so that the light coming through it can illuminate the area below.

Double hung- are commonly used for they offer good ventilation. This type of window is basically composed of two windows on top of the other. The upper window slides down and the bottom window slides up so only half of it can be opened every time.

Casement- one of the most common windows. Its design is similar to a door so they are vertically hinged and they open outwards. Very ideal if you love to let the breeze in. They are also very easy to clean.

Awning- are very much like casement windows except that it is horizontally hinged. It leans out at the base and it is a good choice if you want some ventilation and light while still keeping your privacy at the same time.

Jalousie- louvers as they are sometimes called are types of windows consisting of strips of narrow glasses arranged in a parallel way and then set in a frame. They are usually operated by a clank and can all be opened and closed at the same time.

Sliding- are windows which slide from side to side by means of tracks. It is a popular choice because of their practicality and is also low maintenance.

Picture windows- are fixed, large windows. They provide unhampered vision of what's outside. This type of window is especially useful if you have great scenery outside your home. It also provides good lighting because of its size.

Bay windows- consist of a center window which is parallel to the wall and on each of its side are two windows attached at a 90-degree angle. They protrude outward from the main walls outside thus creating an illusion of a bigger room inside. The flow of light inside is maximized by the clever design of this type of window as well as providing more view than a typical flat window.

Hopper windows- are basically awning windows except that they are hinged at the base and it leans inward at the top. This type of window is usually set up in the basement because of its great ventilation capability.

Without windows, a house is no more than a box that's surely hot inside. Installing the appropriate windows can not only enhance the appearance and living conditions of a house but it also enables us to view and enjoy the world around us.