Operating Windows

{{Infobox
|title = Operating Windows
|image        = [[File:Space holder.jpg|215px|alt=Operating Windows]]
|header5 = Other Names: 
|data6   = Operating Replacement Windows, Replacement Windows that Open
|header7 = Description:
|data8   = Operating windows increase air flow into a room but they admit the same amount of daylighting as non-operating windows.}} 

Homeowners have their choice of purchasing either operating and non-operating windows when they create their replacement window design for their home. For most applications, replacement operating windows are the best solution, but not always.

For replacement window applications that require increasing the air ventilation and cross breezes, an operating window is the only option. Operating windows function with a moveable sash that shifts within a window frame. Sashes reposition by moving horizontally or vertically along the frame's inner tracks, swinging on hinges either inwardly or outwardly, shifting back and forth with strap hinges or tilting and/or turning on pivot hinges.

== Advantages of Operating Windows ==
Operating windows offer several advantages over non-operating windows. 

=== Ventilation ===
Operating windows are the windows of choice for room designs that require ventilation or increased ventilation. Both operating and non-operating replacement windows allow the passage of light through the window's glass, but air flow is accomplished only when using operating windows. 

=== Design Features ===

Operating replacement windows offer a larger variety of design features than non-operating windows. Window accessories and window treatments are available for both operating and non-operating windows. 

== Considerations of Operating Windows ==
Homeowners should review a number of considerations when deciding whether or not to purchase a replacement operating window.

=== Size ===
The mechanisms used to operate an opening window can limit the size options for an operating window. In general, large fixed non-operating windows offer more stability than operating windows and can be installed as extremely large window sizes. The operating mechanisms employed to open and close windows vary so homeowners must check which operating windows are available in which sizes. The framing materials of these windows can also impact on the available size of an operating window. 

=== Cost ===
When the glazing options, framing materials and sizes of operating windows and non-operating windows are equal, the price of operating windows is higher than the cost of non-operating windows. Required opening mechanisms and weather resistant additions for operating windows add to a replacement opening window's price. 

=== Opening Limitations ===
The operating mechanisms of opening windows create limitations. Casement windows swing open, either inwardly or outwardly, impacting on walkways or furnishings that are located near the swinging sashes. Single and double hung windows require that the person who is opening the window stand directly underneath the window so that they have necessary access to operate the window. Each replacement window's style of operation impacts on the house design.  

=== Safety === 
Operating windows must be secured by latches, locks, child-proof bars and other security apparatus to ensure the safety and security of the home. Non-operating windows to do not require such items. 

=== Style ===
Many opening windows have either a horizontal or vertical bar that impedes a full view of the outdoors. These windows include single hung windows, double hung windows, gliding windows and some double-opening casement windows. Some casement windows are manufactured with two opening sashes that do not have any middle bar to obstruct the view but consumers must check with each window manufacturer to ascertain whether or not they offer this type of casement window. 

=== Energy Efficiency ===
Opening windows have more gaps and breaks than non-operating windows and require increased weather proofing and insulating enhancements to ensure that the window offers optimal energy performance. 

=== Shapes ===
The selection of operating windows does not include the variety of shapes that is featured among non-operating windows. 

== Framing Materials for Operating Windows ==
Operating windows are available in a variety of framing materials including vinyl, aluminum, composite, wood, wood - clad and fiberglass. 

[[vinyl windows|Vinyl frames]] are low-cost replacement operating window frames. They cannot be painted but are durable and easily maintained. [[aluminum windows|Aluminum operating window frames]] are most effective in warm climates due to their tendency for condensation build-up when the weather turns cold. Aluminum frames may include thermal breaks which increase the window's effectiveness in cold weather. 

[[wood windows|Wood frames]] are a traditional framing alternative for replacement operating windows. Wood interiors are compatible with many architectural styles but, if left unclad, the exteriors must be painted or varnished annually to prevent rot or warping. Options to purchase replacement windows with aluminum- or vinyl-cladding provide homeowners with a more weather-resistant wood frame window. 

[[fiberglass windows|Fiberglass frames]] have become more popular in recent years due to their reputation for durability, energy efficiency and structural stability. They are comparable in price to [[composite windows|composite frames]] which are manufactured using recycled materials. 

== Styles of Operating Windows ==
Replacement windows operate by sliding, either [[vertical sliding windows|vertically]] or [[horizontal sliding windows|horizontally]] or with hinges. Most operating windows open and close manually but there are mechanical options as well which move the sashes within the window's frame by way of a motorized control system. 

=== Hinged Windows ===
Hinged replacement windows include [[pivot windows|pivot windows]], [[garden windows|garden windows]], [[casement windows|casement windows]], [[hopper windows|hopper windows]], [[awning windows|awning windows]], [[tilt and turn windows|tilt turn windows]] and [[tilt and slide windows|tilt slide windows]]. These windows open by pushing, pulling or cranking them inward or outward, either manually or by using a mechanical control panel. Hinged operating windows are available in a wide range of sizes and generally include rectangular or square window shapes though casements are also available as [[round circle windows|round tops]], either full round tops, half round tops or quarter round tops.

=== Sliding Windows ===
Replacement sliding windows include both horizontal sliders, also called "gliders" and vertical sliding windows such as [[double hung windows|double hung windows]] and [[single hung windows|single hung windows]]. Horizontal sliding windows glide along tracks to shift the operating sash(es) to the left or the right. Vertical sliding windows operate by lifting and lowering the operating sash(es) vertically. Vertical sliding windows are available as single hung window in which one sash operates while the other one remains stationary or double hung windows in which both sashes operate. Horizontal sliding windows are available as a XO model, in which one sash operates while the other remains stationary, and as a XOX model in which the middle sash remains stationary while the side sashes move.   

== Operating/Non-Operating Windows ==
Some windows are available as both operating and non-operating windows such as [[gable windows|gable windows]], [[dormer windows|dormer windows]], [[roof windows|roof windows]] and [[clerestory windows|clerestory windows]]. 

== Energy Efficiency for Operating Windows ==
Special steps must be taken to ensure that operating windows are thermally efficient and weather resistant. In addition to the [[double pane windows|double]] or [[triple pane windows|triple]] panes and [[Low E Windows|Low-E coatings]] which earn windows [[window ratings|ratings]] as quality energy performance windows, operating windows should include sealed sills, quality compressible foam or high-quality neoprene strips weatherstripping and metal V-channels in the sash channels.

{{Replacement Window Types}}

[[Category:Replacement Windows]]