What Are Picture Windows?

A picture window, as the name suggests, is a window designed to offer an unobstructed view out like a picture frame. Unlike regular windows, the design of picture windows is optimized for the best view out. Did you know picture windows cannot even be opened?

In this article we look at the differences between picture windows and regular windows, and how much picture windows cost.

Picture windows allow significantly more natural light to enter and are noticeably larger windows to the world than a comparable regular window. 

What is a picture window?

There are several characteristics of a picture window that are different from regular windows:

1. Fixed panes that do not open
2. Low profile frames
3. No glazing bar to interrupt the view
4. High energy efficiency
5. Excellent sound insulation

Picture windows are also larger than other windows to give a clear view outdoors. This makes them popular in the living room, dining room, and the kitchen, basically wherever people tend to spend a lot of time.

Homeowners couple picture windows with other types of windows to form combinations. A popular combination is the bay window, which usually has a large picture window in the middle flanked by two regular windows. Combinations can also be found in hung and slider windows (with one non-moving sash) and even casement windows.

 Custom picture windows are designed with energy-efficient glass and insulated frames for excellent thermal insulation.

Are picture windows cheaper?

Picture windows do not have a lot of the hardware of regular crank and slider windows, such as hinges and handles. This makes them more affordable than equivalent casement and hung windows. How much cheaper a picture window is compared to a regular window depends on its size. However, since most homeowners look for large replacement picture windows there isn’t that much of a difference in price. Note that installation costs of a picture may be lower than other windows’ too.

Another factor is that without a slider or crank mechanism picture windows are extremely low maintenance.

What is the average cost of a picture window?

A replacement picture window can cost between $500 and $800 per window, not including the cost of installation. However, the cost of a replacement window can depend on the size of the window, level of Low-E coating, and window trim.

Talk to The Window Experts about custom picture windows for your home. We have a large selection of window styles to choose from.