Sliding windows are horizontal windows with sashes that slide back and forth to open and close. They function using low friction rolling sliders and have a very simple design and structure. They have been around since the 1700s, with some updates since then, and they are a very popular choice in all kinds of homes in Canada.
We have analyzed the current market and outlined a few different reasons why Ecoline sliding windows might be the right choice for your home, and a couple of cons to think about too.
This post will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of sliding windows and compare them to a couple of the most popular types of windows out there to help you make up your mind on whether they are the right addition to your home.
Why Canadian Homeowners Choose Sliding Windows
The main advantages of sliding windows are their:
- Width and Size: Sliding windows are wider than most other window types, and they can fill large spaces if needed or wanted. This makes them very visually attractive, with lots of natural light and the ability to showcase any scenery or views outside of your home.
- Price: Sliding windows are some of the most affordable windows out there, making them a great option if you are working within a budget.
- Ease of Use: The simple design and structure of sliding windows allow them to be easy to use and accessible. They don’t require much strength to open, and they can be easy to open in difficult-to-reach places, such as above a sink or bathtub. The simple design means they are easy to install and maintain. With fewer parts and components, they are less likely to need fixing further down the line.
- Space: As sliding windows open by sliding one pane on top of the other, rather than opening outwards or inwards, they can be a very space-saving option. If your windows are leading out to a smaller external space, or something is blocking your outside space, a garage, or another wall, for example, then having a window that slides rather than swings open can be very helpful.
- Energy Efficiency: While these windows are not the best when it comes to this criteria, Energy-Star-rated sliders will provide you up to 55% more energy efficiency in comparison with regular units.
Sliding windows vs Hung Windows: Which Is Better?
Hung windows, also known as Sash windows, have two sashes that move up and down the window frame using pulleys. These windows are more common in warmer climates, as they allow more airflow in and out of homes and do not provide the same level of insulation as other window types. They are also helpful in bringing more ventilation into the house.
The main disadvantages of these windows are that they are more difficult to use and require some upper body strength, and they tend to have more maintenance issues down the line. A more complex structure and traditional problems with wood lead to a higher probability of malfunctioning or rotting windows. It is more important to maintain these windows and look after them so that these problems are less likely to arise.
Compared with sliding windows, hung windows do bring the same ventilation and warm weather benefits, but they present more problems in terms of everyday usage, maintenance, and long-term costs.
Siding windows vs Crank Windows: Which Is Better?
Crank windows, such as casement windows, are attached to their frame by one or more hinges and open via a crank or lever mechanism. Those hinged at the top are called awning windows, and those hinged at the bottom are called hoppers. These are a widespread type of window, and many homes will have at least a few crank windows.
The main advantages of these types of windows are their increased energy efficiency, levels of security, and ventilation. Awning windows are also weather-resistant and are ideal for rainy climates.
The disadvantages of these windows are as obvious as well:
- they cannot be used as a fire escape in case of emergencies
- they are more expensive
- they require more space
Casement windows are often used in conjunction with other windows, so installing both sliding and crank windows in your home would be a great idea. This means if the weather is bad or you want to leave a window open while you’re out of the house, you can leave a casement window open and close your sliding windows.
If you live in a very rainy climate, awning windows are usually your best option. Hung and sliding windows can be better suited to warmer climates.
Sliding vs Crank vs Hung Windows: Pricing
While there are many things to take into account when choosing and comparing different window styles, the first and the most important aspect would be the price tag, of course. Getting new windows would not be a cheap journey, but since homeowners usually go through this process just once, it is vital to buy and install the best units that are reasonably priced. Below is the table that outlines the typical price range for the discussed windows, but you should keep in mind that these are not the final quotes. Contact your local company to find out the exact prices.
| Location | Casement | Awning | Sliding | Single Hung |
| Basement | $535 – $1,022 | $471 – $1114 | $394 – $1057 | n\a |
| Bathroom | $446 – $1,032 | $432 – $943 | $394 – $1033 | $95 – $1500 |
| Bedroom | $444 – $1193 | $893 – $909 | $437 – $1521 | $587 – $2115 |
| Bonus room | $676 – $1134 | $494 – $944 | $820 – $1248 | $634 – $1374 |
| Dining room | $550 – $1348 | $843 – $1429 | $669 – $1957 | $529 – $1466 |
| Family room | $605 – $1999 | $621 – $1157 | $490 – $1131 | $569 – $1155 |
| Foyer | $858 – $1999 | n\a | $465 – $778 | $500 – $854 |
| Front | $583 – $1014 | $483 – $1414 | $785 – $968 | $510 – $925 |
| Garage | n\a | $703 – $902 | $391 – $1085 | $588 – $732 |
| Kitchen | $329 – $1356 | $419 – $1471 | $394 – $1595 | $445 – $1595 |
| Living room | $484 – $1614 | $485 – $1384 | $433 – $2327 | $429 – $1614 |
| Master bedroom | $545 – $1304 | $588 – $1120 | $452 – $1810 | n\a |
| Nook | $549 – $1149 | $734 – $920 | $658 – $1142 | $473 – $1186 |
Source: https://www.ecolinewindows.ca/window-styles/sliding-windows/
A Few Other Things to Consider…
There are also a few disadvantages of sliding windows to consider whenever you are weighing up your options.
- Sliding windows can be less secure than other window types and require an extra locking system to be installed if you want more security.
- While open, they also provide more space for things to get in or out of your room, so they shouldn’t be left open while sleeping or out of the house.
- Sliding windows are less efficient in adverse weather conditions. They are not the kind of window you would want to be left open in the rain, snow, or strong winds.
- And finally, sliding windows can be more challenging to clean than other windows. They require the individual panes to be taken out to be cleaned thoroughly, and it can be harder to reach out and around to clean the external panels.
To Summarize
There are many advantages to adding sliding windows to your home. They are visually beautiful, framing your views and allowing natural light to pour in. They allow plenty of ventilation and fresh air, and they are great for warm and sunny climates. Sliding windows are easy to use, easy to install, and easy to maintain.
There are, however, some other points to consider. Other windows, such as awning windows, are better for rainy and windy climates, and you will need to take some extra steps with sliding windows if you want your home to be safe and secure.
Taking all these factors into account, you should be one step closer to being able to work out whether sliding windows are the right fit for your home.
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