Colonial-style homes are one of the most popular types of homes in the U.S. thanks to their classic beauty and wide appeal. Although there are several varieties of colonial homes, one of the most prominent features shared by all variations is the emphasis on symmetry with multiple windows.
If you have a colonial home, you may be wondering how to choose the right windows to fit this style. Here is a look at the most important considerations.
What Is A Colonial Home?
Colonial homes are normally rectangular in shape and feature steep, pointed roofs. Symmetry is their main defining characteristic, so the front door is normally placed in the center of the home’s façade and surrounded by symmetrical rows of vertical windows. The style was popular among colonists in the 17th and 18th centuries.
However, there are several subtypes of colonial homes, and this should serve as the driving force behind a homeowner’s window selection. Here is a look at some popular colonial styles and the best windows to suit them.
Windows For Georgian Colonial Homes
One of the most popular styles of colonial homes in the U.S. is the Georgian colonial, which features a large dormer in the center with gables on the side, with the front covered in large multi-pane windows. These homes often feature bay windows on the main floor to provide some sophistication and balance.
Choose double-hung sash windows if you are looking for something that is typical for this style. Double-hung windows have two opening parts that can slide up or down; single-hung windows are a more affordable alternative that has a fixed top section with a moveable bottom one. Some can also tilt inward for easier cleaning.
In Georgian colonial homes, grids using 12×12 or 9×9 placements are especially popular on the windows. Grids were originally used to allow for smaller planes of glass to be used, but modern versions tend to use larger glass sheets with decorative grids to give them the desired look.
Although historic Georgian colonial homes featured double-hung dormer windows, casement windows are typically used these days to meet the egress requirements for upper bedrooms.
Windows For Dutch Colonial Homes
Dutch colonial homes have been enjoying a bit of a comeback lately but have never gone out of style. With their barn-like gambrel roof, double Dutch door in the main entryway, and symmetrical design, they have undeniable curb appeal and coziness.
At each end of the top floor, dormers or regular windows should be placed, while a picture or dormered window centered at the top of the main floor is a trademark of the style. Other essential design features include flared eaves setting off the windows.
Double-hung windows are an ideal choice for homes of this style thanks to the ease of opening them and their timeless look. One of their most popular attributes is the ability to open them from the top down and from the bottom up at the same time, allowing hot air to exit the home while cooler air enters it. This can lead to reductions in utility bills, but be sure you choose high-quality windows that open and close smoothly. A strategically placed picture window also looks good on a Dutch colonial home.
Windows For Cape Cod Colonial Homes
Cape Cod colonials are a staple in the northeastern U.S., but it is a style that has gained traction throughout the nation on account of its attractive gable-front dormers and minimalist detailing.
For a Cape Cod colonial, casement windows are the window of choice thanks to the extra exterior detailing they provide and their ability to mimic the look of double-hung windows. Another popular option is a double-hung window known as cottage style, which has top and lower sashes of varying heights as determined by the window’s grille pattern.
Cape Cod colonials tend to use lighter tones, with white window exteriors and trim being the most popular color choice.
Windows For Spanish Colonial Homes
Spanish Colonial Revival architecture was brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers. Most popular in Florida and California, this style can be found throughout the U.S. and features light-colored stucco walls and chimneys with tile roofs.
The French casement window is the top choice for Spanish Colonial Revival homes. They are typically narrow and tall and divided into horizontal panes rather than vertical ones. The window frame, trim and sash are usually all the same color. Choose a shade that contrasts with the exterior stucco of the home for a true Spanish Colonial Revival feel.
Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Window Contractors
Traditional, symmetrical and timeless, colonial-style homes are classically beautiful. If you would like to update the appearance of your colonial home while respecting its historic character, you need window contractors who are experienced in working with these homes.
At Adelphia Exteriors, our Northern Virginia window replacement and installation professionals can help you determine the right style, color, and glass for colonial-style windows to make your home welcoming, beautiful and energy efficient. Reach out today to learn more about our residential window services or to receive an estimate.