French windows: Way to incorporate French artistry into your home

Are French windows really windows or are they doors? You must have often pondered upon this question. Are they really called that in France too? Often commonly used interchangeably, French windows are door-like structures that can be used in place of your regular windows, not just to add a vintage element but also to serve as a better ventilation and natural lighting option over regular windows. Read more to explore when it comes to widows and how to do it the French way. 

See also: French doors

 

What are French windows?

French windows are an aesthetic replacement to your regular windows. Even though terminologically often used interchangeably with French doors, they hold a rather structural difference, as a French window serves the purpose of being something eye-catching, while providing better ventilation and doing other jobs that a window is supposed to do. French windows typically feature a base frame to keep a distance from the ground, whereas French doors, being wider than windows, lack a bottom frame to maintain a lower level and ensure the safety of those passing through.

 

How did the design evolve?

The French window, commonly linked with France, traces its origins to Italian, Roman, and Greek architecture emerging during the Renaissance’s revival of classical design. Renaissance architects prioritised symmetry and classical elements in structures, departing from Gothic intricacies.

By the 16th century, Renaissance windows evolved into floor-to-ceiling Palladian windows with balconies, optimising light and ventilation. The French, exposed to Renaissance design through war spoils, embraced these ideas, creating their versions with multiple panes supported by vertical division.

Initially narrower, French windows gained popularity for bringing light into rooms and providing balcony access. Over time, they evolved into wider doors, especially during the Baroque era, swinging outward without a mullion or vertical division for an expansive view. Originally in wood and iron, French windows now use diverse materials, yet wooden French doors maintain classical beauty. This enduring design combines style, light, and charm, connecting to classical principles while enhancing modern housing.

 

Types of French windows

French windows do not have an expansive range of types but the designs on the same can vary depending on the aesthetics of the living space. There are two commonly used categories of French windows: 

Sliding French windows

These types of French windows are commonly found near the installation with a view of an outside balcony and also provide a seating area. In contrast to swing windows, sliding windows are renowned for their ability to save space. Additionally, they can include a mosquito net to prevent insects from entering while still ensuring proper ventilation and lighting.

Swing windows 

Offering generous space for entry and exit, swing windows can be configured to open either inward or outward, depending on the desired spatial requirements. This design enables optimal penetration of natural light and airflow, simultaneously elevating the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding space.

 

Advantages of French Windows

Natural lighting

French windows are designed to allow the entering of a significant amount of natural light into your living space. This not only creates a bright uplifting atmosphere but also contributes to a more positive environment in the house helping one to enhance productivity as well in such an environment. 

Aesthetics

UPVC French windows, with their stylish design, enhance the overall visual appeal of your residence, presenting an enduring, vintage and graceful aesthetic. They also seamlessly integrate into a vast variety of architectural styles. 

Increased ventilation

Tailored for expansive openings, French windows facilitate increased airflow within your home. Their elaborate design allows an increased ventilation cycle, particularly advantageous for maintaining a cool and comfortable ambience during warmer months.

Enhanced property value

Installation of French windows is an investment that can help significantly increase the overall value of your home, this feature adds a touch of sophistication and functionality making the property a priority buy.

Sustainable usage of energy

These windows boost energy efficiency by optimising natural light, reducing the dependence on artificial lighting, and aiding in temperature regulation throughout the seasons.

 

Disadvantages of French Windows

Security issues

Despite being designed with security in mind, French windows may present challenges, necessitating additional measures such as locks for enhanced security.

Limitation on sound insulation

In noisy settings, French windows may offer restricted sound insulation, potentially allowing external noise to infiltrate your living space.

Maintenance issues

Even though easy to maintain, UPVC and other fittings or material in the French windows may require periodic cleaning to upkeep and preserve both their appearance and functionality.

Weather Sensitivity

French windows may exhibit increased susceptibility to varying weather conditions, demanding proper care to ensure durability in diverse climates.

Costly affair

The initial installation cost of French windows, particularly with high-quality materials, may be relatively higher compared to alternative window options.

 

FAQs

How expensive are French windows?

Factors like materials used, the size of the window and installation procedure determine whether a French window is an expensive affair or not, but when compared to regular windows, French windows can be a bit pricey owing to the structural designs and architecture.

How to maintain French windows?

When choosing the material for French windows, it's important to consider the local environment to ensure that post-installation maintenance is not troublesome. Using wood friendly and metal friendly cleaning agents are important to ensure longevity of the materials. People living in swampy or rain prone areas should do regular checks for termite and take appropriate safety measures.

How safe are French windows?

French windows serve an aesthetic purpose that are meant for showcase, thus might not be very safe. However, choosing appropriate safety measures can help solve safety concerns.

Why to choose French widows over regular windows?

French windows help increase ventilation and natural light in the living space compared to the regular windows. These not only improve the overall living experience in a particular space but also help one live sustainably and adds an aesthetic value to the space.

What materials can be used to construct French windows?

French windows were initially constructed of wood and iron but now cost friendly options like UPVC, alloys, vinyl, fibreglass etc can be used. Take into account your geographical area and its environment when choosing the material for French windows.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com