Plan for multi-purpose windows
It is important that you choose a window design that is both secure and decorative. PHOTO BY Edgar R Batte
What you need to know:
When building a house, the windows are considered to be part of the concerns when planning for the structure. However, it is important that you choose a type that will not only make your house secure but also beautiful.
Like roofing, windows also have an exceedingly important influence on the design and structure of a house and if planned well can make your house depict your lifestyle. Selecting the type, size and installation of windows depends on your needs as a home owner.
“However, before making any choice concerning windows, you will have to keep certain aspects in mind as architecture,” Rashid Ssenyonjo explains.
Location
Someone has to first understand the type, design and the size of the window they want to be fitted in their house. This will also determine its positioning because windows differ in the role they play. The size of the window will also determine its location on the house because they vary in size. Bigger windows have great weight and may cause cracks in the house if not correctly fixed in. Ssenyonjo adds that the architect has to go an extra mile and visit the site so as to clearly give the right advice about the windows required.
Function
Windows on a house are fitted in a particular place not for formality but for a reason.
“Wider Front windows especially sliding windows are usually put at the front of the house because they bring out the beauty of the house. They also allow proper aeration as these can easily be opened and closed,” Engineer Vicent Kato explains.
He adds that before you buy a window, test the ease of operating it and if it fits your style.
Design
Joseph explains that the design can either be suggested by the owner or by the welder but these designs differ in cost. Choose a window style that looks good inside and out for your house putting into consideration the frame colour to reflect your unique style.
Types
According to Joseph Kityo, a welder at Buddo metal fabricators, there are three common window types these include the sliding windows, louver windows and casement which are also known as swinging windows. “All these windows types are determined by the frame not the glass as many house owners may think which also has an impact on their cost,” Kityo explains.
Sliding windows have two different variations that is the single and the double slides. The difference between the two is the double slide has two movable panels and when opened remains in the centere and a single slide will either be opened to the left or the right. Sliding windows give utmost visibility. A fully designed double sliding window will cost Shs600,000 and a single slide costs between Shs350,000 and Shs400,000.
Casement or swinging windows
These open with a crank handle where the window swings outwards. Casement windows have a strong locking mechanism that is embedded within the frame making it hard for intruders to break through. Casement windows cost between Shs250,000 to 300,000 but it can also go below depending on the size and the design.
Louver windows
These are windows with adjustable glass placed at an angle. Louvers are always fitted at an angle that maintains one’s privacy and this makes them the greatest option for bathrooms because it allows in less light. The flow of air is varied by changing the pitch or level of the louvers. Louver windows cost between Shs120,000 and Shs150,000.
