Windows are considered the “eyes” of a house. In children’s drawings, notice that the façade of a house often looks like a face with the window representing the eyes and the door the lips. Won’t you like beautiful eyes for the property you’re rehabbing? Of course you would. That is why when flipping homes, you should know what types of windows are commonly found in American properties.

When you know the various types if windows, repairing and rehabbing the house will be easier. Determine what type of window that is and you’ll know its purpose and use. One you know its purpose, you’ll be able to determine whether you need to just clean that window or replace it totally. For instance, if the specific window is used as an emergency escape, you must make sure that its hinges are working properly. If that window is simple there to provide extra natural lighting, you can opt for fixed types.

First of all, a window may be classified as either fixed or operable. Fixed windows are literally fixed on the wall and are used only to provide light or as part of the room design. Operable windows, meanwhile, are meant to provide ventilation, light, and an exit for emergencies.

Hung windows are very common among single family homes encountered by rehabbers. These types have a sash that can be moved up or down. If only sash is movable, it’s a single-hung type; double-hung for two. Take note that some models can be removed or rotated for easy cleaning. This quality of hung types makes them easier to clean and replace when flipping homes.

Horizontal slider windows are similar to hung, except that they slide horizontally and not vertically. One panel is usually fixed and the other is movable through a horizontal track. These panels may also be removed. These are a practical solution when you have to replace windows when flipping homes because they are easy to install.

There are also types of windows that tilt instead of slide. One type is called awning windows. This one tilts out at the bottom, allowing the room “suck up” air. Their opposites are the hopper windows, which tilt out at the top. The latter is used to provide additional ventilation. Be sure to install hopper windows only in areas protected by eaves. Otherwise, you could scoop rain, snow, and dust.

Meanwhile, casement windows are like awning and hopper types except that they tilt outward usually from the center. They are hinged on the side and not on the top and bottom, as is the case with the first two tilt types. These are easy to clean so if they are not damaged, making them gleam with warm soapy water is enough. Cleaning is a flipping homes activity that’s over underestimated.

These are just some of the most common window types used I American homes. If you’re looking for jalousie and other types, they’re probably in Part 2 of this two-part rehabbing guide. Watch out for the other types in Flipping Homes: Types of Windows in American Homes Part 2, which will be up soon.