Choosing the Right Windows for Your New Construction Home
Selecting windows for a new build or major remodel is one of the earliest and most important decisions you'll make.
The right windows impact comfort, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and long-term value. At Mountain States Building Products, we carry Andersen's full window lineup to help you make the most informed choice for your project.
Here's a concise breakdown of available window types and what to consider for each.
Window Types at a Glance
Double-Hung Windows
Two sashes slide open from both the top and bottom, allowing circular ventilation - hot air exits from the top, cool air enters from the bottom.
- Best for: Farmhouse, Victorian, Cape Cod, Craftsman
- Pro: Versatile and classic - suits virtually any home style
- Con: More moving parts means higher cost
- Available in: All Andersen product lines
Single-Hung Windows
Identical in appearance to double-hung windows, but only the bottom sash opens.
- Best for: Modern Farmhouse, Modern Tudor, transitional styles
- Pro: More energy-efficient and less expensive than double-hung
- Con: Limited airflow with only one operable sash
- Available in: 100 Series only
Casement Windows
A single sash that cranks open outward.
- Best for: Mid-Century Modern, Ranch, Spanish-style, Tudor
- Pro: Most energy-efficient operable window option
- Con: Outward swing can interfere with walkways, decks, or porches
- Available in: All Andersen product lines
Picture Windows
Fixed windows that do not open.
- Best for: Any home style - oversized in modern homes, moderate in traditional
- Pro: Most energy-efficient window overall; can be made extra large
- Con: No ventilation - best paired with operable windows nearby
- Available in: All Andersen product lines
Bay Windows
A combination unit featuring a center picture window flanked by casement or double-hung windows that projects beyond the exterior wall.
- Best for: Victorian, Tudor
- Pro: Adds character, panoramic views, and extra airflow
- Con: Requires careful installation and additional insulation at header and footer
- Available in: 400 Series and E-Series
Bow Windows
A curved variation of the bay window featuring a minimum of four casement windows arranged in a gentle arc.
- Best for: A variety of traditional home styles
- Pro: A dramatic statement piece with panoramic views and extra airflow
- Con: Requires detailed planning and careful installation
- Available in: 400 Series and E-Series
Gliding Windows
Two or three horizontally oriented sashes that slide open.
- Best for: Ranch, Mid-Century Modern
- Pro: Fills large openings efficiently; fewer parts mean less maintenance
- Con: Some configurations only open on one side - this cannot be changed after ordering
- Available in: 100 Series, 200 Series, 400 Series, and E-Series
Awning Windows
A single horizontally oriented sash hinged at the top that opens outward and upward.
- Best for: Ranch, Mid-Century Modern
- Pro: One of the most energy-efficient operable window options; can be fitted with a power operator
- Con: Outward swing can obstruct walkways, decks, or porches
- Available in: 100 Series, 400 Series, A-Series, and E-Series
Specialty Windows
Non-standard shapes - circles, arches, trapezoids, and more - that are mostly fixed.
- Best for: Any style; certain shapes are style-specific (e.g., arches for Spanish-style homes)
- Pro: Adds a signature architectural feature without a full custom order
- Con: Mostly inoperable
- Available in: 100 Series, 400 Series, A-Series, and E-Series
Pass-Through Windows
Windows designed specifically for indoor/outdoor entertaining, available in multiple opening configurations.
- Best for: Homes with defined outdoor living spaces
- Pro: Creates a seamless connection between interior and exterior entertaining areas
- Con: Complex installation - requires careful planning and typically carries a higher price point
- Options include Folding Outswing, MultiGlide™ (with pocket and automation capability), and Liftslide
Find the Right Window at Mountain States Building Products
We work directly with homeowners, builders, and contractors to identify the right window solution for every new construction or remodel project. With Andersen's full product lineup we can match any architectural style, performance requirement, and budget.
Ready to get started?
Contact our team to explore Andersen's complete window collection. Let Mountain States Building Products help you build with confidence.
