What is a specialty window?
When you want that extra wow factor, this is your window. Flexible in shape and size, the specialty window lets you boost curb appeal in a totally unique way. Whether you select a single standout window or create a showstopping combination, here are the details you need to know.
What is a specialty window?
Specialty windows are the ones you pick when you’re looking for a non-standard shape. Of course, they can be circles, arches, and ovals. But they can also be triangles, trapezoids, and so much more.
Typically, they are fixed windows, which means they don’t open. This enables them to be larger than windows that do open. They’re also often combined with other windows (specialty or not) to make a standout combination.
We offer specialty windows through a variety of product lines, including the E-Series, A-Series, 400 Series, and 100 Series.
What are the advantages of specialty windows?
Specialty windows can do a lot for your home — no matter if it’s traditional or modern in style. Here are the top reasons to consider this type of window:
- To add character: Some classic architectural styles include a circle or arch window as an accent. Other times, a specialty shape is added because it’s unexpected and helps boost curb appeal.
- To bring in extra light: A specialty window can mimic your roofline to maximize wall space or, more traditionally, it might be combined with another window like a half-circle transom above a double-hung.
- To create a large and extra-special combination: On a staircase, in a double-height living room, or anywhere there’s space to create a large opening, specialty windows can be combined to create a high-impact opening.
Where do specialty windows work best?
What’s the difference between 400 Series Specialty, 400 Series Flexiframe®, and 400 Series Complementary Windows?
400 Series Specialty Windows
This is a great option when you’re looking for one of the most popular shapes — think a circle or an oval. These windows are made of wood with a durable vinyl coating on the exterior.
We often see this option selected when there’s a desire to add a single unique shape as an accent or create a smaller-scale, traditional window combination, like a half-circle transom above a double-hung window. It’s a good choice on a home featuring 400 Series Tilt-Wash Double-Hung Windows or 400 Series Casement Windows because the sight lines will match.
400 Series Flexiframe® Windows
These windows are available in expanded sizes and shapes beyond what you’ll find through the 400 Series Specialty Window offerings. They are wood clad with a fiberglass or aluminum exterior. The latter is used to make curved shapes. We often see this option selected when more specialization is needed — for example, to create a window that mirrors the roofline or when there’s a desire to combine windows to create a one-of-a-kind window combination. This is a good option when you seek to join windows together into a large unit.
400 Series Complementary Windows
Choose these windows when you need the most specialization of all. They’re made of wood with an aluminum coating on the outside. If you’re looking for a unique shape in a monumental size, this is a great option.
What is a Springline™ window?
Springline refers to an arch shape that's round on top and square at the base. The bottom of the window is straight with right angles on both bottom corners. The vertical sides gradually curve together creating a circle on top. It’s a graceful shape that suits lots of different traditional home styles — especially various Spanish-style homes.
Our Springline windows come in different variations, sizes, and materials. Find this option available through the 100 Series, 400 Series, A-Series, and E-series product lines.
Your specialty window FAQs answered
How long does it take to install specialty shape windows?
Installing specialty shape windows will likely take longer than installing standard rectangular windows. This is because steps like framing and flashing are more complex. More angle cuts and miters will be needed to frame the opening correctly, and it may be more cumbersome to flash properly. When flashing, it’s critical to follow the shingling method where flashing begins at the bottom and lower layers are protected by overlapping layers above.
For this reason and more, we recommend hiring a professional to install your windows. When you’re ready, we can help you find an Andersen-vetted pro in your area.
Are you a pro? Find installation instructions tailored to your product and project through our Installation Guide Configurator.
Can specialty shape windows be repaired if damaged?
Are specialty windows difficult to maintain?
Specialty windows are easier to maintain because they are fixed. Because they don’t open, their design is simplified with fewer moving parts and pieces that need to be maintained — no hardware, no insect screens, no locks. You’ll never have to worry about hardware corroding or making adjustments to moving parts.
Of course, like all windows, they will need regular washing. One consideration is that the exterior of a fixed window must be washed outside since it doesn’t open. Want our expert tips on how to wash windows?
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