Specialty windows

A specialty window is a uniquely shaped window — think of a circle, arch, oval, and so much more! These windows don’t open. They’re what we call fixed or inoperable windows, like a picture window. This means their role is to add more character to your home while framing views and bringing in natural light. Think of them as your unique lens on the world. Want to know more? Head over to our blog for all the details on specialty windows. 

Some of the most common specialty window shapes include circles, half circles, quarter circles, ellipticals, eyebrows, ovals, octagons, arches, unequal leg arches, trapezoids, and rectangles. The exact shapes available will depend on the product line chosen. For details, check out the product guide for the series you’re interested in.

Specialty windows can be more energy efficient. This is because specialty windows are a type of fixed window (they don’t open). Windows that don’t open are the most efficient because they have a simpler design that leaves fewer opportunities for air to leak through. Just keep in mind that size also affects efficiency. If you select a very large window or a combination of multiple windows joined together, this will increase the amount of glass. Glass is simply not as energy efficient as a wall, but striking the balance between natural light and efficiency is an aspect of home design that your builder and architect can help you navigate. Want to understand more about how to pick out energy-efficient windows? 

Eye-catching specialty windows have some unique advantages. Here are a few you’ll want to know about:

• They add character to a home with their unexpected shapes.
• They can be larger than standard windows because they don’t open.
• They’re available in a range of shapes allowing you to choose the one that’s exactly right for your space.
• They can be more energy efficient because they don’t open.
• They’re easier to maintain, simply because they don’t open and have fewer parts and pieces requiring maintenance. 

Ready to really dig in? We’ve got all the details about specialty windows in our blog. 

Specialty windows, like any feature in a home, work best where they balance form and function. Their form is what makes them unique. The functionality they provide is natural light and views — remember, they’re fixed (don’t open), so they won’t let in fresh air. Here are a few places where they can really be enjoyed:

• On your home’s street-facing side, their unique shape adds curb appeal and character.
• On a stair, you’ll be able to enjoy a custom view that changes as you ascend and descend.
• In a small space, like a powder room, attic, or alcove, they add interest and can even make a space feel bigger.
• In certain architectural styles, certain specialty shape windows are a hallmark. For example, arched windows are common on Mission, Spanish Colonial Revival, and French Eclectic homes. 

Ready to dive into the details about specialty windows? 

Windows that don’t open can be larger in size than windows that do. So, when you select a specialty window, you not only have the option to select a special shape, you also have the option to select an extra-large size. And if you really want to maximize your light, you could select a specialty window combination, which is one unit made of multiple windows joined together into a unique shape. 

Are you a pro looking for technical documents to help you specify a specialty window? Head over to our sizing resources to get started. 

A window’s price is impacted by many different factors, which is why it’s sometimes best to just request a quote. However, if you are looking for a general understanding about the cost of specialty windows, here’s what you should know: We offer specialty windows through a range of product lines, including our most affordable 100 Series product line. 

Our specialty windows come standard in popular uncommon shapes (circles, arches, and more). Having these shapes as a standard option means we can produce them more efficiently, helping to avoid costs associated with special orders. However, the cost of manufacturing a specialty window is still higher than say that of a double-hung window in a standard size. This is because the specialized manufacturing processes required to produce these uniquely shaped windows are more manual — requiring steps like cutting unique angles for asymmetrical units, heating, and bending frames to create arches and more. 

Find more information about how window pricing works, or get into the specifics that’ll help you budget for your project by requesting a quote.

The unique form of specialty windows means the materials used to make them are sometimes a bit different from what’s generally used in a particular product line. Here’s an overview of the materials used to make our specialty windows: 

• A-Series Specialty Windows have wood interiors and a protective aluminum covering on the exterior.
• E-Series Specialty Windows are wood with a protective aluminum covering on the exterior.
• 400 Series Specialty Windows are made differently depending on the type of specialty window selected. 400 Series Specialty Windows are wood with a low-maintenance vinyl covering on the exterior. This option is a good one for the most popular specialty shapes. For more specialized shapes and sizes, 400 Series Flexiframe® windows are available and made of wood with a protective covering of fiberglass or aluminum on the exterior. Finally, for monumental sizing and the most unique shapes, there are 400 Series complementary windows, which are wood with a protective aluminum covering on the exterior. 
• 100 Series Specialty Windows are made of our trademarked Fibrex® material — the smart alternative to vinyl.