Split-level homes are a frequent sight in Morris County, New Jersey. Their flowing design creates an interconnected yet separate living space that many households love. Their design, however, can look severely dated. New windows are a great way to modernize and add value to your 1970s home. The trick is choosing the right type of window. New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc. explores the best window styles for split-level homes to bring dated architecture into the present century.
Key Takeaways
- Getting new windows can modernize your split-level home while offering improvements in natural light and energy performance.
- Consider contemporary styles, such as double-hung, sliding, casement, and picture windows.
- Ensure a modern look by choosing a timeless frame color, avoiding grilles, widening the frame, and replacing disproportional shutters.
What Do Split-Level Homes Need from New Windows?
To decide on a window style for your split-level home, it’s important to know your goals. New windows contribute numerous benefits when remodeling buildings. Some common remodeling challenges faced by split-level homeowners include:
- Curb appeal: From the road, split-levels often look dated and awkward with mismatched window sizes. Uplift it with modern windows and a more balanced design.
- Light: The staggered floors of a split-level can limit natural light in some areas. Brighten your interior spaces with larger windows that maximize light transference.
- Energy efficiency: If your windows haven’t been replaced since the 1970s, then they’re probably highly inefficient. Cut down your energy bills by investing in new window tech.
These goals will shape your window selection. You’ll look for large windows in modern-looking styles that offer great light transference, airflow, and energy ratings.
What Are the Best Window Styles for Split-Level Homes in Morris County?
Most split-level homes were built with single-hung windows. This style features a mobile bottom sash that slides up over a fixed top sash, giving you limited options when opening the windows. They’re also usually Colonial with glass panes divided by a decorative grid. Changing up the style can do a lot to modernize your home. Here are some recommendations:
- Double-hung: This style has a movable top sash. It’s a popular contemporary style that works great in bedrooms.
- Sliding: A slider features two or three movable sashes that slide horizontally. The wide design is a great option for long walls, where it can fill empty space and improve lighting.
- Casement: This style features a single sash that you crank to swing outward. It’s easy to operate and delivers maximum airflow, making it a good selection for the lower floors.
- Picture: These windows don’t open, allowing for impressive sizes. They offer great views for the living room and a striking exterior focal point that boosts curb appeal.
You should also consider your window dimensions. A split-level floor plan can impose some limitations on what size windows will fit in a space. The results often look awkward with mismatched window sizes and heights. With strategic planning, you can even out those lines to create a more balanced look.
What Are Other Ways to Modernize My Windows?
Modernizing your split-level doesn’t stop at the window style. The choices you make with the frame color, grille, and décor can also date your windows or bring them into the 21st century. Here are some tips to modernize your window design:
- Frame colors: Brightly colored and woodgrain frames look dated in the wrong context. Go for a timeless color like white, black, or earthy neutrals.
- Grille patterns: Ditch the Colonial grille, which is dated and limits your view. Go for open glass for a contemporary look that maximizes natural light.
- Window trim: Wider window trim can make windows look bigger than they are. It also creates a striking frame that adds structure and draws the eye.
- Shutters: Poorly proportioned window shutters look awkward and so mid-century. Get rid of them or replace them with shutters that fit your windows properly.
These strategies can take the look of your new windows to the next level, helping you get the most benefit out of your window replacement.
Modernize Your NJ Home with Replacement Windows
With the right window style and design, you can transform any split-level home from an awkward eyesore into a stylish modern residence. Get more window design tips from New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc. We offer window replacements and installations for homeowners across NJ. Contact us to learn more about the best window styles for split-level homes or to request a quote.
FAQs about Split-Level Home Window Replacement
Which window styles work best on split-level homes?
The best window styles for split-level homes are contemporary styles such as double-hung, sliding, casement, and picture windows. Consider the needs of each room and the exterior appearance to choose the right style for every space.
How can replacement windows improve curb appeal?
Windows are a highly visible feature of your home. Replacement windows boost curb appeal by modernizing, adding structure, and balancing the front façade for a more attractive appearance.
How can replacement windows improve natural light?
Replacement windows are an opportunity to fill wall spaces with larger windows and more open glass, allowing for unrestricted views and improved light transference.
What design choices help modernize a split-level without losing character?
While split-level homes can look dated, they also have a fun mid-century character that sets them apart from new construction. A vintage frame color or decorative grille can nod toward the home’s original construction while delivering the energy benefits of a new window.
