Help! Window grid design.. grids, no grids or top grid only??

5 years ago

My husband and I are renovating a foreclosure that we purchased. We are replacing all of the existing windows. We can't decide what design of grids would best suit our house. I like the character of grids but also enjoy an unobstructed view. We are sitting on a few acres. I don't want to install windows that won't match or fit the house. Thoughts? Suggestions?

Featured Answer

PRO

Charles Ross Homes

5 years ago

While the changes to the home you are considering are not irreversible, I think you'll find it beneficial to get a computer rendering of the home's exterior. That way you can experiment with different exterior materials, colors, and windows, and make more informed choices.

Best wishes for a successful project.

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Comments (8)

PRO
HALLETT & Co.
5 years ago
Are you changing the type of window? 6 over one work well for double hung but not these strange picture window over awning windows (Canada?) The House is very traditional so grids make sense but it needs to be conceived as part of the overall renovation.
Jacqueline Smith
Original Author
5 years ago
The bottom third of the windows are sliding windows not awning windows. Code says 18" from the floor and the whole things has to be tempered. so they added the sliding part so they could cut costs on have a full tempered picture window. We were probably going to keep the same type of window because of that reason. we originally wanted perimeter grid windows but the thick black vinyl piece on top of the bottom slide part of the windows becomes an eye sore so that's why we were thinking top grid or 6 over one. if that makes sense?
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I hate the sandwiched in between look. It looks cheap because it is cheap. I didn't build my current home. It has the snap in interior grills. They are wood and can be painted to match the interior trim. My experience is they shrink a little bit and after a while some of them don't fit as snugly into the window frame. They become easy to knock out. But, they are easy to take out and clean the dog noses. I prefer the divided light windows and that is what I put in when I built my custom home. You pay a premium and you can tell the difference from the street. Looking at your elevation, you won't be wrong with your choice. It will come down to personal preference. I'd advise you to either get the entirely smooth window or the fully divided light. Don't go halfway with the other two options.
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Jacqueline Smith
Original Author
5 years ago
Also, we plan on replacing all the siding with hardiepanels and board and bat, paint everything white with maybe black trim only on the peaks and under the black gutters.
PRO
HALLETT & Co.
5 years ago
The proportions of picture windows over sliders will never work with traditional grids. Switch them all out to casements or double hungs, or if you like the current windows just get them without grids.
PRO
Norwood Architects
5 years ago
Traditionally, Tudor style homes and their historical antecedents have multiple lites (panes). If you are removing the existing siding and replacing with hardie panels and board & batten that will significantly change the character of the house. In that case, I would think you would have more freedom in your choice of windows. Board & batten is evocative of farmhouse styles (at least to me). So, something simple might be appropriate - a one over one pattern or perhaps a two over one especially is you are considering single or double hung windows. Would suggest those patterns in casement windows as well. Fewer muntins will allow for better views. Good luck with your renovation. Please post photos after it is complete.
Jacqueline Smith
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks for all of the advice!

I've posted a few inspiration photos.

Regarding, the current tudor style, while this style certainly does have charm, it just isn't our favorite. We'd prefer something a little more modern and clean looking. For now, the tile roof will need to stay but down the road we plan to replace it, mostly likely with shingles. I should also mention we live in the Pacific Northwest and tile roofs and stucco siding are not real common here. I don't think the materials perform as well as other in this climate.

As for the windows, we've decided casement windows would be best, at least for the large front windows. I appreciate that suggestion!

I think we are leaning toward no grids in the back of the house so that the view is clear. As for the front, we are still torn. We may have to get some renderings worked up to help us decide.

Any thoughts on black vs white windows? We were thinking about staying with the black to contrast with the white but I've also seen some white houses with white windows that also look great. There's just so many great options!

Again, thanks for all advice. I will definitely post after photos when the project is complete!
Jacqueline Smith
Original Author
3 years ago
UPDATE: We still have a lot work to finish up (including the exterior trim paint) but the siding and new windows are done and I wanted to share some photos. We are pretty happy with our selection and thankful for the input from pros here on Houzz. Now we are debating if we should whitewash or paint the exterior brick, so many decisions... 🤔

Thanks again everyone!