Having beautiful, functional windows in your kitchen allows natural light to fill the space, provides pleasing views, and can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic. When designing or renovating your kitchen, choosing custom windows gives you the flexibility to select the perfect styles, materials, sizes, and configurations to match your precise needs and preferences.
Benefits of Custom Windows for Kitchens
Opting for custom windows for your kitchen renovation or new build comes with numerous advantages:
Exact Dimensions
Stock window sizes often don’t fit properly into the unique dimensions of kitchen spaces. Custom windows are built to your exact measurements, seamlessly integrating into the design. This gives your kitchen a tailored, upscale look.
Material Options
From wood, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, to composite materials, custom kitchen windows allow you to select the perfect frame material for your needs. This affects aesthetics, functionality, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Energy Efficiency
Custom windows can be designed specifically to meet energy efficiency standards in your region. Advanced glazings, inert gas fills between panes, improved weatherstripping, and other options maximize energy savings.
Enhanced Ventilation
Kitchens require proper ventilation to manage humidity, odors, and excess heat from cooking. Custom windows can include integrated vents and fans to circulate air. Casement, awning, and hopper styles provide controlled ventilation.
Optimal Lighting
Carefully placed custom windows flood kitchens with natural light, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Light enhances safety and makes tasks easier on the eyes. Windows also balance artificial lighting requirements.
Noise Reduction
Kitchens can be noisy spaces. Custom windows with specialized glazing options can reduce outside noise pollution and sounds from appliances. This makes the kitchen more peaceful and private.
Added Security
Custom windows can be designed for enhanced security, with laminated or tempered glass, secure frames, and reliable locks. This deters break-ins and protects those inside.
Style Choices
From double hung, casement, and bay configurations to special shapes like arched or round, custom windows let you select the ideal styles for your kitchen’s design theme.
Window Treatments
Custom windows are sized to seamlessly incorporate any window treatments, such as curtains, valances, blinds, or shutters, without light gaps or impediments to opening and closing.
Popular Types of Custom Windows for Kitchens
Kitchens benefit from windows that facilitate ventilation, maximize light, and complement the design aesthetic. Here are some top custom window types to consider:
Casement
Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward, to the left or right, in a swinging motion. This full-window opening provides excellent ventilation. Grouped casements create increased light and an attractive appearance.
Awning
Awning windows have hinges at the top that allow them to open outward from the bottom in an upwards swing motion. They offer controlled airflow while resisting rain infiltration. Awnings can be used alone or above larger windows.
Bay
Bay windows project outward from a wall in an angular fashion. The windows may be in a contiguous row or divided by mullions. The bay creates space for a countertop or seating below. Bays draw in ample light from multiple directions.
Jalousie
Jalousie windows feature a series of horizontally-aligned slatted panes that pivot simultaneously to open and close. When fully open, they provide nearly unobstructed ventilation. The slats can be opened to varying degrees to allow partial airflow.
Picture
Picture windows are large fixed panes designed to showcase exterior views. They do not open. Picture windows lend an airier feel and draw in copious sunlight. They are often augmented with smaller operational windows nearby.
Garden
Garden windows extend outward from the wall, supported by a knee wall or console below. The windows sit above the base, angled for visibility to the exterior. Garden windows offer expanded views, shelf space, and room for plants.
Transom
Transom windows are positioned above interior openings like doors or larger windows. They have hinges at the top or side to allow ventilation and light transmission between rooms, even when barriers below are closed off.
Corner
Corner windows are installed at an angle to maximize light and sightlines from the corners of a space. The windows join with minimal framing in the corner to create a near seamless transition. Corner windows enhance an open, airy aesthetic.
Custom Shapes
For a unique look, custom windows can be crafted into nearly any shape, like rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, pentagons, octagons, circles, half-moons, ovals, gothic arches, and more. Shape windows lend unique character.
Frame Materials for Custom Kitchen Windows
Custom kitchen windows are available in a wide selection of frame materials, each with their own aesthetic, functional, and durability characteristics.
Wood
Beautiful and classic, wood frames bring warmth and elegance to kitchen windows. Options like pine, oak, and maple resist moisture, swelling, shrinking, and warping. Fiberglass cladding improves weather-resistance. Paint or stain protects wood while accentuating grain patterns.
Aluminum
A lightweight yet very sturdy option, aluminum offers slim, sleek framing for contemporary kitchen windows. It resists corrosion and requires minimal maintenance. Thermally broken aluminum improves insulation. Finishes like powder coating lend durability.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are affordable and effective at resisting weathering. Their insulating properties cut energy costs. Vinyl requires little upkeep and comes in a diverse selection of colors. Impact-resistant vinyl stands up well in high traffic kitchens.
Composite
Combining wood and vinyl or wood and aluminum, composites blend the durability, energy-efficiency, and stylish appearance of each material. Composite resists moisture, rotting, cracking, and warping for exceptional longevity and limited maintenance needs.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass window frames offer strength, stability, and energy efficiency. This composite resists warping from heat and moisture. Fiberglass works well combined with wood windows to prevent rotting and damage over time. The frames require minimal upkeep.
Steel
Steel window frames are very strong, stable, and durable, making them an ideal option for kitchens. Steel resists warping or damage over time, but thermal breaks help improve energy-efficiency. The industrial look complements some design styles well.
Additional Customizations
Beyond the frame material and window style, custom kitchen windows allow for modifications to suit your needs:
Glazing Options
Specialized glazing can make windows more energy efficient, secure, or noise reducing. Some options include extra glazing layers, electrochromic smart glass, laminated glass, and gas fills between panes. Integrated cordless blinds between glass panes simplify window treatments.
Hardware
Hardware allows windows to operate smoothly and properly secure them when closed. Custom hardware finishes like brass, bronze, nickel, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and black perfectly match your kitchen design and cabinet hardware. Hardware correlates with window style too.
Screens
Integrated screens allow windows to remain open for air ventilation while blocking insects, debris, and pollen. Screens can be full, partial, or retractable. They come in fiberglass, aluminum, bronze, pet-proof, and solar shade options. Screens mount inside, outside, or invisibly within frames.
Mullion Patterns
Mullions are the framing pieces that divide window panes within a single window unit. For grouped windows, endless mullion patterns and designs are possible to create your ideal look, from minimalist to ornately divided.
Interior Trims
The interior trim finish impacts the aesthetic quality of your custom windows. Options range from simple raw wood to elegant profiled casings with backbands, side trims, and sill trim. Stained, painted, or natural trims integrate seamlessly into your kitchen design.
Exterior Trims
Exterior trim finishes for custom windows also span from basic to detailed, improving insulation, water resistance, and visual appeal. Brickmould, sill nose, drip caps, head flashing, and jamb extentions finish windows professionally.
Key Measurements for Custom Kitchen Windows
Precision measurements are needed to achieve a perfect custom window installation:
- Opening size – The width and height of the window opening. This impacts the view and light quality. Measure precisely to avoid gaps or tight squeezes during installation.
- Rough opening – The full dimensions of the framing window opening, about 1/2 to 3/4 inches larger than the window size to allow inserting and securing it properly into the rough opening.
- Sill height – The vertical height from the floor to the bottom of the window sill. Standard counter height is 36 inches. Meet egress requirements as well.
- Window unit size – The overall external dimensions of the assembled window unit itself, including the glass panes and frame edges. Slightly smaller than rough opening size.
- Jamb depth – The horizontal depth of the wall space the window will be positioned into. Impacts how recessed or flush the installed window appears.
- Mullion widths – The widths of vertical and horizontal framing pieces dividing individual window units. Impact sightlines, pane sizes, and aesthetic.
- Frame widths – The dimensions of the window framing on all sides. Impacts glass visibility and interior trim requirements.
Carefully measuring and planning all critical window dimensions ensures your custom kitchen windows fit perfectly and function optimally.
Design Considerations for Kitchen Windows
Strategically incorporating high quality custom windows into your kitchen design requires careful planning and consideration:
Placement
- Prioritize windows adjacent to countertops, sinks, and prep areas to draw light onto workspaces.
- Place windows to allow diners to enjoy pleasing exterior views.
- Ensure adequate airflow near stoves, ovens, and other heat and moisture producing appliances.
- Avoid positioning behind appliances or cabinets that will block light and views through the glass.
Quantity
- In general, include window space covering 15-25% of overall kitchen wall space.
- More windows increase sunlight, ventilation, and an open aesthetic. However, too many windows can cause heat loss, glare issues, and privacy concerns.
- Carefully balance window quantity with adequate wall space for necessary cabinetry, appliances, and countertops.
Size
- Use larger windows next to sinks, counters, and eating areas to amplify light, views, and an airy feel.
- Opt for smaller windows on walls with limited space or near appliances where ventilation is needed without maximizing size.
- Ensure windows meet any required egress dimensions for emergency exits, if applicable.
- Large windows must be adequately supported with headers sized correctly for the wall span.
Style and Configuration
- Select styles that match the kitchen’s overall design and architecture, from old world traditional to sleek contemporary.
- Grouped windows and corner windows draw substantial light from multiple angles.
- Transom windows, curved windows, and unique shapes add character.
- Ventilation focused styles like awning and jalousie windows work well near stoves and ovens.
- Casements and awnings allow directional control of air flow.
When thoughtfully designed and positioned, custom kitchen windows create style, functionality, comfort, and joy in kitchen spaces.
Integrating Custom Windows into Kitchen Remodeling Projects
Kitchen remodeling presents an ideal opportunity to upgrade existing windows to newer, high performing custom windows perfect for your kitchen’s new design.
Remove the Old Windows
Start by fully removing existing windows, including the frames and any surrounding trim or finishing elements. Assess if the underlying wall structure needs reinforcement to properly support new custom windows. Also inspect for any hidden damage exposed by the old windows removal.
Prepare the Opening
Make any necessary structural improvements to strengthen the window opening. Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and level so new windows will install plumb and square. Repair any blemishes in the wall finish. Prepare electrical for any new lighting or outlets being added around the windows.
Install Flashing Tape
Install flashing tape along the sides and top of the window opening. This creates a moisture barrier between the framing and raw opening. The flashing redirects water outside and prevents leaks that lead to rot and mold growth around the window over time.
Install the New Custom Windows
Set the window into the rough opening atop the flashing tape. Shims may be used around the perimeter to achieve a level fit and fill any gaps. Securely fasten the window into the framing using the provided screws and installation brackets. Caulk along the interior and exterior perimeter for an airtight seal.
Add Interior and Exterior Trims
Install interior wood trims, jamb extensions, casings, and aprons with carefully mitered corners to frame out the window beautifully on the inside. Exterior trims like brickmoulds, head flashing, and sill nose improve weather sealing and drainage on the exterior.
Finish Touches
With the new windows installed properly, complete the installation by adding any desired mullions, interior or exterior windowshutters, and hardware for opening and locking. Test operation and make final adjustments as needed. Finish off with interior paint or stain and sealant on the exterior.
With proper planning and strategic window placement, a kitchen remodeling project is an ideal opportunity to upgrade to custom windows that maximize aesthetics, functionality, light, views, and ventilation.
Maintaining Custom Kitchen Windows
While custom kitchen windows are designed to be durable, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional, proper maintenance is required to keep them working their best over many years.
Cleaning
- Wash windows monthly using a soft lint-free cloth, mild detergent, and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use a soft brush for stuck-on debris.
- Immediately wipe up any spills, grease, or cooking residue to avoid stains.
- For exterior windows, gently clean with an extendable pole brush and window cleaning solution.
- Vacuum tracks and wipe down frames regularly to remove dust and dirt buildup.
Sealing
- Inspect exterior caulking and sealing annually, repairing any cracked or worn spots to prevent moisture intrusion and air leaks.
- Re-apply exterior sealants after any pressure washing of siding that could compromise the watertight seal around windows.
Protecting
- Install window film or UV resistant window treatments to protect interior furnishings from sun damage.
- Keep windows locked when not in use and install security features like laminated glass to deter intruders.
- Cover windows carefully when painting or cleaning nearby to avoid splatters, scratches, or chemical damage to the glass or frames.
- Trim back any encroaching tree branches or vegetation to prevent damage in storms.
Operational Care
- Lubricate hinges and moving parts annually to maintain smooth opening and closing.
- Ensure drains and weep holes are clear of debris to prevent water build up.
- Have any broken, cracked, fogging, or failing panes of glass replaced by a professional immediately.
- Adjust locking mechanisms as needed to ensure windows operate properly and seal fully closed.
With regular care and maintenance, custom designed kitchen windows will function optimally and maintain their beauty for many years while increasing comfort and satisfaction in your kitchen.
Pros and Cons of Custom Kitchen Windows
Custom kitchen windows provide tons of possibilities for materials, styles, sizes, placement, and features to match your exact aesthetic and functional needs. However, custom windows do come with some drawbacks to weigh against the benefits when making design choices.
Pros of Custom Kitchen Windows
- Perfectly sized for the space and existing openings.
- Endless style options from shapes to frames to mullion patterns.
- Selected specifically for your design theme and architecture.
- Built with your desired materials and features like glazing, trims, etc.
- Energy efficient, durable, and low maintenance if properly designed.
- Allow incorporation of special functional features like vents.
- Provides exact views, light, and airflow tailored to your kitchen layout.
Cons of Custom Kitchen Windows
- More expensive upfront cost compared to stock windows.
- Require accurate measurements and skilled installation for proper fit.
- Could take longer to receive if not readily available.
- Provides less flexibility for further renovations down the road.
- Repairs and replacements can be more challenging and costly.
- Limited ability to make adjustments to the custom windows after installation.
Overall, the benefits of customized windows made specifically for your kitchen generally outweigh the drawbacks of higher cost and less future flexibility. Just be sure to work with an excellent designer and installer to get them right the first time.
Common Questions about Custom Kitchen Windows (with Answers)
- Are custom kitchen windows more energy efficient? Yes, custom windows can maximize energy efficiency by tailoring glazing, gas fills, weatherstripping, and frame materials to your climate and needs. They seal tightly and reduce air leaks.
- Do custom windows allow for better lighting? Custom windows placed properly optimize natural light throughout your kitchen. Size, quantity, and positioning are all customized to your space.
- Can custom windows help reduce outside noise? Yes, some glazing options like laminated glass effectively dampen outside noise infiltration. Custom windows seal tightly mitigating noise leaks.
- Do custom windows have to match a home’s existing windows? Custom windows do not necessarily have to match other windows, especially if those are old and inferior. However, having all windows coordinate provides good design continuity.
- Can custom windows improve kitchen resale value? Yes, upgrading old windows to new custom windows matching your kitchen design style makes the space more attractive to future buyers, boosting resale value.
- Are there safety regulations for kitchen windows? Depending on height off the ground, kitchen windows may need tempered glass, fall prevention features, and egress dimension minimums to meet safety codes. Custom allows adherence to any specific regulations.
- Will custom windows limit future kitchen remodeling options? Custom windows make subsequent renovations involving those walls and openings more difficult since the windows won’t be adaptable to changes.
- What are the most durable materials for custom kitchen windows? Wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and composite frames resist wear, weather, impact, and
