On the coast, choosing the right window style isn’t as simple as picking the design that fits your desired home aesthetic. While that’s certainly an important component, coastal homeowners face unique environmental limitations.
We’re talking…
- Salt spray that inevitably leads to corrosion & grime build-up
- Sand that loves to accelerate the deterioration process
- Humid air just begging to squeeze through every crack in your seal
- Heavy storms, hurricanes, and flooding that threaten serious destruction without the proper window protection
After 25+ years of helping North Carolina homeowners select the perfect windows for their coastal homes, we’ve learned a few things about what works and what doesn’t.
First, Identify Your Priorities
Before we dive headlong into our discussion of coastal window design, let’s outline all the factors that should play into your decision:
- Material Durability — Is the glass designed to withstand harsh coastal conditions? (impact resistance, corrosion resistance, UV protection, etc.)
- Maintenance Requirements — How easy is it to clean different window components? (glass panes, tracks, etc.)
- Energy Efficiency — How might the window size impact your home’s energy efficiency?
- Ventilation — Does the window type support proper airflow and humidity control throughout the home?
- Views — How well does the window frame your natural surroundings?
- Home Aesthetics — Does the window style match your preferred coastal architecture style?
Best Window Styles for Coastal Homes
- Single-Hung or Double-Hung Windows
The most traditional type of window, single-hung and double-hung windows feature window sashes (frames) that slide up and down on a vertical track.
- Single-hung windows can only open from the bottom.
- Double-hung windows can open from the top OR bottom.
In most cases, the upper sash and lower sash are equally sized and adorned with a decorative grille—from traditional grid patterns to elegant prairie or diamond styles.
Both single-hung and double-hung windows are pretty easy to clean—some models boast tilt-out features specifically designed with cleaning in mind.
Then, at nighttime and when tropical storms blow through, the windows can be locked for added security.
Double-hung windows offer the special perk of improved airflow, replacing hot, muggy interior air with fresher, cooler outside air when the upper sash is pulled down. Plus, they are a safer option for children, preventing climbing through the lower sash.
- Casement Windows
Hinged on the side and opened with a hand crank or lever, casement windows swing outward to control airflow without opening too far.
Casement windows offer excellent ventilation in humid coastal environments while maintaining a high level of security and energy efficiency. When closed, the window seals tightly, keeping cool air in and warm air out.
Plus, the hand crank mechanism makes this style extremely user-friendly, ideal in hard-to-reach locations or for those with special accessibility needs.
One of our favorite places to see sliding windows in coastal homes is right above the kitchen sink, as leaning over the sink to open a single-hung window can be a bit of a challenge.
- Sliding Windows
Similar to single-hung windows, sliding windows feature movable sashes. However, instead of moving vertically, they slide along a horizontal track, offering impressive panoramic views of your surroundings.
Creating a simple, clean aesthetic, this alternative window style has become a popular choice for modern coastal kitchens, bedrooms, and dining rooms. Plus, they are generally more accessible than standard single-hung or double-hung windows.
- Picture Windows
If your goal is to maximize your oceanfront views, a fixed “picture” window is a great option. While picture windows cannot open, they can be as large as you like (within reason), fluidly merging your home interior with your breathtaking coastal surroundings and bringing in loads of natural light.
Apart from the lack of ventilation, there’s one other major limitation of picture windows: energy efficiency.
On the one hand, they save energy because they never open.
But in coastal regions that enjoy long daylight hours year-round, large picture windows can make it difficult to maintain a cool, comfortable home. To avoid overworking your HVAC system, you’ll need to invest in energy-efficient glass.
- Awning Windows
Hinged at the top and tilting outward, awning windows are coveted in coastal areas because of their ability to provide targeted ventilation and remain open when it rains (which it does quite often in coastal North Carolina).
Awning windows typically aren’t very big and are often chosen for more practical purposes, like improving ventilation in bathrooms. In most cases, they are positioned higher on walls, often in combination with other larger window styles.
- Bay or Bow Windows
Bay or bow windows generally extend outward from the wall, adding unique architectural interest, offering stunning panoramic views, and expanding the interior space.
Depending on configuration, bay or bow windows naturally create space for a small bench or reading nook, making them a popular choice for main living spaces and master bedrooms.
While the names are often used interchangeably, bay and bow windows have subtle differences:
- Bay windows typically consist of one fixed central window and two (fixed or opening) windows angled on either side, creating a deep indent for a cozy seating area.
- Bow windows generally use four or more windows to create a gently curving arc, often chosen for their elegant architectural appeal.
| Window Style | Pros | Cons |
| Double-Hung Windows | DurabilityGood ventilationEase of cleaning (tilt-in options available)Classic look, suitable for many home stylesBudget-friendlyIncreased customization options | More difficult to open & close than other stylesSometimes less energy efficient than casement windows |
| Casement Windows | Excellent ventilation when fully openTight seal for optimal energy efficiencyEnhanced security (hook-style locks) | Challenging to clean exterior glass from insideCan obstruct walkways/landscaping when open |
| Sliding Windows | Wide viewsAccessibility/ease of operationSimple design (fewer moving parts)Affordable | Track maintenance & cleaning requirementsLimited ventilation (only half the window opens)May allow more drafts |
| Picture Windows | Maximizing scenic views & natural lightEnergy efficiency (since they never open) | No ventilationCan be large & costly |
| Awning Windows | Ventilation (even with light rain)Heightened privacy & security | Limited opening sizeDifficult to clean exterior |
| Bay or Windows | Expanded interior spaceElevated architectural interestAllows for creative window combinations | More expensive installationProne to leaks without proper installationMay reduce wall space for furniture |
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, these window styles are just a jumping-off point. When you work with a custom glass company like Atlantic Glass, the sky is the limit. If you have a specific window design in mind, our skilled glass professionals can get the job done!
Live in or around Wilmington, NC? Schedule a free professional consultation with one of our window glass specialists today!
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Great insights on modern coastal window styles! Large picture and sliding windows enhance ocean views while keeping the design sleek and airy. For those looking to replicate this style, especially in Ireland, companies offering Doors And Windows Cork can help achieve a similar modern coastal aesthetic with durable, stylish options. Thanks for the helpful inspiration!