Garden windows, sometimes called greenhouse windows, are similar in appearance to bay windows, but are much smaller. Originally placed over a kitchen sink for growing herbs and other small plants, garden windows look almost like miniature greenhouses. They usually contain shelves so that they can accommodate more than one row of plants; sometimes the shelves are adjustable to handle different sizes of plants. Usually the side windows in a garden window are operational, which allows breezes to enter the room.
Garden windows are an interesting architectural feature that allows more light to enter a room and gives indoor plants an optimal place to grow. Garden replacement windows are popular additions to many kitchen remodels, since they are fairly simple to install and are relatively inexpensive. Available in a variety of materials, garden replacement windows come in styles that coordinate with other windows in your home. Wood, vinyl, and aluminum are some of the more common materials from which garden windows are made. Wood is attractive and can be stained or painted to match any color scheme, but it requires regular upkeep to ensure that it looks its best. As garden windows are often used for growing plants, the proximity of water to the window makes wood not a very good choice. Vinyl is an excellent option for garden replacement windows; vinyl is lightweight, inexpensive, and comes in a variety of integral colors. Another good choice for a garden window is aluminum; this material is strong yet still lightweight, and it is quite inexpensive, as well.
Garden windows have gained in popularity in recent years, and they are available from a variety of window manufacturers. Some of the companies that make garden replacement windows include Pella, Jeld-Wen, Kolbe, Bay World, and Gorell.
To see how garden windows could enhance the beauty of your home, the next step is to talk with experienced window replacement contractors in your area. These professionals have experience with selecting and installing garden replacement windows and can advise you about the features and benefits of these windows. They can also provide you with estimates and references for similar jobs they have performed. Be sure to obtain estimates in writing so you can easily compare quotes among contractors.