Window wisdom

While doing up the house, it’s not just the furniture, accessories, upholstery and doors that render an interesting look. Windows too play a big role. They’re not just ventilation points but also windows to the outside world, writes Swati Kapur.

Often I sit next to my window, sipping coffee, gazing into oblivion and that’s the most peaceful activity providing comfort, solace and all that I need to just be with myself.

Thanks to the windows in the house. They instantly disconnect us from all that we want to leave behind and offer a view that’s calming and refreshing.

It’s all the better if you choose your favourite window and make it your comfort zone by throwing in cushions, rugs and a few books. But before that you should know the kinds of windows available and what suits your requirements and tastes: 

Fixed: This kind of window cannot be opened. It is usually inexpensive and suitable for higher windows which need not be opened at all.

Double hung: One of the most common windows all over the world. The window consists of two sashes that move up and down. The outside upper sash slides down and inside lower sash slides up.

Only half of the window can be opened at a time. The best feature of this window is that the top half can be opened while the bottom remains closed. These can be installed practically anywhere in the house.

Bay windows: Hinged vertically to swing in and out like a door and operated by a crank, these windows give the house a three-dimensional feel. Usually the large central window is fixed, while the side window open.

Awning: Awning windows are hinged horizontally. These are great solutions for bedrooms and other areas where privacy is desired.

These windows have a glass sheet which is hinged at the top and swings outside. The most significant feature of these windows is that they can be opened little by little as required for ventilation.

As a result, they are usually installed in the form of a column above the large patio doors for airy interiors.

Jalousie: Also called louvers, jalousie windows are horizontally placed narrow strips of glass, lowered by cranks.

These windows are basically glass shutter made out of glass slats which are set with the help of metal clips and can be opened or closed in unison.

These windows are extremely affordable and thus ideal for closed rooms such as lounges, bedrooms and sun rooms.

Sliding: These windows move on top and bottom tracks. They are very common and inexpensive.

Paladian: A window that consists of three windows with an arch over the centre. These have become very popular in the last decade and provide visual interest and drama to a home.

Picture: These are large fixed windows offering unobstructed and amazing view of the outside and a sense of richness and luxury to the house.

These are usually ideal for locations where ventilation isn’t a major concern. Installing them high on the walls of hallways and dark rooms brings perfect lighting to the room.

Clerestory: Windows which were especially popular in craftsman homes in yesteryears. They consist of strips of small horizontal panes set high on a wall.

Elliptical or arched: These are often placed above double hung or fixed windows in today’s new homes.

Create a focal point

So the windows are installed. So now it’s time to make a comfort den to slide in any time you want. A French window adds a unique beauty and elegance to the home.

Highlight the windows with beautiful curtains. Lace curtains add a Victorian touch and render a luxurious airy appearance. Select drapes for a royal look.

If you have light coloured windows choose light frilly curtains. Also position dark coloured furniture around a light coloured window. For full length windows, go for long curtains touching the floor. Long windows instantly transform a small room by giving the illusion of a big luxurious one.

Keep in mind the use and position of the window before choosing the glass. Frosted windows are best for bathrooms and changing areas. During night it makes for a glowing diffused look.

Rajasthani jharokhas can be added to deck up your den. They don’t just add to the grandeur but also make for an interesting view. Jharokhas with inlay work can actually set the tone for the decor of the rest of the room.

Cushions can be used to make for a cosy seating arrangements. Change the look every now and then with the drapes, cushion covers and artifacts around. Blinds are another easy way to decorate your windows. Silk and tissue blinds are summery and chic. 

Scrub it off

It’s important to make sure that the windows are cleaned from time to time. Start with the frames. Dust always hides there. Remember, before you spray any liquid cleaner, dry-dust it to avoid mini soil pools that end up spreading to the rest of the window.

Mix water and vinegar or lime juice to treat grease on glass. Also, post cleaning with a detergent or cleaning solution, wipe the window with a dry cloth while the window is still a bit moist in order to remove all possible remaining dirt.

Windows look best if they are cleaned on a regular basis. Here’s how to make your job simple:

Wash one side of the window with horizontal strokes and the other side with vertical strokes so you can pinpoint which side of the window has a streak.

A squeegee on a long handle or a sponge-squeegee combination is best to prevent streaks on large windows.

Eliminate tiny scratches on glass by polishing the affected areas with toothpaste.
Washing windows should be done on a cloudy day, because direct sunlight dries the cleaning solutions before you can polish the glass properly.

Use a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to clean the corners.

To give an extra shine to window glass, polish it with well-washed cotton T-shirts or old cloth diapers. Or just rub a clean blackboard eraser over a freshly washed and dried window to give it a diamond-bright shine.

Polish windows to a sparkling shine with crumpled newspaper.

The paper also leaves a film that's resistant to dirt.

Wash windows from the top down to prevent drips.

Remember that window cleaners pose a threat to woodwork. Don’t let them drip on the windowsill where they can harm the paint or varnish.

Your very own homemade window cleanser:  Use two tablespoons ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol and 1/4 teaspoon dishwashing detergent.

Add all ingredients to a small spray bottle with water and shake well. You can substitute three tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice for the ammonia.