Windows need to be functional and improve architectural aesthetics. Some standard features to consider when picking the right windows are security, access to natural light, design, longevity, and appeal.
Upgrading your property with new windows may increase its property value and improve the building’s internal atmosphere. Read on to learn about the different window options in Malaysia.
Quick answer: The most common types of windows in Malaysian homes and buildings are sliding, casement, awning (top-hung), louvre and fixed glass windows. For Malaysia’s heavy rain, awning windows are the safest to leave open, casement windows seal well and give strong airflow, sliding windows suit tight spaces, and louvre windows maximise ventilation. Aluminium frames are the most popular because they don’t rust or rot in humid weather.
What Are the Types of Windows in Malaysia?
Technology is helping the window industry innovate and invent different types of products. There are various designs to choose from, and they differ in their performance.
Modern milestones in architecture are slowly permeating residential and commercial buildings. As a result, many windows are now outfitted with using smart glass technology.
Property owners need to weigh a ton of options when choosing window themes for their buildings. As there are hundreds of window shapes and sizes out there, it might help to understand what your indoor space is like, and how much natural light should be allowed in.
Will the window need to be opened frequently to improve ventilation or will it be fixed in place?
Furthermore, is it sustainable?
With the “going green” initiative, most property owners have taken to sustainable interior design.
All of these considerations have filled the market with a range of window types. Here, we will cover some of the most popular types of windows in Malaysia.
Types of Windows in Malaysia Compared
| Window type | How it opens | Ventilation | Good when raining? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single hung | Bottom sash slides up | Medium | Partly | Budget homes |
| Double hung | Top and bottom sashes slide | Medium–High | Partly | Easy cleaning, flexible airflow |
| Casement (side hung) | Swings out on side hinges | High | No (close in rain) | Large openings, bedrooms |
| Awning (top hung) | Pushes out from the bottom | Medium | Yes | Rainy areas, bathrooms |
| Bay | Fixed centre, opening sides | Medium | Partly | Living rooms, views |
| Fixed glass | Does not open | None | Yes | Views, light, high floors |
| French | Two tall panels swing open | High | No | Balconies, feature walls |
| Aluminium | Frame material (any style) | Depends on style | Depends on style | Malaysian humidity |
| Sliding | Slides sideways | Medium | Partly | Small spaces, condos |
| Picture | Does not open | None | Yes | Framing a view |
| Pivoted | Rotates on a centre pivot | High | Partly | Feature design |
| Louvre (jalousie) | Slats tilt together | Very high | Yes (slats shed rain) | Bathrooms, kitchens, patios |
| Round | Usually fixed | Low | Yes | Decorative accent |
1. Single Hung Window
The type of window has two significant parts, known as a sash. One is movable while the other is stationary. The upper part is fixed while you can move the bottom sash up to open the windows.
Single-hung window designs are affordable and an excellent choice when you want lots of air to enter the house. Glass used for single-hung windows should have been proofed and tested so that they can withstand harsh weather.
2. Double Hung Window
The double-hung window is similar to the single-hung window’s design. The difference is that the sashes in the former option move.
It means you can open the double-hung window from the bottom and top. Still, the glass can tilt inwards or outwards, making cleaning them easy. A technician can customize the double-hung windows depending on the room size.
At the same time, you can choose different raw materials depending on the environment you install them in.
3. Casement Window (Side hung window)
The casement windows design uses hinges on either side of the window glass frame. Unlike awning windows, the casement windows swing outwards or upwards when you open them.
They are ideal for large window spaces and will give you an expansive view of the outside. Still, it helps with ventilation, creating a massive opening for adequate air to enter a room. It helps freshen up the spaces through air circulation.
4. Awning Window (Top hung window)
If you live where it rains frequently, awning windows can fit the environment. The design is great for preventing rain from entering the house.
They function similarly to casement windows but extend outwards by pushing the bottom part away from the house. Awning windows are a suitable choice if you want to let a lot of air indoors.
5. Bay Window
The frame in bay windows extends outwards while the design covers a large central portion of the wall. It gives you an extensive view of the outdoors and is an excellent addition to a bedroom or a common area on a higher floor.
They usually have a fixed middle section with two smaller panes on the sides that can be opened and closed. Bay windows are great for maximizing natural light and conserving energy.
However, in tropical climates, they might allow too much sun in, and that might make the space too warm.
6. Fixed Glass Window (Fixed Glass Panel Window)
Architects use fixed glass windows to give a person a sizeable outside view. They will not help with ventilation as they are immovable.
You can make the frames as wide as possible to get an uninterrupted view. Also, combining the fixed glass window with another variation like the sliding windows you can open will make them more functional.
It is advisable to select a type of glass that will not break easily. Laminated glass is a possible option.
7. French Window
They are functional window frames and will improve the property’s aesthetics. The french window designs are oversized and will open outwards or inwards, with a structure that will let maximum air and light into the house.
The extensive panels can cover an entire wall length from top to bottom. Although they are classic designs, the French window is becoming more common in modern house plans as their outlook is elegant and timeless.
8. Aluminium Window
The aluminium window works great in the Malaysian climate. Unlike wood or synthetic materials, the alloy is durable and suits weather conditions.
The outer frame will be made of aluminium and you can choose a fitting glass to compliment it. Professional aluminium windows will give you a maximum product lifespan as the material is more durable and robust than the alternatives.
It will not rust or degrade quickly. Also, it helps with energy consumption through its thermal conductivity features.
9. Sliding Windows
If you have limited space for opening windows, you can solve the problem with sliding windows. They are not uncommon with urban property designs because they have limited space.
The windows slide horizontally to open and close. These tend to be the choice of function rather than aesthetics.
10. Picture Window
Picture windows are great for framing the outside scenery into what starts to look like an actual picture or painting. This thick framing helps highlight the scenery and there are often no window grills that will interfere with the view.
If you live where nature is omnipresent, the picture window is the perfect choice for you. Many have thought it therapeutic to stand in front of a picture window and simply gaze outdoors.
11. Pivoted Window
The pivoted window is similar to the casement window design since they have movable parts. However, the pivot is central and can select a design that moves horizontally or vertically.
The design has different variations to suit your preference and make the windows appealing. You can choose a rectangular or circular shape depending on the house’s exterior design.
Consider the glass features to ensure it is a functional addition to your house.
12. Louvre Window (Jalousie Window)
The frame in Louvre windows will have features known as slats that move together when opening or closing. They can let in adequate air and light to rooms while keeping the rain out.
This makes them highly functional for residential or commercial property. Still, you can choose from various raw materials for slats and frames. Aluminium and wood are standard options for jalousie windows. They are an excellent choice for patio or rooftop windows.
13. Round Window
Round windows fit both traditional residences and modern buildings. The cyclic windows are available in round or oval shapes and can truly complement the house’s interior design.
They will add some personality to the living room and give it a unique outlook.
Despite its size, they will let natural light into the house. A functional design will integrate other window types that you can open to allow air into the home.
How Do You Choose the Right Type of Window?
- Ventilation: Need airflow? Choose casement, louvre or double hung windows. Only need light? Choose fixed or picture windows.
- Rain: Want to leave windows open during storms? Choose awning or louvre windows.
- Space: No room for a sash to swing out? Choose sliding windows.
- Security: Fixed and casement windows with strong locks are harder to force open than louvres.
- Heat and glare: Large bay, picture and fixed windows let in more heat, so pair them with smart glass or low-E glass.
- Maintenance: Aluminium frames resist rust and rot in Malaysian humidity.
Can You Use Smart Glass With Any Window Type?
Chiefway offers smart glass windows that add to home automation efforts. By leveraging technology to manufacture superior products, you gain ultimate convenience from a small investment. Products with smart glass design are becoming widely popular and can be adapted for residential and commercial settings.
Smart glass windows offer increased privacy, and you can use them in place of blinds. The technology enables you to alter the window opacity. You can switch from translucent to clear glass using a switch. Smart glass windows give you the best of daylighting architecture, ensuring that you receive a healthy dose of natural light.
At the same time, when it’s too bright, you can decrease the light transmittance without the use of blinds.
The available options at Chiefway will give your home an elegant and minimalistic theme. With all these benefits and more, it becomes clear that smart glass is well ahead of traditional windows.
Although they do require electricity to operate, they are affordable as it consumes minimal power. Smart glass technology is ideal for corporate buildings, healthcare facilities, residential houses, entryways, interior design and much more.
Hop on the smart glass trend today and combine smart glass with any type of window in Malaysia!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Types
Which type of window is best for Malaysia’s weather?
Awning and louvre windows can stay open in rain, and aluminium frames handle humidity without rusting. Casement windows give the strongest airflow but should be closed during storms.
What is the difference between single hung and double hung windows?
A single hung window has a fixed top sash and a bottom sash that slides up. In a double hung window both sashes move, so you can open it from the top or bottom, and the sashes often tilt for easy cleaning.
Are louvre windows good for Malaysian homes?
Yes, for airflow. Louvre slats let air and light in while shedding rain, which suits bathrooms and kitchens. They seal less tightly than casement or fixed windows, so they are less suited to air-conditioned rooms.
What window type is best for small spaces?
Sliding windows, because they open sideways and need no clearance to swing in or out.
Can smart glass be used with any type of window?
Smart glass can be combined with most window types, letting you switch the glass from clear to frosted for privacy instead of using blinds. Contact Chiefway to check what suits your window frames.
Summary: Which Window Type Should You Choose?
Make sure to pick a reputable company to help with a first-time smart glass installation. Chiefway is an award-winning company that adheres to industry standards while utilizing trained technicians and state-of-the-art technology to manufacture the best smart glass products.
Check out the different types of smart glass we offer and reach out to tell us about your project!
