Windows make up a fundamental part of every house bringing in light, air and making it look attractive. In the Philippines, a country with a tropical climate, the windows you buy have to be selected right in order for you to feel comfortable in them and also save on energy. For homeowners, they could opt for either conventional windows or sliding window Philippines ones which are quite common today. Thus, let’s make a comparison between these two types of windows for informed decision making when it comes to building houses in the Philippines. 

Traditional Windows

Casement or awning windows, also known as traditional windows are those that are hinged at the sides and open outwards using either a crank or a lever mechanism. They usually come in wood, aluminum and uPVC materials and can be designed in many ways such as single-hanged type, double-hung types among others. 

Pros

Standard windows allow good air ventilation because they can be completely opened for average temperature throughout the room. This is most beneficial in a country like the Philippines where proper cooling and comfort depend on adequate air flow. It is important to remember when selecting different types and designs of windows. The points raised in this article are thus crucial when deciding which window type or design one should use. Depending on individual preferences, people choose different kinds of style. 

Their timeless design and classic look can make any house beautiful and unique. One can choose from different types that could go with various architectural styles as well as indoor themes, such as country or contemporary. Traditional windows can be energy-efficient if properly installed and sealed. This way, the consumption of energy can be reduced due to less heat gain or loss; hence lower energy bills ensure. In addition, they can also offer a good degree of soundproofing as well as protection from elements outside the house. 

Cons

Opening them requires that there be some space outside because traditional windows open up and out as the swelling of their door pushes them away from their frame. This might pose some challenges in enclosed spaces. Windows like the traditional one having moving parts such as hinges and crankshafts could need serving regularly for them to remain effective, smooth and less prone to damage due to wear out. What this specifically entails includes oiling hinges, changing weather strips as well as fixing damage caused by any means on the frame or hardware. 

Furthermore, in homes with young children or pets, outward opening traditional windows can be dangerous. To avoid accidents and allow for safety it is important to focus more on keeping the occupant safe if one lives in upper floors or high-rise buildings. 

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are also called moving windows or sliders and they are composed of more than two sashes which move along tracks in a horizontal direction so as to open or close. They are mainly made using aluminum, uPVC or aluminum-clad wood and come in different forms such as single-sliding, double-sliding, triple-sliding among others.

Pros

In case of limited space or where outward clearance is constrained, e.g., balconies, patios or walkways, the best type of windows to use are the sliding ones. This is because horizontally sliding windows do not project themselves outward into the living room, hence optimizing the amount of flooring that can be effectively used. Tracks are designed to make sliding windows easy to operate, so that one can open and shut them effortlessly. It is therefore ideal for aged or disabled people who find it hard to use manual windows that have gears and handles. 

Furthermore, they come in numerous significant dimensions and can be tailored using different frame colors and finishes to match contemporary architecture; thus, giving them a sophisticated and current look with simple lines and no visual obstruction. 

Cons

In comparison with conventional windows, sliding windows create less air circulation. Only one side of the window can be opened for ventilation. This lack of flexibility in airflow may make particular areas of the room uncomfortable due to hot and humid conditions. In order to run effectively and avoid accumulation of dirt in their channels, sliding windows need servicing at intervals. Dirt particles as well as other foreign materials may be collected within them causing them to either jam or tick after some period has elapsed. Thus, it is important that sliding doors are washed thoroughly occasionally apart from applying oil on the bearings. 

Moreover, sliding windows are a bit of a problem when they are not in good condition especially when rails  or weather-strips are worn or damaged. When the windows are not well sealed, they can have draughts that result in loss of heat or air conditioning costing the owner a lot of money because of energy wastage due to the low energy efficiency in the house due to heat loss. 

Key Takeaway  

Traditional windows and sliding windows offer distinct advantages and drawbacks for households in the Philippines. They are reputed in terms of ventilation, aesthetic value, and energy efficiency but must have adequate space for out-swinging and maintenance also. Sliding windows, on the other hand, make use of  space-saving design, are simple to operate and have a stylish appearance, but they lack proper ventilation and sometimes need more frequent maintenance so that there are no problems with sealing or accumulation of dirt in the tracks.

The decision between traditional windows and sliding windows will be made depending on personal preferences, design considerations, space availability, or financial constraints. It helps to think through the advantages and disadvantages of various kinds of windows in respect to your own needs and desires in the Philippines to enable you to make a wise choice that adds comfort and convenience. Your home can be more comfortable, functional and appealing if you know what you want and have a precise requirement through looking at the merits and demerits of each type of window before making any choice.