Among the most prominent design and home renovation trends of 2022 is connecting with nature. Homeowners want more natural light, choosing more oversized windows that enhance the atmosphere of an open home that connects to the outdoors. And to make the transition from the indoors to the outdoors even more seamless, one of the best options in the market is floor-to-ceiling windows.
With years of experience performing window replacements throughout Maryland, G.H. Clark Contractors has had countless homeowners bring up window walls. Many people see them as a prominent feature in many luxury real estate properties and want to mimic the effect in their own homes.
But floor-to-ceiling windows, as with any major home renovation project, are a significant investment. They will act as whole walls in one area of the living space and require oversize panes of glass. Before you decide on installing them, consider the pros and cons carefully.
Pros of Window Walls
More natural light
The primary reason you might install floor-to-ceiling windows is to allow more natural light into the home. With no wall obstruction and much more glass, sunlight can flood the room from virtually every direction.
At the same time, you save energy. More natural light means you use up less energy for indoor lighting as long as there’s still daylight outside. The best place to add window walls is an area that gets the maximum angle of sunlight through the day so you can maximize the light.
Illusion of space
Replacing the walls with windows opens up your space. Even a small room could look more spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows. For example, if you set floor-to-ceiling windows on either side of a room, not only would the room look much brighter, but it would also look more expansive.
Transitions to outdoor space
Most floor-to-ceiling windows are placed toward a garden view, lawns, or scenery. These windows are excellent for creating transitions between indoor and outdoor space, which is why they’re also frequently used to lead towards patios or decks.
Downsides of Window Walls
High cost of installation
Expect to pay more than average windows. The price range for floor-to-ceiling windows ranges from $700-$1600 per foot, without counting any framing, treatments, or specific glaze. There’s also the cost of design, extra engineering, and structural components.
Remember that these windows are stand-alone and are not anchored to a wall like average windows. They need to be structurally sound and support that section of the wall.
Lack of privacy
With large windows come ample viewing space both inside and out. People outside are more easily able to see what’s going on inside your home. There’s always the option of blinds and curtains. However, even when drawn aside, they can hinder the illusion of seamlessness from indoors to the outdoors.J
One way to resolve this is to add a special tint to the windows to allow you to look outdoors safely but prevent others from looking inside. This may add to the cost of the windows, but it’s an effective way to get privacy without interrupting the transitional space.
Heat loss
A home loses about 20%-30% of its internal heat through the windows. The larger the windows, the more heat escapes. It may end up costing you more in heating bills.
Consult with Window Replacement and Installation Specialists
Overall, floor-to-ceiling windows are often seen in luxury homes because that’s what they are—a luxury. While they have excellent benefits and are aesthetically pleasing, they come with a high price tag. However, speak to professional contractors who have had a lot of experience installing various windows. You may be able to get the same effect without the downsides.
For example, you might be able to replicate the concept with sliding glass doors or multiple fixed windows. Lift and side doors are also another option. Overall, an expert contractor would help you balance the expense and the benefits.
G.H. Clark Contractors has installed countless windows into homes and commercial properties in Maryland. We are fully certified in producing quality workmanship in window replacement and installation. Contact us today to get a free estimate, or browse our gallery for design inspiration.