Where to Install New Windows for Improved Natural Light

Do you feel that even on the sunniest days, your home is too dark and cool? You might feel you’d thrive better in a home that is bright, warm, and open, but might not want to or be able to move. Unfortunately, artificial light also does not help in the way that natural light can. While it seems like a problem you can’t fix, the solution is simple: strategically installing new windows!

Let’s explore the best places to install new windows, ensuring you maximize light while enjoying beautiful sights and not breaking the budget.

Related Article: Is It Time to Replace My Windows?

I Have Windows But No Light

You may be wondering why your home is so dark when you have plenty of windows. The answer lies in where your windows are in your home and which direction they face.

If you have many windows, but the majority of them are in rooms that are closed off from the rest of your home, then the light will rarely make its way into deeper parts of the house. You might also often close these doors, which completely cuts out the light.

If your kitchen and living areas are towards the middle of your home’s layout, they’ll likely feel dark, whereas homes with more open layouts and living areas with exterior walls will have more natural light pouring in.

Further, it’s important to understand which direction your home faces and where the sun rises and sets. One part of your house might get more morning light, while the other gets the sunset. It’s also possible that all your windows do not get direct sunlight, making the rooms even dimmer.

In order to fix the lack of natural light, you’ll need to consider strategically placing windows.

What Does It Mean to Strategically Place a Window?

Fortunately, installing new windows for natural light does not have to be a major renovation. Even one or two smartly-placed windows can make a huge difference because they take advantage of the sun’s direction and the layout of your home. In order to do this well, you’ll want to identify the places where you are most bothered by the dim light and consider the closest exterior walls.

Living Room Expansion

The living room is often the central hub of the home, making it an ideal spot for larger windows or even sliding glass doors. This installation can create the illusion of an expanded space and allow for an abundance of natural light, ideal for gatherings or solitary relaxation.

If your living room has an exterior wall, consider what’s on the other side of that wall and whether the direction of the light pouring in will benefit that room and potentially adjacent rooms.

Brighten Your Culinary Space

Installing windows in your kitchen can transform this functional space into a lively area filled with sunlight. Consider placing windows above the sink or nearby to enjoy views of your garden or backyard while cooking. If your home is towards the interior of your home, consider if a skylight is an option.

Bedroom: A Tranquil Retreat

A well-placed window in the bedroom invites morning light, aiding in a brighter wake-up routine. If you’re not a fan of early mornings, consider whether you can add a window for additional light that won’t face the sunrise directly. Similarly to the living room, bedrooms are an excellent place to consider expanding with an outdoor element, such as a sliding glass door out to a balcony or private patio.

Additionally, using windows with soundproofing technology can ensure a peaceful sleeping environment while still allowing for beautiful views to wake up to.

Lighting Up Trouble Areas

Some of the most common dark areas of homes are tight corners, hallways, closets, and bathrooms. These spaces tend to be tighter, further inside the home, and less likely to have exterior walls. They’re also the places where homeowners would most appreciate more light for safety and convenience.

At the same time, installing a window in these places poses a further challenge due to privacy concerns. A small window can provide both light and ventilation in your bathroom, but you can choose a type of glass that allows in light while blurring the view. You can also choose to install it closer to the ceiling or as a skylight.

For hallways, consider installing transom windows or sidelights at the ends to brighten these transitional spaces, creating a more inviting home atmosphere. If there is a door to the outside, you can choose to allow light through the door with glazing, a glass window pane in the door, or install a storm door.

Related Article: How Big Can My Windows Be?

Brighten Your Home With New Windows

Choosing the right places to install windows in your home can enhance lighting and provide beautiful views. By strategically placing windows in living areas, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and even hallways, you can create spaces filled with warmth and light without losing privacy.

Contact Advance Inc. for an in-home consultation to map out the perfect plan for a boost of natural light.