Are Floor-to-Ceiling Windows Right for Your Home?

While it’s not as extensive as renovating your kitchen or bedroom, changing your windows from standard sizes to floor-to-ceiling windows can make or break your home’s aesthetic. That said, there are many benefits to making the switch. 

To start, you’ll enjoy more natural light in your living spaces and have a more relaxed and elegant ambiance in the rooms where your windows are installed.

However, there are limitations to these window types. In this article, we’ll discuss all you need to know about floor-to-ceiling windows to help you decide whether these are right for your home.

Let’s dive in!

When You Should Install Floor-To-Ceiling Windows

Just like any window, these expansive “window walls” satisfy specific needs and fit certain styles. Here are some instances when getting these windows is ideal. This can help you weigh the pros and cons of installing floor-to-ceiling windows when replacing your windows.

So, when does it make sense to get window walls?

If You Want More Natural Light

Of course, with bigger windows comes more natural light. It floods your space with sunlight, creating an unparalleled ambiance you wouldn’t get from smaller windows.

Since it has less solid obstruction, you get:

• Better views of the outside environment.
• Improved moods with increased vitamin D intake.
• Low utility bills by using less artificial light.
• More efficient energy consumption by stabilizing the room’s temperature.

Plus, it’s more soothing to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during winter in front of huge glass panels giving you a panoramic view. 

If You Want More Space

Installing window walls can make any room look more open, relaxed, and spacious. Even just placing a floor-to-ceiling window in the corner of a room can expand that space. 

Plus, they draw guests’ eyes upward, adding to your room’s vertical height and making it appear much taller than it is.

If You Want Better Views

Floor-to-ceiling windows can help you connect better with nature by providing uninterrupted views of the outdoors. They can span the entire wall and frame the outdoors like a work of art. Of course, your view will still depend on where you place your window wall, so consider this for your next home update.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Moreover, consider the room where you want to install the window wall. This is because choosing the room adds to the ambiance of that space. For instance, living rooms must always look lively since it’s where you typically entertain guests. 

Having floor-to-ceiling windows here will make this space shine while providing ample views of the outdoors. Other popular locations for these windows are the bedroom and dining area where you can pair them with sliding glass doors.

If You Want Better Energy Efficiency

Fixed glass walls don’t have any moving parts that can allow drafts. That means improved energy efficiency for your home. Aside from that, you won’t have to rely on artificial lighting as much and just rely on natural light for most of the day, cutting your energy costs.

Floor-to-ceiling windows made of double-pane or triple-pane glass also promise better insulation. They can help stabilize your room’s indoor temperature, and provide extra durability for better security and reduced noise pollution. You’ll get a high-performing window that won’t compromise style. 

When You Shouldn’t Install Floor-To-Ceiling Windows

While installing large glass windows brings a lot of benefits to your home life, it’s also crucial to consider their disadvantages. These are not great for you if: 

You Need More Privacy

A major drawback of floor-to-ceiling windows is that they are too “open.” While you see unobstructed views of the outdoors, people outside can also see inside your home. Additionally, covering up your windows with curtains or blinds defeats the purpose of installing a glass wall in the first place.

A good solution to this is buying window film. Not only can this enhance your privacy, but also prevent threats such as burglary and theft because of the added security. 

Image source: Canva

You Don’t Want to Clean Regularly

Large windows need to be spotless at all times, so you can enjoy their expansive views—which is bad news if constant glass cleaning isn’t your cup of tea. Moreover, you’ll need to spend more time maintaining this window type because of its large glass expanse.

That said, cleaning large glass surfaces is actually relatively easy—provided you have the right tools and equipment.

How Much Do Floor-To-Ceiling Windows Cost?

The floor-to-ceiling windows cost between $1,600 to $5,000, although finding an exact number may be difficult. This range only accounts for the glass, frames, and treatments, and installation is not included. With these installations, more often than not, structural engineers and architects need to be involved, which can significantly drive up the cost. 

Image source: Canva

Get High-Quality Windows and Doors at Burano

Your windows are just as important as other aspects of your home. So, if you’re thinking of switching to floor-to-ceiling windows, make sure you’re investing in the right pieces. Here’s where can can help!

Burano Doors has been Ontario’s trusted high-quality windows and doors provider for over 40 years.

Our windows are ENERGY STAR-certified and NFRC-certified, meaning they are highly energy efficient and high-performing. Made with lead-free, 100% uPVC material, our fixed windows let you enjoy exceptional views without compromising energy efficiency.

Choose from our wide variety of styles, colours and other custom options for your home’s floor-to-ceiling windows—all offered at factory-direct prices. 

Need more help? Reach out to us today and let us help you with a free home estimate!