Wise Window Tips for Tiny Homes Under 500-Square Feet

Getting ready to join the tiny-living movement? There are many important components to consider during construction and outfitting your tiny house, including windows. Do you know the best windows for tiny-homes under 500-square feet?

Choose Function First

Always choose function over form. That is, decide what purpose you need the window to perform, and then check out your options. For example, windows that do not open are always cheapest and might work on your exterior wall, however functioning windows are a little more expensive but they provide ventilation in small spaces, like your bathroom.

Plan Placement

Don’t add windows without carefully considering things like cooling of your home. Take advantage of cross-breezes and position windows away from each other so that you can pull cool air in, without costing any energy. It is recommended that tiny-homeowners plan at least one functioning window on each exterior wall to catch whatever wind or breeze comes through the area.

Watch Your Temper

Do you plan on moving or traveling with your tiny-home? If so, make sure to only buy windows with tempered glass to prevent breakage later. Tempered glass can withstand the bumps and vibrations that come from moving your home. For added peace of mind, invest in protective plywood shutters all around.

Know Where to Splurge

While using reclaimed materials is part of reducing your carbon footprint, do so cautiously. Reclaimed windows may seem like a prudent investment, but experts recommend buying only new windows for your house — whether you intend to travel with it or not.

Buying used, damaged, or old windows could compromise the insulative properties of your home, allowing moisture in and wasting energy. In addition, if you plan on traveling with your tiny home, then you want windows with integrity to ensure wind, weather, or highway debris doesn’t result in catastrophe on the road.

Stay Dry

Buy moisture-resistant windows, especially in homes under 500-square feet. Moisture wreaks havoc in a tiny house, particularly a well-insulated, energy-efficient one. Avoid this problem by buying windows that are resistant to moisture, humidity, and the condensation that can accumulate between panes. For many, the answer is fiberglass windows.

Two Is Better Than One

Always choose double-pane over single-pane in your tiny home for insulation value, though extreme climates may merit triple-pane. Single pane windows are vulnerable to damage, cracks, and breakage. Double and triple-pane windows are an investment that will pay off over the short term and the long term, in energy costs and damage expense.

Heading Up

Is your tiny house going to be on the go? If you do plan on traveling, make sure to use high-altitude windows to prevent any unwelcome surprises in mountainous terrain and elevated areas. High-elevation can break your glass due to the difference in air-pressure. You may also notice condensation between panes in higher-elevations which will eventually warrant replacement.

Keep It Simple

Though it may be tempting to use uniquely shaped windows or stained glass, this could lead to problems. First, special sizes and shapes of windows will require custom work that costs more. In addition, the stained glass could become broken or damaged for homes that are moved or mobile.

Keep your windows simple and standard, whenever possible. You can use vinyl clings or film to create the illusion of stained glass, instead.

You have an endless range of options when it comes to types of windows available. Do yourself a favor and pay heed to these tips to ensure you are buying the best windows possible for your tiny-home.

Take time to think about your tiny home’s windows, as you design and configure your house plans. Visit window professionals to find the best options for your tiny home, and keep these tips in mind when assessing your options.