Pass-through windows
Dreamy pass-through windows are all about enabling an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. With a range of opening styles and special features — like automation and pocketing — and an array of color and finish options, customization is built in. Find out all the details, including answers to your most pressing questions.
Explore your pass-through window options
Why choose a pass-through window?
To make entertaining easy
With their clear openings, they allow you to access indoor amenities while serving guests outdoors.
To unite indoors and outdoors
With their large sizes, they let in light and air in a way that blurs the line between indoors and out.
To fit where a door won't
With a range of sizes available, they work well where you want outdoor access but don’t have room for a door.
Inspiring pass-through windows
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Pass-through window FAQs answered
What are pass-through windows?
Pass-through windows, sometimes called servery windows, open up completely so there’s nothing between you and the backyard. They allow in lots of fresh air and sunlight, of course, but they also make entertaining easy. They’re a popular addition to a kitchen that’s adjacent to an outdoor living space. They’re often perched above cabinetry, wine refrigerators, kitchen sinks, and other amenities, so you can host without missing out on the party!
Our pass-through windows can fold, stack, or pocket into the wall — depending on the option chosen. Dive into the details about pass-through windows.
How do pass-through windows work?
We offer a few different pass-through windows, each of which operate differently. Here’s what you should know:
- Folding Pass-Through Windows are made of panels that accordion together along a single track and stack to the side when open. Their folding design means they’re virtually out of sight when open. They’re also available in corner configurations.
- MultiGlide Pass-Through Windows are made of panels that slide along individual tracks to open (like a sliding glass door) and stack to one side or pocket into the wall for a clear opening. Automation is available, so you can open this window with the touch of a button whether you choose a stacked or pocketing configuration.
- Liftslide Pass-Through Windows are made of panels that can be easily operated by hardware that lifts them and slides them along a single, flush track. This is the option for nearly unlimited possibilities, including pocketing and automation as well as curved designs and corner configurations.
Can pass-through windows be used in all climates?
Yes! Anywhere that summer happens, these windows will work. Thermally broken panels, triple-pane glass, and performance sills are features that can help pass-through windows perform well in climates that also experience winter. Sills that meet various PG ratings are also available.
To understand more about how to make selections that will allow your pass-through window to perform well in your climate — including the best glass type (dual- or triple-pane), low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, and sill — work with your builder or dealer. You can also get started understanding available selections in our Big Door Product Guide.
Where are pass-through windows commonly used?
These windows make entertaining easy, so you’ll most often see them in between a kitchen and outdoor living space. There, they’re ideally positioned to prepare food and drinks while still being in on the action that’s happening outside.
Similarly, these windows are popular additions to kitchenettes and wet bars, pool houses, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and other indoor spaces designed to connect with outdoor living spaces.
What are the advantages of pass-through windows?
A pass-through window enables a certain lifestyle. It’s that easy, breezy, everyday-is-summer feel that we associate with “California living,” but it’s attainable everywhere. Here are a few more advantages to consider:
- Easy entertaining: Access the amenities inside while being a part of the party happening outside — pass out the drinks without missing a single joke.
- Clear views: Enjoy your garden, pool, or whatever your backyard landscape features without any frames or sashes getting in the way.
- Fresh air: Let the breeze in without any impediments thanks to the clear opening that a pass-through window allows.
When to choose a pass-through window?
Here are a few specific instances when a pass-through window really makes sense.
- When there's no room for a door, but you still want a breezy connection between indoors and out.
- When you'd rather keep outdoor foot traffic outside — kids dripping wet from the pool, for example.
- When there’s an opportunity to connect indoor and outdoor kitchens and maximize the utility of both.
- When you want to create an outdoor bar.
How big are pass-through windows?
Pass-through windows can be very large. They can also be fairly small. There’s a lot of sizing flexibility among these products, which are actually smaller versions of our Folding Outswing, MultiGlide, and Liftslide Doors.
If you’re looking for the largest possible option, start with our Liftslide Pass-Through Window which can be 60 feet wide and 16 feet tall.
Find more details about these products in our Big Door Product Guide.
How much does a pass-through window cost?
Although the price will vary depending on the exact details of sizing, selections, and more, pass-through windows are premium products with a price to match. Their installation is also complex and involves detailed dimensional drawings and typically a consultation with one of our big door experts.
For all these reasons, the best way to understand pricing is to request a quote.
The sooner you begin planning for this type of window, the better.
What are pass-through windows made from?
Our materials vary by product type, so no matter the material you seek, we likely have a window that will work for your project.
- Folding Outswing Pass-Through Windows are wood with a protective coating of aluminum on the exterior.
- MultiGlide Pass-Through Windows are wood with a protective coating of aluminum on the exterior.
- Liftslide Pass-Through Windows are available in a few different material constructions: all wood, all aluminum, or wood with a protective exterior coating of aluminum on the exterior.
Find more details about these products in our Big Door Product Guide.