Gliding Windows

A sliding window can be called a “gliding window” or a “sliding window.” They are the same thing.

Gliding window sizes will vary depending on the design and series you choose. Our largest gliding window is 12-feet wide and 6-feet high (100 Series), and custom sizing is also available. If you are looking for a huge gliding window, consider sliding glass walls like our Liftslide Door, MultiGlide™ Door, or Pass-Through Windows.

Gliding window hardware can be either traditional or contemporary.

Gliding windows come in several different styles. On some gliding windows, only a single side moves, while the other side stays fixed. Others can be configured so both sides move independently, allowing you to create airflow on both sides simultaneously. And you can even get gliding windows with three-sash configurations, like those in our E-Series product line.

Not necessarily. Our gliding windows are similar in efficiency to our double-hung windows, but less efficient than our casement windows. However, like most windows, their energy efficiency can vary depending on the design and type of glass you choose. Our A-Series Gliding Window is our best-performing gliding window.

You should consider gliding windows for patios, porches, walkways, or decks because they stay flush against the wall and do not open inward or outward. You might also consider them in indoor/outdoor spaces to pass food and drinks through, like a modest version of our Pass-Through Window.

Gliding windows are some of the best windows for patios, porches, walkways, or decks because they stay flush against the wall and do not open inward or outward. Since they have a horizontal orientation, they are also a perfect fit in single-story homes with lower ceilings, or any spaces with a wider orientation.

Gliding windows can be made of several different materials, each with their own benefits. Nearly all of our gliding windows have a wood core for improved durability and insulation that is covered (clad) in another material for protection against the elements. Aluminum-clad gliding windows (found in our E-Series product line) are extremely durable, virtually maintenance-free, and can have nearly limitless customizations. Vinyl-clad gliding windows (found in our 400 Series product line) are low-maintenance and generally cost less. Our 100 Series Gliding Windows are made without a wood core and instead use our proprietary Fibrex® material inside and out. Fibrex material is a special blend of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer, which is twice as strong as vinyl, will not fade, flake, blister, or peel,* and helps dark colors stay dark.

You can put insect screens on gliding windows. We recommend using TruScene® insect screens which let in over 25% more fresh air and provide 50% greater clarity than conventional Andersen® insect screens, all while still keeping the bugs out.

Sliding windows can be very safe if proper safety measures are taken. Since they stay flush against a wall, they do not carry the same clipping risks as windows that open inward or outward. You can also use Andersen® gliding window opening control device kits which are designed to prevent accidental falls by children aged five (5) years and younger while also allowing the full opening of a window as needed for escape, rescue, or ventilation. With proper location and installation, window opening control devices allow for a less than 4" (inch) opening.

If you are looking for a window that glides vertically, look for a single-hung or double-hung window.