Hurry, don't miss savings on selected furniture & more.* Shop all offers
2 Products
Fixed Windows: Your essential buying guide
A fixed window is a non-opening window designed to let in light and provide a view while remaining sealed shut. It is different from side-hung, top-hung, tilt or sliding windows because it does not provide ventilation or access.
Fixed windows suit areas where you want extra daylight without needing the window to open, such as stairwells, landings, gable ends, extensions, internal courtyards and high-level wall spaces. They can also work alongside opening windows in the same room.
Measure the structural opening carefully and check whether the listed size refers to the frame size, overall unit size or the required opening size. Allow for installation tolerances, trims and any sill or reveal details specified for your project.
That depends on the room, the wider ventilation plan and current building requirements. Because a fixed window does not open, you may need ventilation from another window, mechanical ventilation or suitable vents elsewhere in the space.
Look at the frame material, colour, glazing type, glass thickness, thermal performance information, safety glass requirements and whether the unit is suitable for the wall, room and height where it will be installed.
Fixed windows can be a practical way to add daylight, frame a view or complete a glazing layout without adding an opening mechanism. When comparing options on ShopSmarty, focus on fit, glazing, frame finish and how the window will work with the rest of the room.
A fixed window is best used where ventilation is not the main purpose. It can bring light into darker areas, create a feature panel or sit beside an opening window as part of a wider glazing arrangement.
Check that the room still has suitable airflow from another source. If the window is for a bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or living area, consider how fresh air and moisture control will be handled.
Compare listed dimensions carefully, as window sizing can be shown in different ways. The key details are the overall frame size, the required opening size and any allowance needed for packers, trims or sealant.
For replacement projects, measure the existing opening in more than one place and check whether the surrounding wall, sill and reveal need repair or adjustment before fitting.
Frame choice affects appearance, maintenance and compatibility with other windows in the property. Common considerations include colour, internal and external finish, frame depth and whether the look matches nearby glazing.
If the fixed window will sit next to opening windows, try to match frame profiles and sightlines as closely as possible for a more consistent finish.
Glazing details are especially important on a fixed window because the glass is the main feature. Compare double or triple glazing options, thermal performance information, solar control needs and acoustic considerations where listed.
Safety glass may be required depending on the window’s height, location and surrounding use. Always check the product specification against the intended installation area.
A fixed window can be one part of a larger window scheme. You may want to compare other window types if the same room also needs ventilation, emergency access or a matching opening unit.
For wider home improvement planning, keep related DIY items such as fixings, sealants, trims and finishing materials in mind so the installation can be completed neatly.
Use our barcode scanner to match products instantly to find the best prices, find products with ease using our voice search and build wish lists and your favourites at the click of a button.
