A picture window is a large pane of fixed glass that does not open. With no sash to slide or crank, the frame can stay slim and the glass can be as big as the opening allows, so you get the widest possible view and plenty of natural light. Picture windows are popular in living rooms, dining areas and any room that looks out on a lake, a yard or a pool. Our family owned team at Central Window Sales has installed windows in homes across Polk County from Winter Haven since 1963.
Why choose a picture window?
Choose a picture window when the view and the light matter more than opening that spot. It gives you an uninterrupted pane of glass with no meeting rail or sash frame cutting across it.
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Bigger views: large panes frame a backyard, lake or garden like artwork on the wall.
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More daylight: extra glass area brightens a room so you can rely less on lamps during the day.
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Clean lines: slim frames suit both modern and traditional homes.
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Fewer parts: no rollers, balances or cranks means less to wear out over the years.
If the picture window you have now is fogged between the panes or drafty around the frame, our guide on whether to repair or replace your windows can help you weigh your options before your estimate.
How do I get fresh air if a picture window does not open?
Pair it with operable windows. A fixed center pane flanked by windows that open gives you a big view and airflow in the same wall.
Common combinations include a picture window with a casement on each side, a picture window with an awning below it, or a wide fixed pane between two single-hung windows. For a window that projects out from the wall with angled side units, see our bay and bow windows, and for arches, half rounds and other custom shapes above or beside a picture window, see our architectural shape windows.
Are picture windows energy efficient?
Yes. Because the glass is sealed into the frame and never opens, there are no moving sash seals to wear and let air leak through.
Low-E glass for sun-facing windows
A large pane of glass facing south or west can let in a lot of afternoon heat in a Central Florida summer. Low-E glass has a thin coating that helps reflect heat while still letting in daylight, which can keep the room more comfortable and help limit fading on floors and furniture. We recommend talking through glass options with us for any big window that gets direct afternoon sun, and we can point out which openings around your home take the most heat. Learn more in our guide to Energy Star windows in Florida, or watch our energy efficient windows videos.
Can a large picture window have impact glass?
Yes. All window styles we install, including large picture windows, are available with impact-rated glass. Impact glass is built to stay in the frame even if it cracks, which helps protect a big opening during a storm.
Large openings take more planning. The size of the glass, the frame and how it is anchored to the wall all have to meet the wind requirements for where your home sits. Our team pulls the permit and handles the inspection, so the installation is documented. Impact windows may qualify for wind mitigation credits on your homeowners policy, though savings vary by insurer. Our article on impact vs non-impact windows in Florida explains more.
How much does a picture window cost?
Larger picture windows typically fall in our range for large, custom or architectural windows, about $1,500 to $2,500 or more each, installed. Your exact price comes from a free estimate based on size, glass type and the work needed at the opening.
For comparison, a standard non-impact vinyl window runs about $450 to $900, and a whole-home project of 10 to 20 windows usually runs about $8,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the mix of sizes and styles. Financing is available. Price is shaped by:
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Overall size of the opening and the glass.
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Impact-rated or non-impact glass.
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Low-E coatings or other glass upgrades.
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Any combination with operable side or lower windows.
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Repairs to the wall or framing found once the old window is removed.
Who installs picture windows in Polk County?
We do. Central Window Sales manages your picture window project from measuring to the final inspection.
We are a family owned, faith based company, licensed and insured (CBC1257644) and Google Guaranteed, with our home office and showroom at 2001 Havendale Blvd. NW in Winter Haven. We install windows from PGT, ProVia, Norandex, Simonton and Andersen, and our window replacements include a Lifetime Glass Break Warranty. Explore our window replacement service, compare every style on our replacement windows page, or see the towns we serve across Polk County.
Ready to open up your view? Call us at (863) 293-2977 , request a free picture window estimate, or schedule your estimate online. Estimates are free, with no obligation, and can be done with minimal to no in-person contact.
Watch: Picture Window Before and After
Picture windows come in a wide range of sizes, and many are made to fit a specific opening. We measure your opening and go over size options during your free estimate.
Because a picture window does not open, the outside glass is cleaned from outdoors. On a second story, a long handled squeegee or a professional window cleaner may be the easiest route.
In many cases, yes. We can often fit a new picture window into the existing opening. If we find damaged framing once the old window is out, we will talk with you before any extra work.
Grids are an option on many picture windows if you want a more traditional look. Many homeowners leave them off to keep the view clear.
Yes, financing is available. Call (863) 293-2977 or request a free estimate and we will go over your options.
