The appearance of many good, substantial houses, especially in the country, is positively ruined by the low, square, unsightly, small-light windows. This can be remedied at a very light expense by tearing out the frames, cutting out from the top to the desired height for modern windows, and replacing the old many-light sash with new ones holding not more than four lights. The same treatment would improve many door-ways.

Fig. 30.

The alterations that will be necessary depend largely upon the construction and surroundings, and further suggestions would be superfluous. The author, however, wishes to again caution all who would remodel houses against the too frequent result in which the same amount expended would have secured a good, comfortable, new house.

Fig. 31.

In the accompanying cuts are represented two very attractive designs of windows; one has a neat canopy top with curved roof and verge-board supported on brackets on each side and forming a fine outline; while at the bottom of the window is a small balcony projecting out from below the sill, with a railing round it, and this too resting on brackets. The whole combined makes a pleasing appearance.

The other cut, Fig. 32, has no canopy, but instead, a cap resting on brackets, while the casings on each side run down to the sill, forming a graceful outline. This also has a balcony similar to the other.

The window first described. Fig. 31, could be used with good effect in the gables of many wood houses, in the second story; the other one is better adapted to a full second story where the top must come under a cornice, as it does not extend up so far.

Fig. 32.

A great variety of forms can be given in the treatment of windows; and in fact, aside from the main outline of the structure itself, nothing has more to do with the general effect of the outside than the treatment of the windows.

Where verandas come over windows, it is sometimes desirable to have swing sash, usually know as French windows, opening out from the rooms. These are very pleasant in summer, but must be protected in winter by storm windows, as the swinging of the sash gives greater opportunity for cold to come in.

Through the winter it is often economy to protect, with a double sash, windows that are exposed to the cold winds. This sash is made all in one piece, and fits over the outside casing, with a strip of narrow felt between this and the sash, and secured with long screws, the felt effectually keeping out the wind.