Windows play an important part in providing ventilation and connecting indoor spaces to the outside. However, many people overlook the key parts that make a window work well and last long. Figuring out parts of a window can help when maintaining or replacing windows, ensuring informed decisions.
This guide covers the main parts of a window to help you understand how they work together in a building. Let’s get started!
Contents
Window Frame
The window frame is the main structure that supports and holds the window in place. structural part of the window. It connects to the building wall and includes the sill (bottom), head (top), and jambs (sides). Window frames are made from various materials including metal, vinyl, wood, and fiberglass. Knowing its parts helps with repair and maintenance. Let’s elaborate on its primary elements in detail:
Head
The head is the top horizontal part of the window frame. It supports the window’s upper section and helps hold the wall above it, keeping it in place and firm in its correct position for the window.
Jamb
Jambs are the vertical sides of a window frame that run from the top to the bottom. They support the window sash and typically have tracks for moveable as well as weatherstripping for better insulation.
Weep Holes
Weep holes are small holes found at the outer bottom of certain window frames. They are drains where water that has entered into the frame or between the panes is removed. This protects against water damage and effective moisture control.
Apron
The apron is a decorative element that is found below the windowsill in a home. It makes the window appear attractive and can be made to suit your interior.
Sill
Sill is the horizontal part at the bottom of a window, often used for ornaments or items. It also directs water outside to prevent moisture from entering the home.
Casing
The casing is the trim that covers the window frame inside and outside. It fills in the space between the frame and the wall, blocking drafts and moisture. The exterior casing provides another layer of protection from air and water, while the interior casing provides a finished look to the window.
Window Sash
A window sash is the part of the window that holds the glass panes within the frame. It can be fixed or moveable, depending on the window. Apart from securing the glass, the sash also provides the window with structure, function, and insulation. It appears in sliding windows, single-hung windows, and double-hung windows, and it plays an integral role during installation, repair, and maintenance. Below are elements of a window sash you ought to know:
Pane
The pane is the glass component of the window sash that lets in light and provides a view. Windows can be single, double, or triple-paned, and this is done to insulate better, conserve energy, and, as a bonus, reduce noise.
Window Rail
The window rail is the horizontal part of the sash, found at the top and bottom. Two rails are present in ordinary windows, one on the top sash and one on the bottom sash. Double-hung windows have four rails, two on each sash. The check rail is the middle rail where the sashes meet when closed. These rails support the sash and help with window use.
Spacers
Spacers are small parts placed between the panes of glass in double- and triple-pane windows. They create a consistent gap, improving insulation and reducing heat transfer. Others have desiccants to prevent condensation from building up, increasing the efficiency and longevity of the window.
Sash Lock
The sash lock keeps the window closed to prevent rattling and added security. It is widely used where the top and bottom sashes overlap in double-hung windows, and it also helps conserve energy.
Lift
A grip or handle fixed on the bottom sash of a window, typically for application on double-hung windows. It is supplied to raise and lower the sash smoothly for the operation of opening and closing the window.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is placed on the sash and window frame to seal the window when it’s closed. It helps prevent air leaks, insulates, and keeps moisture, drafts, dust and outside elements away, making the window more energy-efficient.
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Other Parts of a Window
A window is more than a frame and a piece of glass. Below are other window part names that you should be familiar with:
Mullions
Mullions are structural bars that separate and connect several window panes or units within a single frame. They provide additional strength, support, and general visual appeal to the window in the form of a grid pattern. Mullions are most utilized in multi-pane windows or where multiple windows are being used together.
Stiles
Stiles are vertical sash members of a window. They bear, hold the glass in the sash, and add to the strength and durability of the window.
Grilles
Grilles are ornamental pieces that give the impression of several pieces of glass in a window. They are in various shapes and materials, such as wood, vinyl, or metal, and may be installed on the glass surface to achieve a vintage or aged look. Grilles are functionally similar to muntins, which in the past divided multiple panes of glass for structural and aesthetic purposes
Fixed Panels
Fixed panels are non-opening parts of a window. Fixed panels are typically used in single-hung windows, picture windows, or as part of larger window configurations. Fixed panels provide structural support, let in more natural light, and increase energy efficiency as they limit air leakage.
Anatomy of Window Glass
The glass, or glazing, is part of the window sash but is distinctive in properties and characteristics that must be considered, particularly in energy efficiency.
Single, Double, and Triple-Pane Glass
Single-Pane Glass: A single piece of glass that offers little insulation, characteristic of older buildings. Storm windows are typically installed for greater energy efficiency.
Double-Pane Glass: Double-pane glass consists of two pieces with a space between them (usually air or gas-filled). This is standard on most new windows and gives the best thermal efficiency, sound deadening, and stops drafts.
Triple-Pane Glass: Three pieces of glass with two spaces of insulation, which gives very good insulation, savings in energy, and is soundproof. Best for extreme weather conditions but higher cost.
Insulating Gas
In order to improve insulation and energy efficiency, the gap between the double or triple-glazed panes is typically filled with insulating gases like argon or krypton in an attempt to improve energy efficiency. Argon is cheaper, while krypton is more insulating.
Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass has a thin, clear coating that allows natural light in but reflects heat. It cools the inside in summer heats the inside in winter, and prevents UV rays from reaching furnishings to keep them from being damaged.
Aesthetic Options
You are not just selecting the most energy-efficient glass, you are selecting among choices based on light control and privacy.
Laminated Glass
Provides higher security and noise insulation by using a combination of multiple layers of glass and a hard plastic interlayer. Ideal for impact protection and safety.
Tempered Glass
Heat-strengthened for durability, tempered glass shatters into blunt, small pieces for safety and is suitable for heavy-traffic areas and near doors.
Tinted Glass
A muted color that reduces glare, rejects heat, enhances privacy, and is suitable for sunny rooms and homes in hot climates.
Obscure Glass
Textured or frosted surface that scatters light without providing privacy. Widely used in bathrooms and front doors for a combination of light and privacy.
FAQ’s
What is the plastic molding around a window referred to as?
Plastic trim around a window is referred to as window casing or bead trim. It seals the space between the wall and the window frame, giving a clean appearance while preventing drafts.
What is a window?
A window is made up of many components, including the frame (head, jambs, and sill), sash (movable or stationary element that supports the glass), glazing (glass panels), and other components like mullions, muntins, and weatherstripping.
What are stiles in windows?
Window stiles are the vertical parts of a window sash. They bear the window and hold the glass in place. Double-hung windows have two stiles per sash, one on each side.
What are window areas?
Window areas are various parts of a window, such as the glazing area (the glass part), frame area (the outer casing), and sash area (the movable section supporting the glass). Measurement and replacement window buying is simplified by the understanding of these areas.
Conclusion
It is important to have a clear knowledge of the different parts of a window to maintain, repair, and upgrade it effectively. Every part has a crucial function in the performance and longevity of the window, enabling you to make the right choices and prolong the life of your windows.
If you’re ready to replace your windows with professional solutions, then Mannlee is where you need to be. We’re a trusted name in high-quality windows, known for our excellent service and attention to detail.
