While it is true that there are several types of windows according to design, and how they operate, all of them fall under one of two categories if classified according to their frames: single, or multi-paned. While single paned windows are fairly straightforward, multi-paned windows are an entirely different thing.
Scarcity to Diversity
Although multi-pane windows have been around much earlier, they started getting really popular during the late 19th and early 20th century, when there was a shortage of large glass panes. Instead of limiting window options available to the common crowd, this glass shortage actually led to more diversity in terms of window design. Today, you can see multi-paned windows as often as their single-paned counterparts.
Columns and Rows
The panes of a multi-pane window can be arranged in different patterns, and they can also vary in terms of size. A variant that most people are familiar with features two columns of three panes, or a 2×3 format. Larger multi-pane windows can have more than nine panes, while smaller ones can have as few as two. Multi-pane windows featuring panes of different sizes are not uncommon, and are actually becoming popular because of contemporary home design trends.
Dividing the light
Multi-pane windows also differ in terms of the glass used and the frame material. Multi-paned windows often use a single sheet of glass for each individual pane, held in place by glazing brass or muntins. However, there are also multi-pane windows that use a single large sheet of glass for the entire frame, but divided by thin strips of metal or wood to give it the multi-paned look
Not just squares and casements
Multi-pane windows are not restricted to four-sided panes. Occasionally, there are windows that have triangular panes, or even circular ones. In fact, some multi-pane windows combine panes of different shapes, creating attractive patterns to fit a home’s overall visual style. Although the term “multi-paned” often refers to fixed windows, there are also multi-paned casement windows just as there are multi-paned awning or sash windows.
Multi-paned windows have a few key advantages over single-paned windows, to find out more about them check out Part 2 of this three part blog series, coming soon!
