Knowing the names of the different parts of a window and how they work will help you when it’s time to discuss your window replacement needs with a window replacement company consultant. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know in just a few minutes. Here’s our quick guide to different parts of a Renewal by Andersen® window.
The frame is the part of the window that attaches to the wall opening. Other components of the window, like the sashes, are attached to the frame. The horizontal parts of the frame have their own names: the top is called the head, while the bottom is called the sill. The vertical parts are called the jamb. The frame material is important. It should be strong enough to hold the weight of the sashes, durable enough to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, and made of insulated material to prevent heat loss. Our exclusive Fibrex® material has all these features and more.
Glazing refers to all the glass parts of the window. Traditionally, glazing was installed as a single layer of glass, but modern windows – like our own High-Performance™Low-E4® glass – feature a dual-panel assembly. The airspace between the two panels of glass minimizes contact between the interior and exterior surfaces, thus improving insulation. Glazing can have additional features like coatings that block UV and infrared rays, and it can also be filled by a non-toxic inert gas that enhances insulation.
For operable windows (those you can open and close) like double-hung windows, the sash is the part that holds the glass. In other words, this is the part of the window that can be opened and closed. Look for a window contractor that offers window sashes with safety features, like double-hung window sashes that can be tilted inward for easy cleaning. Fixed window styles like picture windows do not have sashes, as the glazing is installed directly onto the frame.
Grilles are sometimes referred to as mullions or muntins. These are the grid-like decorative pieces installed on the glazing. Individual, smaller pieces of glazing are typically set in the muntins. Renewal by Andersen® replacement windows feature grilles installed between glass panels, or on the exterior surface; the latter is removable for easy cleaning.
There will be a tiny gap between the window frame and wall opening, which is then filled with an insulating material. In our case, that material is a type of expanding foam. This area is then covered with trim for aesthetic purposes. Not only does the trim make the finished replacement windows look more attractive, it also helps protect the insulation from water intrusion.
To learn more about the features of our replacement windows, call Renewal by Andersen of Cincinnati today at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-hassle consultation. We serve Cincinnati, OH, and nearby areas.
