Get Real with Doug Robinson: Let’s talk about Panes, not Pains

Let’s talk about Panes, not Pains

If anyone is paying any attention to the Real Estate market in Saline County they are aware of the lack of inventory of homes. This is leading some people to seek out older homes to renovate. One of the first things people do when renovating is to replace the windows to something that looks better, works better and is much more energy efficient.

Being familiar with the different types of windows while picking out new windows or admiring previously installed ones is one thing, but what about the parts of a window? One aspect of appreciating what makes a window so great is knowing how all the different parts work together, but if you can’t tell the sash from the apron, you’ll have a hard time articulating what, exactly, you like about the window.

Window anatomy matters—and I have a breakdown of the major parts of a window.

Parts of a window

Apron: A horizontal piece of trim underneath the sill.

Glass: Also called lite (industry terminology for the piece of glass used to create the window) or glazing. Four main kinds are available:

*Window glass types

*Dual Pane

Two panes are separated by metal spacers at the edges and air in the center, providing energy-efficiency and noise reduction.

*Low-E (Low Emissivity)

A thin, transparent metal or metallic oxide coating reflects infra-red radiation, keeping a house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

*Hurricane-Resistant

A reinforced glass that features two panes surrounding a tough fiberglass core. Decorative styles include frosted, textured, stained glass, and more.

*Decorative

Styles include frosted, textured, stained glass, and more.

Grille: Also called grid or muntin. Decorative cross pieces that divide the window into panes. Some grilles are suspended between the glass; others snap off for easy cleaning. Grilles for double-hung windows are named according to the number of squares they form

Head: The horizontal piece that forms the top of the window frame.

Jamb: The pieces that form the top, sides, and bottom of the window frame (includes the head).

Lock: Most new windows come with locks, and there are upgrades, such as magnetic locks, that allow windows to lock automatically when closed.

Rail: The horizontal part of a sash.

Sash: The movable part of the window; the framework that holds the glass in place.

Sill: A piece that runs along the base of the window frame. Not to be confused with Seal!

Stile: The vertical part of a sash.

Types of Windows-

When you are looking for new home windows, there are tons of replacement options to fit any home style or budget. Each window type serves a different purpose and there are many different windows to choose from. Here is a list of the top replacement window types and the different benefits of each:

1. Single Hung Windows

The major difference between a single hung window and a double hung window is how the different types of window sections move. With single hung windows, the bottom window panel or lower sash moves up and down, and the upper sash remains stationary. This means that when you open the window, the upper sash is covered on the inside.

2. Double Hung Windows

A double-hung window is similar to a single hung window however both the lower sash as well as the upper sash can move up and down and usually tilt out for easy cleaning and maintenance in this common window type. Double hung windows are one of the most common replacement windows that homeowners install.

3. Awning Windows

Awning windows are ideal for climates with a lot of rain, thanks to the way the window creates a water-resistant awning when opened.

4. Casement Windows

Casement windows swing out to the side or up to open. This allows the window to be constructed of solid glass and offers a less obstructed view overall. A casement window usually comes with one casement window pane on the left and one on the right as seen in the photo below.

5. Picture Windows

Whether the view outside your home is a lush green backyard or a mountain range, the best way to fully enjoy your view is with beautiful large picture windows. Picture windows are fixed windows that cannot be opened.

Some window replacement costs can be negotiated with bigger projects or discounted with specials being run in your area by window installers. If you are unsure about the specific window types you want to install, it may be more beneficial to speak directly to local contractors and get a few estimates.

Thinking about buying or selling a home? I can help make the process easy, get in touch today!

Click to see more articles from Get Real with Doug Robinson