The ABCs of Doors & Windows: Getting to Know Your Windows and All Their Parts

This is part one of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows.

When choosing new windows, you’re likely to find there are a lot of terms that may be unfamiliar to you. The following are some of the most common window terms and definitions to help you gain a clearer view when shopping for replacement windows!

Casement Window – Assembled as a complete operating unit, casement windows feature a combination of window frame, sash, weather-strip, and concealed hinges. Operating casements are hinged on one side, or at the top or bottom. They typically have a crank handle for smooth opening and closing.

Double Hung Window – These windows have two movable sashes, which allow them to slide open vertically. Coil spring blocks and tackle balancing devices keep them up when in the open position.

Single Hung Window – This window looks like a double hung window, but the upper sash is fixed. Only the bottom sash moves up and down.

Frame – This is the stationary part of the window that encloses the glass or sash, made up of the following parts:

• Head Jamb – The horizontal component along the top of the frame.
• Sill – The horizontal component along the bottom of the fame.
• Side Jamb – The vertical components along the sides of the frame.
• Jamb Liner – The covering over the space between the window frame and the finished interior wall.
• Jamb Extension – An addition to a standard jamb to adapt the window unit to a deeper wall thickness.

Sash – The operating and/or stationary portion of the window that’s separate from the frame unit is called the sash. It includes the following parts:

• Stiles – The vertical component along the sides of the sash.
• Rails – The horizontal components along the top and bottom of the sash.
• Check Rails – The horizontal components that meet in the middle of a double hung and single hung window.
• Muntin Bars – The divisional components that extend from rail to rail or stile to stile to create the look of smaller individual panes, usually used when historical accuracy is important.

Sash Lock – This locking device holds a window shut, with larger units utilizing two locks.

As always, if you have any questions about windows, doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US today. In our next blog we will tackle the different parts of a door so stay tuned! To view more videos about windows and their various parts, click HERE.