If you are planning to buy a new window or the old window requires repair, it good to brush up your knowledge on the window parts names and their anatomy for better understanding and clarity. It consists of several parts, and knowing about them helps you communicate clearly with contractors or shop owners during repair or replacement.
Windows are an essential part of the building that connects indoor space to the outside world and ensures ventilation. In this article, we’ll learn about different pieces of windows that make a functional window unit.
Different Window Parts Names
Also Read: Step-By-Step Guide to Cover the Wall With Curtain Instead of Paint
Window Frame
The frame is the exterior component of a window that provides structural support to the entire window system. The frame is available in various materials such as glass, aluminum, fiberglass, wood, or vinyl, and different sizes. There are parts of the frame such as a sill, jamb, head, apron, jamb liner, and weep holes.
Jamb - There are two jamb components of the window frame; the head jamb and the side jamb.The head jamb is the upper component, and the side jamb is the vertical component of the frame. Jambs provide support to the assembled window.
Head - The head is the horizontal part of the frame attached at the top of the frame that helps balance the weight of the window.
Sill - Sill is the lower part of the frame fixed horizontally. The exterior part of the outside edge of the window sill is narrowed down to shed water.
Jamb Liner - This covers the gap between the window frame and finished walls. It provides fit for the window sash.
Apron - The apron is fixed at the bottom of the window sill primarily for decorative purposes.
Weep Holes - These holes are made in vinyl or metal window frames at the bottom to allow precipitation collected in the window tracks.
Operating Arm - It is a mechanism that holds the sash in the position when it is open. It is attached to both the window frames.
Operating Handle - The operating handle is used to open and close sash. The mechanism is quite simple; turning the crank in one direction opens the sash and turning it in the other direction closes the sash.
Locking Handle - A locking handle is a lever-operated lock that pulls both sashes tightly together for better security and energy efficiency.
Window Sash
The sash is the moveable part of the window that holds the pane of window glass in place. There are two sashes in the window(upper and lower). Single-hung windows have a movable lower sash, and double-hung windows have both sashes that are movable. Window sash has several components such as pane, weatherstripping, window rail, sash lock, spacers, and lift.
Pane - Pane is the piece/pieces of glass in the window
Weatherstripping - This is the meeting point of window frame and sash that provides an additional layer of energy efficiency and protection from the elements.
Window rail - Rails are the horizontal part of the sash. Single-hung windows have two rails, and double-hung windows have four rails.
Sash lock - This is a technique to prevent rattling and to ensure window safety.
Spacers - The primary reason to install spacers between the glass pane is to ensure insulation of the window
Lift - Lift is attached for lifting and lowering the sash.
Other Parts of the Window
Glass/Glazing
Glass is a transparent component of the window that ensures entry of light into the house and provides insulation. Modern windows have two or three layers of glass for better insulation. Argon is injected between the layers of glasses for enhanced insulation which is invisible.You can use tints or laminations for more privacy or add to the strength.
Mullion
Mullion divides the window units within the single frame into vertical or horizontal styles, provides structural support, and adds aesthetic appeal to the house.
Sash Lift
A sash lift is a handle fixed to the sash for easy opening and closing of the window.
Sash Tilt Pin/Cam Pivot
This helps tilt the sashes on windows for easy cleaning.
Balances
Balances have multiple functions in Windows. It balances the sashes, helps in the easy opening of sashes, and avoids slamming shut. It is located inside the side jambs on either side of the window.
Grids
Grids are used as a decorative element to enhance the visual appeal and extend the look of the traditional window designs. Another reason for using a grid is to divide the glass window into smaller sections.
Window Casing
The purpose of window casing is to surround the window frame for a finished look and also to cover the gap between the window frame and walls.
Window Trim
The primary reason for fixing window trim is to elevate the aesthetic quotient.
Window Hardware
Window hardware has a functional angle. Hardware such as hinges, handles, operators, and locks facilitate the functionality of the window.
Conclusion
Knowing the parts of the window ensures smooth communication with professionals when repairing, replacing, or upgrading windows. You will end up making an informed decision whether you interact with contractors or an architect.
