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Our homes are our castles, and windows are the most crucial aspect when it comes to providing security and protection from external elements. They also help contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment and can significantly impact the look, aesthetic and vibe of your home. Having a good understanding of the parts of your window allows you to keep your windows in good condition and choose the perfect option for your home.
To help you learn more, we dived into the world of windows and the parts that make up the whole.
Our aim? To equip you with the ultimate guide to ensure you know your windows and the tricks you can use to help them last longer. Read on for all you need to know!
What are the parts of a window? The main elements include:
Hardware is a vital aspect of any window and refers to all the pieces that are essential for operating and securing a window, such as the locks, handles and hinges – these are all crucial for making the window function properly.
Make sure that all the hardware on your windows is of the highest quality – you need to make sure that they stay closed, move smoothly, and can be secured if required, and it can be worth investing a little more money to make sure that they are as good as they can be.
As you would expect, the frame is one of the most important aspects of a window – the structure that holds the entire window together and is the section connected to the wall.
The frame consists of three main sections:
Frames can be made from several materials and come in various types, shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular materials for window frames include:
A popular choice, wooden windows offer a classic look and can be perfect if you want a more traditional feel. However, they typically require more maintenance and care than other types of window frames, as they can be prone to rotting and warping over time.
It is essential to take good care of wooden window frames; this can include treating them with specialist wood care products and weather sealant and cleaning them regularly with warm water, soap and a soft cloth.
Vinyl windows are another popular frame choice, requiring far less maintenance than wooden frames. They are also more energy efficient and highly durable, making them perfect for a longer-term option.
Though a less popular option, aluminum is nonetheless still a popular option and is solid and durable. Like vinyl, these windows also require minimal maintenance and tend to be an energy-efficient option.
Composite is another material growing in popularity and, as the name suggests, contains a combination of materials. These typically do not contain PVC and offer excellent insulation and energy efficiency – a reduction in energy costs will soon offset the cost of the windows.
The second key element of the window is the sash – the part of the window that moves up and down, allowing you to open and close the window. There are two main parts of a sash:
A double-hung window – we will look at this type of window later – may include a check rail. This refers to a point where the bottom rail of the top sash and the top rail of the bottom sash meet in the middle, and this is where the lock will be.
Double-hung windows may also have a “lift” along the bottom rail, meaning you can grip the window to open it.
While these are the main elements of a window, there are a few other parts which you may encounter, and these include:
A mullion is a structural element designed to hold multiple windows together in a single unit – this may be sound in bow windows or bay windows.
Some windows may have weep holes – small holes found outside the windowsill that allow rainwater to move away from the frame. This can be particularly useful for wooden windows, which may rot if exposed to excess moisture.
The glazing is the clear part of your windows – the part you see through – and can be made from glass or plastic. Not only does this provide light into your home, but it also offers protection from the elements and insulation.
It is vital to ensure that you invest in adequate glazing for your windows – poor, cheap or inadequate glazing will result in poor insulation, a cold, damp home, and higher energy bills.
As we have seen, windows come in a wide range of types, and different windows may have their own extra parts. Some of the main types of windows include:
Casement windows are attached to the frame with hinges on one side and are one of the most popular types of windows.
Awning windows are very similar to casement windows, but they swing open vertically rather than horizontally, creating an “awning” that gives the window its namesake. These are popular in climates with a lot of rain, as the “awning” provides some protection from the elements.
Single-hung windows contain two parts: the lower part slides up and down to provide ventilation, and the top remains fixed.
As the name suggests, a double-hung window has two sashes which open, offering twice as much ventilation. These are a little pricey but are great if you want to let more air into the room.
Your windows are a crucial element of your home, and it is essential to ensure that they are correctly installed and maintained, and a good knowledge of the main parts can help with this. At Euroseal Windows, we pride ourselves on providing quality services and features to ensure your home is safe, secure and stylish, which makes us a trusted window company in Concord and the GTA.
Contact us today and see how we can help you upgrade your windows and transform your home.
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