View from the Windows: Learn the Lingo

Awning Window

A horizontally-shaped casement window that is hinged on top.  The panel (sash) swings outward.  When opened, the shape resembles an awning, hence its name.  Traditional awning windows are often found on older buildings and can lend charm and character.

Bay Window

A series of 3 or more window panels that project out of the main floor space into a separate “bay”.  They are installed at angles and form a polygon shape protruding from the wall area.

“Oriel” is a type of bay window found in Tudor-style homes, but instead of extending to the ground, the windows are supported by corbels or brackets.

Bow Window

A bay window with a twist:  instead of the windows set at angles, they are curved.  Typically consists of a series of 4 or more windows arranged in an arch pattern.  More expensive architecture than bay windows, often hand-crafted by local artisans.

Casement Window

The panel (sash) opens by turning a crank on the hinged side, and the sash swings either in or out.  Although a casement window may be top-hung or bottom-hung, it is most often installed as side-hung.

Clerestory Window

Roof-level windows that allow light into the room.  These windows, placed above eye level, provide privacy and daylight while reducing the need for electric powered lights.  Although a recent trend towards and green energy has fueled the demand for passive solar light, Clerestory windows originated from traditional European churches.

Also known as clearstorey, clearstory, or overstorey.

Dormer Window

Set into the sides of a roof, a dormer window provides light and sometimes ventilation for attics and top floors in a multi-level home.  They also provide additional headroom and a more open floor plan for upper stories.

Double-Hung Window

A window with 2 sashes placed vertically, and each sash is able to be opened.  The most typical style is a glider window; both upper and lower panes slide up and down.  An alternate style is when sashes are hinged on the bottom and open outward on the top of each sash.  Traditional homes built before 1960 will often feature double-hung windows.

Compare to Single-Hung Window

Fanlight Window

A half-circle window shaped like a fan with “spokes” radiating from the center.  Fanlight windows do not open, because they are used as decorative windows over doors or other windows.

French Window

A pair of 2 panels (sashes) hinged on the right and left sides of the window, and both panels open to the middle.  This creates a “French door” effect.  The window is latched in the middle.  May have a lattice pattern.  Sometimes a French door that overlooks a patio or terrace is referred to as a French window.

Glider / Sliding Window

Window with a gliding sash (window panel) that slides back and forth to open and close.  May slide horizontally or vertically, although horizontal sliding is more typical.  Gliders are the most common types of modern windows in new construction.

Louvre Window

A window comprised of parallel glass or acrylic horizontal slats which may open and close.  They are angled with a downward slope to deflect rain and wind, but allow indirect sunlight.  Also known as a jalousie window, louvre windows are often found in tropical homes.

Picture Window

An extra-large window that provides a broad outside view and lets in a lot of light.  Picture windows are usually non-opening (inoperable) windows.  Often single paned and typically do not contain any glazing bars which may mar the fabulous view.  They are called “picture” windows because the large window is intended to provide a wide view of the outdoors, similar to a picture frame.

Single-Hung Window

A window with 2 panels (sashes), arranged vertically to each other, wherein the top panel is fixed and the bottom panel opens.  It may open by sliding up, or at the top (if it is hinged on the bottom).  Single-hung windows were the original style of windows installed in the early 1900’s before double-hung windows were devised.

Compare to Double-Hung Window.

Stained Glass Window / Leaded

Small pieces of leaded glass separated by lead glazing bars.  Frequently seen in Victorian era homes, stained glass pieces are arranged in a pattern or architectural style.  Stained glass windows are hand-crafted and difficult to replace.  They are valued for their character and artistry.

Transom Window

A window installed above other windows, or above a door opening.  It may be either an external or an internal window.  The main purpose of a transom window is to bring light into a room, so it is usually a fixed window which is not operable.  However, some transom windows open on hinges to allow ventilation between rooms.  A transom window may be a decorative style technique.

Bars

Metals bars installed across a window for safety and security.  Often arranged together as a decorative wrought iron pattern.  Prospective buyers viewing homes with bars across the windows, may perceive the home as being located in an unsafe neighborhood with high crime.

Blinds Built in

A luxurious type of window that contains horizontal mini-blinds encased between the 2 dual panes of a window.  Blinds are opened and closed via a slide knob on the side of the window.  These types of windows are popular because the blinds are never damaged, they stay in perfect condition without bending, rusting, or collecting dust.  These windows are preferred by folks who strive for a dust-free home without allergens.

Dual Pane

Two glass panes of glass separated by air or invisible gas material.  The purpose of dual pane windows is to insulate the building by not allowing heat or cold to escape through the windows.  The insulating gas frequent used between the 2 panes is “argon”.  (Note:  compare to single pane window)

Fixed (non-operable)

Windows that are not able to be opened for ventilation.  The purpose of a non-operational window is to allow sunlight into a room, or to give a view of the outside.

Flashing

A piece of metal or other material, installed on top of the window and around the edges.  Its purpose is to prevent water damage from the window by forming a barrier shield around the window.  Windows without flashing can suffer from dry rot, termite infestation, and damage to the walls.

Frame

The wood or metal exterior of a window pane which holds the entire panel in place.

Grilles

Grilles are bars of wood or vinyl that separate the window into smaller squares, or that give the appearance of several smaller windows.  GBG = “grilles between the glass”.

Hardware

Metal and other window accessory parts, including hinges, pulleys, pivots, locks, fasteners, lifts, and pivots.

Header

The wood support beam above a window.  The header beam is larger than most of the other beams.  Its purpose is to provide the building with strong support around window openings.  If the header is cut, it may compromise the integrity of the building.

Jamb

Sides and top of a window framing that support the opening structurally.  May be part of the interior window trim.

Lintel

A horizontal stone or beam across the top of a window, designed as an architectural ornament.  It may also function as a load bearing beam.

Low E Glass

For “Greenies” seeking an energy-efficient home, the Low E Glass features low emissivity, which reduces infra-red rays and reduces ultra-violet light.  They help to protect carpet and furniture from fading.  These windows are often used for large south-facing window which receive a lot of direct sunlight.

Another similar type of glass is Passive Solar (Low-E 180).  These windows are premium products which are slightly more expensive than regular windows.

Sash

A window panel that is able to be opened, typically a sliding glass panel.  Can be framed with wood, vinyl, metal, or fiberglass.

Screen

A fine metal mesh panel, inserted behind a window, which allows ventilation through open windows but keeps the insects from entering.

Shutters

Window shutters are wood louvers, either decorative that frame a window, or functional that close to block light from a room.  Some shutters are doubled on each side, and swing to close with hinges in between each pair.

Sill

A wooden, stone, or manufactured material that goes across the bottom of the window opening and forms the window base.  The sill can be inside, outside, or both.  The slat should slope away from the window to keep water and moisture from damaging the window.

Storm

A window specially designed to protect the occupants against tornados, hurricanes, and other severe, stormy weather.  Often seen in southeast homes and in Atlantic tropical locations.

Tempered Glass

Manufactured so that if it breaks, there are no jagged edges.  It’s safer and in case of emergency, people will not be hurt easily.  Most building safety codes require low windows to have tempered glass.

Trim

Decorative material around a window which is also practical for insulation around the window, both exterior and interior.  Trim can be made with wood, vinyl, or factory-created materials.  Adding architectural quality trim is a simple way to update the décor and curb appeal of a home.

Vinyl Windows

Windows that are encased in vinyl (often white) rather than traditional metal or wood.  Vinyl is used more frequently because it is affordable, durable, and does not deteriorate as quickly.  Most newer vinyl windows are dual-paned glass with high energy efficiency ratings.