What Are the Different Parts of a Window?

You may be familiar with terms like windowsills and window panes, but it’s understandable if you can’t name every window part. If words like aprons, mullions and jambs aren’t in your vocabulary, our window terminology guide is here to help. We’ll teach you basic window anatomy that’ll help you speak the lingo like an expert the next time you’re looking to upgrade the windows on your Kansas City home.

Why Should Kansas City Homeowners Be Aware of the Correct Terminology?

Knowing the right terms empowers Kansas City homeowners to make informed window replacement decisions. This helps you have constructive communication with window professionals so you won’t fall into deceptive sales traps and instead feel more confident about your purchase. A deeper grasp of the industry’s terminology promises a more rewarding and successful window replacement experience.

Common Window Types

Windows play a crucial role in defining the character and functionality of a home. They allow in natural light, add beauty inside and out and affect your home’s energy efficiency. When it comes to selecting the right windows for your Kansas City home, it’s essential to know the most common window types and their distinguishing features. Explore what replacement window style is right for you:

• Double-Hung Windows: This classic window style features two vertically sliding sashes that open from both the top and bottom. This allows for improved airflow while maintaining a timeless and versatile appeal.
• Sliding Windows: Sliding windows have a space-saving design with a single moving sash that glides open horizontally. They’re easy to operate, provide unobstructed views and create a sleek, modern appearance. 
• Casement Windows: Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward (similar to a door) using a crank mechanism. They boast excellent ventilation, a tight seal when closed for energy efficiency and panoramic views when open.
• Bay & Bow Windows: Bay and bow windows extend toward the outside, creating a charming alcove or bay-like space. They’re popular for maximizing your living area and view, infusing more natural light into the room and adding architectural interest to your home’s exterior.
• Awning Windows: Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward, which make them ideal for maintaining airflow in inclement weather without letting rain inside. Some options can hinge at the bottom and swing downward.
• Garden Windows: Garden windows extend outward from your home and often have multiple panes of glass. They’re perfect for plant lovers to display their herbs and allow ample natural light into the room.
• Custom Windows: Designed for unconventional shapes, sizes and architectural spaces, custom windows are tailor-made to your home when standard windows don’t cut it. Window World of Kansas City can craft the perfect window for your unique space.

Exterior Parts of a Window Frame

The window frame surrounds and supports the window pane and can be made of aluminum, fiberglass, wood or vinyl. Each part of the exterior frame is a distinct component of a window:

1. Head: The head of a window is the horizontal top part of the frame, which helps to support the structure and maintain the window’s integrity.
2. Sill: The window sill is the horizontal bottom piece of the window frame that serves as both a structural support and a barrier against moisture infiltration.
3. Jamb: The jambs are the vertical sides of the window frame that provide stability and contain tracks or rails that let the windows open.
4. Apron: The apron is a decorative molding that is installed below the windowsill. It adds an aesthetic touch while protecting the wall beneath the window from moisture.
5. Weep Holes: Weep holes are small openings built into the bottom of metal and vinyl window frames. They allow precipitation that collects in the window tracks to drain off.

Interior Parts of a Window Sash

Your window sash is the moveable part of the window that houses the pane of glass. But it’s much more than just the part that holds the glass. Here are the components of a window sash:

1. Pane: The window pane is the piece, or pieces, of glass in your window.
2. Window Rail: The horizontal part of the frame at the top and bottom of the sash is called a window rail. They contain grooves that hold the window panes.
3. Spacers: Spacers separate and support the different panes of glass in a window. Window World of Kansas City windows use the Intercept™ warm-edge spacer system to provide superior insulation and extend the life of your windows.
4. Sash Lock: This is the locking mechanism that prevents rattling and drafts and keeps your windows secure.
5. Lift: The lift is the handle for lifting and lowering the sash.
6. Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping is used to seal gaps and cracks where the window frame and sash meet. It provides an extra layer of energy efficiency and protection against the elements.

Additional Window Parts

A window is more than a frame and a pane. Here are some other window part names you should know:

1. Casing: The casing (aka window trim) is the decorative molding that surrounds the exterior window frames. It seals gaps between the window frame and the wall to prevent drafts from entering your home.
2. Mullion: A mullion is a vertical or horizontal structural piece that divides the frame into different sections. It creates the appearance of separate smaller windows within a larger window frame. 
3. Grilles: Grilles are decorative pieces that create a visually appealing grid pattern on the window. They can also provide additional security and protection.
4. Fixed Panel: Also called the stationary or picture window panel, a fixed panel is an unmovable, non-operable glass pane that does not open or close. It is most commonly seen in single-hung windows.

What Makes a Window Energy Efficient?

Windows are so much more than just their parts. It’s important that they’re energy efficient. Here are some key terms about energy efficiency to help you select the most energy-saving windows for your needs!

1. Low-E Glass: Low-E glass (short for low-emissivity glass) is a type of window glass that has been treated with a thin, invisible coating designed to filter the amount of UV light that enters your home. This coating helps reduce heat transfer and energy costs all year.
2. Argon Gas: Argon gas is used as an insulator in double and triple-pane windows. Combined with Low-E glass, this colorless, odorless gas keeps the window closer to room temperature, helping eliminate drafts and increase energy efficiency.
3. Intercept™ warm-edge spacer system: This spacer minimizes condensation and keeps the edges of glass windows warmer, creating a more comfortable temperature year-round.

Tips for Kansas City Homeowners After Learning Window Terminology

For Kansas City homeowners considering window replacement, it’s important to go beyond just window terminology and recognize the signs it’s time to replace your windows. These include rising energy costs, increased drafts, visible damage and condensation between panes. You may be able to make minor repairs, but substantial damage might require a complete window replacement.

Planning to consult with window replacement experts? During your appointment, be sure to request multiple quotes for price and services, inquire about warranties from the window professional or the manufacturer, discuss financing options, and go over the post-purchase process to ensure a smooth experience in finding the perfect windows for your Kansas City home without any future complications.

Upgrade for Premium Window Design 

Window World of Kansas City offers beautifully crafted windows that deliver unparalleled strength, security, curb appeal and energy efficiency. When you’re ready to enhance your home’s windows, our window experts are here to review all the window terms and replacement benefits with you. Contact us today to request your free estimate.