Replacement Window Terminology Explained
Replacement Window Terminology Explained –
Common Window Terms You’ll Hear With
New Windows In Olney, IL
From Sashes & Jambs To Sills
& Weatherstripping, You’ll
Learn To Talk Like A Pro
When you need replacement windows in Olney, IL, you may hear many terms you aren’t familiar with. What on earth is a spacer? And how do gas fills have anything to do with insulating your windows?
Fortunately, these terms are easy to understand once you learn what they are. Some – such as windowsills, panels, and frames – are common, and most homeowners have a general understanding of what they are. Other terms – such as jambs, casing, rail, style, or sash – are less common and can sound almost foreign to most homeowners.
Not to worry. We’ll cover replacement window terminology, from common to uncommon, so you can understand the pros when replacing your windows in the Tri-State area.
Common Replacement Window Terminology: A List
We at Window Shopping know how confusing your window replacement can be. Fortunately, we streamline and simplify the process so you don’t have to deal with headaches and hassle.
Below are some of the common terms you might hear when deciding on new replacement windows for your Olney, IL home.
Air Leakage Rating
This term is pretty self-explanatory. When looking for energy-efficient windows, you’ll want to pay attention to your new windows’ air leakage rating, which refers to how much air passes through your windows from the outside to the inside of your home.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top, meaning they can open and allow ventilation. They’re usually wider than they are tall and are similar to casement windows. But instead of opening horizontally, awning windows open vertically.
Basement Hopper Windows
These small windows are usually at the topmost part of a basement, near the basement ceiling, and located near the home’s foundation when viewed from the outside.
Bay Windows
Bay windows usually consist of three windows, with the outermost two being angled to jut out from the house.
Bow Windows
Bow windows, like bay windows, consist of a series of windows. However, while most bay windows extend from the house at a sharper angle (such as 45 degrees), bow windows have a less extreme angle – almost like the curve of a bow in a bow and arrow.
Casement Windows
Casement windows have hinges on the interior and exterior sash so the window can swing open and outward.
Casing
Your window casing refers to the molding around your window’s perimeter on the interior of your home.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows, which are generally more popular than single-hung windows due to their versatility and ease of cleaning, are windows with two sashes that can open.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Ratings such as the U-factor and the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and air filtration rating are all energy efficiency ratings for replacement windows. These ratings help you determine the most energy-efficient windows for your needs and budget.
Garden Windows
Garden windows jut outward from an exterior wall and are ideal for displaying houseplants inside your home while giving them adequate sunlight.
Gas Fills
Gas fills refer to the gas (argon or krypton) injected between the panes of double or triple-pane windows. Gas fills increase the energy efficiency of your replacement windows by insulating your home against the elements.
Hinge
The hinge is a small piece of hardware installed on the side of a window (common in casement windows) or at the top (like in awning windows), allowing the window to open outward.
Jamb
The jambs are the vertical parts of a window that form the frame.
Pane
The pane is the glass piece of a sectioned window.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are windows that are stationary and don’t have any sashes or hinges.
Rail
The rails are the horizontal components of the sash.
Sash
Sashes are movable parts of a window that contain a pane of glass. In single-hung windows, there is only one moveable sash. Double-hung windows, on the other hand, have two moveable sashes.
Sill
The window’s sill is the ledge forming the bottom part of the window.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows have only one moveable sash. They aren’t as popular as double-hung windows but are still an option we at Window Shopping carry for homeowners in the Tri-State area.
Sliding Windows
Unlike awning or casement windows, which open outward on hinges, sliding windows only slide open on a sash.
Spacers
The spacers are small pieces that separate the glass panes in double- or triple-pane windows.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl is among one of the best materials for replacement windows. They’re affordable, versatile, and have superior insulative properties that protect your home against the elements. We carry a wide range of vinyl windows and styles at Window Shopping for any budget.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is a way to prevent air and water leakage around the sashes of your windows and doors. Most weatherstripping is made of plastic, felt, or metal.
When You Need Reliable Home Window Replacements
In Olney, IL, Look No Further Than Window Shopping
Replacing your windows has many benefits, including increasing your home’s energy efficiency and boosting curb appeal. With our extensive selection of vinyl windows, you will surely find the perfect windows for your home and budget.
Whether upgrading your forever home or fixing a single window in your rental property, Window Shopping has the solution for you. Call us today at 800-867-5157 for your free estimate for replacement windows in Olney, IL.