Key Takeaways
- Windows are made of several parts including the frame, glass, and hardware components.
- The frame consists of the head, sill, and jamb to provide structure and support.
- Glass types and glazing options can significantly impact energy efficiency and noise reduction.
- At Panda Windows & Doors, we provide a wide range of window options including casement, fixed, awning, and sliding.
Parts Of A Window
Learn about the parts of a window with this diagram.
1. Frame
Think of the frame as the backbone of the window. It’s the outer structure that holds everything together - the part that gives the window its shape and strength.
Frames can be made from wood, vinyl, or aluminum. Wood adds classic charm, vinyl is low maintenance, and aluminum is durable.
2. Sash
The sash is what holds the glass in place. Depending on the type of window, it might stay put or move around:
- Single-hung and Double-hung Windows: These have two sashes that slide up and down.
- Casement Windows: Here, the sash swings open sideways like a door.
3. Glass Pane
The glass pane is… well the glass. Nowadays, windows often come with double or even triple panes to keep your home cozy and energy-efficient. And if you really want to up the benefits, add Low-E coatings too.
Read More: Low-E Glass vs Double-Glazed Glass: Which Is Better?
4. Head, Jambs, and Sill
- Head: This is the top horizontal piece of the frame - the ceiling for your window.
- Jambs: These are the vertical sides that keep the sash snug in place.
- Sill: The sill sits at the bottom and helps channel water away from your home. It can double as a little ledge for plants or décor.
5. Muntins and Grids
Muntins (or grids) break the glass into smaller sections, adding a bit of flair to the design on top of providing extra support.
6. Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping seals up those tiny gaps around the sash to keep out drafts and moisture. Usually made from rubber or foam, it’s the reason your home stays cozy and dry during a storm.
7. Window Hardware
Hardware includes all the little mechanisms that make your window work smoothly and stay secure, this includes locks, handles, and balances.
8. Apron and Casing
- Apron: This decorative piece sits under the sill to cover the gap between the window and the wall.
- Casing: Casing wraps around the frame to add a finished look and block out drafts.
9. Weep Holes
Located at the bottom of the frame, they let water drain out to prevent it from pooling and causing damage.
10. Stiles and Rails
The sash is made up of stiles (vertical pieces on the sides and rails (horizontal pieces at the top and bottom).
Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.
We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.
Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today
9 Security Add-Ons For A Window
- Multi-Point Locking Systems: These systems make it harder for intruders to pry it open.
- Window and Door Sensors: If someone tampers with or opens a window, these sensors ring the alarm and notify you or a security service instantly.
- Shatter-Resistant Glass: Shatter-resistant glass can take a beating and still hold strong. Even if someone tries to smash their way in, it won’t give up easily.
- Security Film: Here’s a simple but effective trick - apply clear security film to your windows. If the glass does shatter, the film holds it together to delay intruders and buy you time for help to arrive.
- Security Screens: Security screens add a barrier that keeps intruders out while still letting fresh air and sunlight in.
- Reinforced Frames: A tough window needs a tough frame. Reinforced frames made from materials like aluminum or heavy-duty vinyl give your windows extra strength.
- Window Security Bars or Grilles: Old-school but effective, security bars or grilles block burglars (but not the air).
- Motion-Activated Lights: These lights shine bright the moment they detect movement near your windows, giving you a heads-up.
- Smart Window Technology: Smart windows have features like remote locking/unlocking, glass that turns opaque for privacy, and instant alerts.
Read More: Door & Window with Keyless Entry Systems | Cost, Pros & Cons
Choose Panda Windows & Doors For Your Custom Designs
With us, you don’t have to settle for standard options - we make custom windows.
With over 30 years of experience, we’ve built a reputation as an industry leader in crafting custom windows that stand out. Be it for a cozy home or a large commercial project, here’s why we are the best option for your project:
High-Performance Materials
We don’t cut corners. Our windows are made with thermally broken aluminum and stainless steel for energy efficiency. Plus, many of our products are impact-resistant.
Advanced Engineering
Our engineering team uses proprietary hardware and extrusions to make sure that even the most ambitious designs come to life without sacrificing durability or performance.
Large Dimensions Available
Our window panels can reach up to 24 feet tall and 16 feet wide. That means breathtaking views and floods of natural light for any space.
Reach out to us to learn more about our products and get a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I improve window security?
You can improve window security with locking mechanisms, reinforced or laminated glass, and alarm systems, among other things.
What is the most energy-efficient window type?
Casement windows are often considered the most energy-efficient because they seal tightly when closed to prevent air leakage. Double or triple-glazed windows with Low-E coatings and argon gas filling also improve energy efficiency significantly.
How do I choose the right window style for my home?
Choosing the right window style depends on several factors, including:
- Your home's architectural design
- Your personal preferences
- Your functional needs
Consider how much natural light you want, the level of ventilation needed, and the ease of maintenance.
How often should windows be replaced?
The lifespan of windows varies based on the materials and environmental conditions. Generally, windows should be replaced every 15 to 20 years. However, if you notice drafts, condensation between panes, or difficulty operating the windows, it may be time for a replacement.
What types of windows and doors does Panda Windows & Doors provide?
We provide a wide range of windows, including bi-fold doors, multi-slide doors, pivot doors, fixed windows, casement windows, and more.
