Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Awning | A single (or double) operating window in which the bottom of the sash swings outwards for ventilation |
| Astragal | The exterior center post or moulding on a double door (attached to the secondary or inactive door panel) |
| Bay | Three connected windows (usually made up of a larger fixed window in the center and two smaller operating windows on either side) in a 30 degree or 45 degree angle formation |
| Bow | Four or more connected windows (fixed or operating) in a 10 degree or 15 degree angle formation |
| Brickmould | An exterior moulding around the window (to seal and cover the exposed window opening, insulation, interior jambs etc…) |
| Casing | The interior decorative moulding/trim that covers the inside edge of the jambs and the rough openings between the window and the wall |
| Double glazing | The use of two panes of glass (in a window frame) to increase energy efficiency and to provide other performance benefits |
| Double hung | A window with two vertical operating sashes that slide up-and-down for ventilation |
| Drip cap | An exterior aluminum moulding placed on the top of the brickmould or capping of a window frame |
| Egress window | A window large enough for exit in case of an emergency |
| Fixed | Non-opening or non-operating window |
| Flashing | Aluminum attached to the outside of the head or side jambs of a window to provide a weather barrier (preventing leakage between the frame and the wall) |
| Gasket | A weatherstrip used to create a watertight seal between the sash and the window frame |
| Glazing | The glass panes in the sash of a window |
| Glazing stop | The moulding (or part of the window sash) which holds the glass in place |
| Grill | A bar used to visually separate glass into multiple lites (also named internal grid, muntin bar or window pane divider) |
| Header | A heavy beam extended across the top of the rough opening to help support the weight of the building |
| Lite | Glazing framed by muntin bars and/or sash in a window or door |
| Low-E glass | A commonly used term referring to a low emissivity coating placed on the glass surface to restrict the passage of radiant heat |
| Moulding | A trim installed around the exterior perimeter of a window frame |
| Mullion | The connectors installed between individual windows in a multiple unit window |
| Muntin | A bar used to visually separate glass into multiple lites (also named internal grid, grill or window pane divider) |
| Operator | A metal arm and gear which allows for easy opening or closing of projecting windows |
| Pitch | The degree of the slope in a roof |
| Rails | The horizontal parts of a window sash or door panel |
| Rough opening | The opening in a wall to accommodate the installation of a window or door |
| Sash balance | A system of weights or coiled springs which assist in the raising and lowering of single hung and double hung windows |
| Seat | A wooden board installed on the bottom contour of a bow or bay window (to provide a seat or shelf space) |
| Shims | Wooden wedges that are used to secure and level windows in the rough opening |
| Sidelites | Tall and narrow fixed glass on either (or both) sides of an entry door |
| Sill | The horizontal part that forms the bottom of a window or door frame |
| Sill course | The row of bricks across the bottom of a rough opening |
| Simulated divided lite | A method of constructing windows in which grills are attached to the inside and outside of glass panels to simulate the look of true divided lites |
| Single Hung | A window in which the top sash is fixed (or inoperable) and the bottom sash slides vertically up-and-down for ventilation |
| Solar gain | The amount of heat which has passed through the glass of windows and doors and has collected inside of the home |
| Stud | Wood installed vertically and horizontally to build a frame or wall |
| Transom | A smaller window attached above a door or another window |
| Triple glazing | A window glazed with three panes of glass (enclosing two separate air spaces) |
| U-Factor | A measure of heat transmission through a wall or window (the lower the U-Factor, the better the insulating value) |
| Vapor barrier | A watertight material used to prevent the passage of moisture through floors, walls and ceilings |
| Venting unit | A window or door that opens or operates |
| Wind Load | Force exerted on a surface by moving air |
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