A Guide to Replacement Window Parts
Most people think of windows as a way to get air and sunlight inside a space. And there's no question that these goals are extremely important. However, windows are also responsible for letting heat in and providing an aesthetic quality to any house. When researching replacement window companies or replacement window parts, it important to understand each window part and to ensure that each piece is replaced properly when necessary. If, at any time, you're unsure whether you can properly replace a specific window part, you may want to hire a professional contractor to help with the job.
Window jamb (head and side jambs)- Located along the top and sides of most windows, jambs are part of the structural support of every window. Window jambs can be built from metal, vinyl, wood or plastic. Leaks, stains or rotting on the window jambs indicates that the jamb likely needs to be replaced.
Upper sash/lower sash- Sashes are most frequently found in windows which slide up and down when opening. They are the frames which hold the sliding panes of glass. Wood is the most popular choice of materials for the creation of window sashes as it can be painted and stained. Wood is also a wonderful insulator when used in windows. Vinyl is a more affordable option, though it looks chunkier than wood. Window sashes can also be built from fiberglass or stainless steel.
Sash lock- Windows that open from top to bottom or bottom to top often employ a sash lock to secure each window pane in place when the window is closed. Sash locks are one of the most frequently replaced parts of a window, and they can be purchased on their own or as part of a complete replacement window kit.
Top rail- As its name suggests, the top rail is the part of a window that secures the glass pane at the top of the structure and meets the stiles on each end.
Bottom rail- The bottom rail is the lowest horizontal part of the window which holds the glass pane in place and meets the stiles on each end.
Stile- Window stiles are the vertical panels that hold up windows and replacement windows on either side. They are secured by the top and bottom rails and are generally a standard part of every replacement window.
Muntin- A muntin is a strip that is designed to connect several panes of glass, or to create the illusion that several pieces of glass are connected to form a complete glass panel. Although classic muntins are composed of wood, many consumers today are choosing purely decorative muntins which are created by sandwiching aluminum or plastic strips between two panes of glass. Installing muntins is an easy way to change the look of any space when installing replacement windows.
Stool- The window stool is the flat piece of material upon which the window shuts. This term is often used interchangeably with the term 'interior window sill'.
Exterior sill- An optional part of a window, an exterior sill is a small ledge that protrudes horizontally on the outside of the window along the bottom of the window pane.
Apron- The window apron is the decorative molding that is found directly underneath the window sill. The apron is an optional piece that is used to add a touch of elegance to windows.
Interior casing- Interior casing is a wood panel that lines the interior of the window to provide a polished, finished look for windows. Interior casings look especially stylish in deep-set windows.