Learn Window Jargon

There are a lot of moving parts to windows. In today’s article we’re going to teach you about specific parts of the window. That way when you hear sash or rail, you understand what that means when it comes to window replacement. Understand your new windows and you’ll have a better handle on what a quality window is. Lower Sash & Upper Sash

Sash: The sash is the moveable part of a window made up of the vertical and horizontal frame that holds the glass. The lower sash is usually the moveable part. Just remember that the sash is important for functionality and to be able to open your window. The sash needs to be made well to ensure long term longevity.

Frame

Frame: the supporting frame for the glass and sash in a window. Frames today are typically made of vinyl. Vinyl is extremely durable at holding the glass and sash in place while staying structural sound. Vinyl Frames don’t warp or expand with the heat and cold. In addition, this means they are great at preventing air infiltration. Vinyl Frames ar extremely energy efficient as well. Our Texas windows have been known to reduce the average homeowner’s energy bills by up to 40%.

Rail

Rail: A rail is the horizontal piece of a window sash – comprised of the lower rail, the check rail and the upper rail. The rail uses rollers to allow the windows to open and shut. At Conservation Construction of Texas we use a set of dual brass rollers to ensure even weight distribution and years of easy slide operation.

Lock

Lock: a mechanism that keeps the window sash secured to the frame so that it cannot be opened. It may seem like an afterthought, but the lock of the window does create optimal safety. At Conservation Construction of Texas we use a dual point locking system. This is more secure than the old- style locks.

Spacer

Spacers: are usually small pieces of plastic or metal that separate and support multiple (double or triple) panes of glass in a multi-glazed window. These spacers hold the panes in place, thus creating an air space filled with noble gasses in gas filled windows. At Conservation Construction of Texas we use a revolutionary foam spacer that does not disintegrate over time, and holds our specialty Argon gas fill. This means our spacers make our windows even more energy efficient; and our two gasses are denser than air or Argon gas alone.

Final Thoughts

We hope you’ve learned a lot about the anatomy of windows and what makes them energy efficient. There’s a lot of jargon when it comes to windows, but hopefully we’ve cleared up some of the confusion about window parts and how they work inside the window. Remember that Conservation Texas windows hold up over time and have every component needed to make a stand out window that lasts a lifetime. Thank you for reading today’s article. If you are in need of new windows please contact us to get your free quote. We will see you for the next article.