The Anatomy of a Window

Windows have been around since pretty much… forever, right? Not necessarily forever, but definitely for centuries.

The window was officially invented by the Roman Egyptians around 100AD. Per Discentes, Penn’s Classical Studies publication, University of Pennsylvania actually has one of the first windows made featured in their archeology museum. One of the windows featured is from the palace of the 19^th Dynasty of Egypt’s New Kingdom ruler, Merenptah. In that same century (100AD), Romans (again) used their wit to figure out the art of installing glass into windows.

An original window from Merenptah's palace, featured in the University of Pennsylvania's Museum of Archeology.

One of the most famous types of glass in history is found in the art of stained-glass windows. By Strybuc’s research, the earliest references of stained-glass date back to 675 AD. The earliest findings we are aware of is when Saint Benedict Biscop employed French workmen to glaze pieces of window to install in the monastery of Saint Peter. From there, lots of examples of stained glass can be found all over the United Kingdom and France, as well as many other locations across Europe. Isn’t that wild?!

Why are we speaking about history of windows and what does stained glass have to do with anything? Great question. It’s a good intro to the basics of windows. We, at Strybuc, thought it would be a good idea to refresh on some of the basics.

Starting off, let’s review the parts of a window, specifically about single and double hung windows. The main difference between a single and double hung window is in the name; the single sash has one operating panel, while a double sash window has two operating panels. Usually, the bottom panel of the single hung window operates. Of course, the double hung window operates on both ends – the top and bottom.

Here are the main parts you should know about if you’re in the market to get your windows (double or single-hung) fixed. The next terms are terms that relate to the outside of a window:

• Head: the main horizontal part, located at the top of the window frame.
• Jambs: the main vertical parts, located at the sides of the window frame.
• Sill: the main horizontal part, located at the bottom of the window frame.
• Jambliner: a strip of material (usually made out of vinyl and aluminum) that is supposed to be installed on the sides of a window frame to provide a snug fit for a window sash.

In addition, here are some other terms that would be helpful for your window knowledge regarding the inside of a window:

• Balance: a mechanical device (which is often spring loaded), used in both single and double hung windows. Balances are very important as they are used to counterbalance the weight of the sash during the action of pulling and pushing open a hung window. You might need two or four balances, depending on if you have a single or double hung window (call us at 800-352-0801 so we will be able to guide you on what you need!).
• Sash: the movable part of a window inside the vertical and horizontal frame that holds the glass (in essence, it’s the window panel).
• Lift: a window part commonly found on wood windows. A handle used for raising the lower sash (the bottom panel) in a single- or double-hung window.
• Sash lock: a locking mechanism used with either a single- or double – hung window. The sash lock ensures to prevent window rattling.

On the other hand, casement windows work a little bit differently. Instead of pushing or pulling a window sash, casement windows push out, almost like a door. This type of window are usually operated by a handcrank. The casement windowpane extends away from the house for ventilation.

Casement windows, again, have a very western European origination, just like sash windows. These types of windows first were established in the 18^th century (the 1700s), which replaced the older, stone mullioned windows. These types of original windows were made in multiple panes. It was a task to make casement windows in the 18^th century, as the window was made of multiple panes. Glass was difficult to make during these times, and glass was already expensive to afford. Many people saw glass as a luxury for the nobles back then. However, as time went on, forwarding through the 19^th century (the 1800s aka the Victorian Era), casement windows needed less panels to be manufactured. Today, because of the technologies and inventive minds we have today, glass and window technology is at the highest standard possible.

A wrought iron casement window with horizontal saddle bars. Window located in Cheddington, Bucks, United Kingdom. Original date of window unknown, but most likely around the 19th century. 

The main parts that make a casement window are the lock handle, the operator, and the weatherstripping.

• Lock handle: a locking mechanism for safety, located in the jamb of a window.
• Operator: the crank operated device for opening and closing the casement or awning windows. At Strybuc, we also sell handles to go with the operators! Don’t forget the covers, too!

We hope that this was an educational moment for you! We’re always here to guide you further at our toll free line, 800-352-0801 or 800-352-0800.