When shopping for windows, have you heard the term window muntins used, yet you didn’t know what the term referred to? Although not a commonly used term by the average homeowner, window muntins are simply the strips that separate the glass in windows or doors into smaller sections. Window muntins can be real, in the sense that they actually connect separate panes of glass to form a larger window. More likely, if you are looking at newer windows, window muntins will be false. This means that they are strips either within a multi-paned section of glass or on the exterior of the glass that make it look like the panes are actually made up of smaller panes of glass.
Why Are Window Muntins Used?
Initially they were designed as a way to turn small panes of glass into a larger window by connecting the small panes together. Back in the 19th century, this was a less expensive way to construct large windows than using a solid, large pane of window glass. In modern times, it is now less expensive to create larger windows out of one large pane, rather than connecting smaller individual panes. Since many people still like the traditional look of divided light that window muntins offer, false versions can be placed on the exterior of a large pane of glass or within the glass itself (if it is double-paned) to produce the same look.
What Are Window Muntins Made From?
Just about any material that is made to construct window frames can also be used to create muntins. Traditional window muntins were almost exclusively made from wood, but you can now find muntins made from aluminum, metal, PVC or plastic. If they are placed on the exterior of a glass pane, they are typically made from the same material as the window frame itself. If they are placed within multi-paned windows, they are more often made from PVC or metal.
Different Styles
All window muntins provide the same general look – the traditional feel of divided light. But, there are many different styles that create that look. As mentioned, muntins can be real or false. They can be made from different materials. They can even be permanent or removable. Here are a few different styles to consider:
Real – These truly separate individual small panes of glass within larger windows. The muntins are usually made from wood and often are used on wood windows.
False – False muntins make a window look as if it is made from a series of smaller panes, but the window is in fact made up of only one large pane. This false style can be fastened to the exterior of the pane or can sit between the panes of glass in multi-paned windows. Exterior muntins can be permanently affixed to the window or can be removable. Interior muntins are permanent and can be selected in a variety of materials or colors. Interior muntins can sometimes affect the energy efficiency of the window. The exterior versions can make a harder to clean the panes if they are not removable.
Removable – Removable muntins are typically on the outside and can be easily removed if you need to clean, or even paint, the window. They are held in place by clips or screws. One additional benefit to removable muntins is that you can choose to take them off completely if you want a more contemporary look to your windows.
Different Designs
There are as many design options as there are types of muntins (maybe even more!). Colonial style windows have muntins separating the glass into equal sized panes, usually in six or nine sections. You will see these referred to as 6-lite or 9-lite windows. There are other options as well. Prairie muntins, for example, have a large pane in the center and then separate the window into small panes in the corners. Window manufacturers can also create a variety of different custom designs on just about any sized window. They come in different materials, different thicknesses, different colors, and different finishes. By using window muntins with your windows, you can turn your ordinary window into something extraordinary!
Additional Names
So now that you know what they are, you may still be confused because you’ve heard other terms thrown around that sound like the same thing? That’s okay because there are many other names used to refer to the strips that separate the panes, although they all serve the same purpose. Other names you may hear are muntin bars, mullions, grilles, grids, glazing bars or astragals.
