Discover window frame terminology and explore window terms for types and styles. The following is 1 of 4 pages on our section dealing with window terminology. If you have any questions about your replacement windows project, send us an email and ask away!
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Window Frame Terminology
Aluminum Clad
These are aluminum exteriors in which the exterior frame is covered by a sheet of aluminum so that it is more durable and low maintenance. Specifically, this provides the interior beauty of wood and the strength and durability on the outside. More on aluminum frames.
Double Glazed
Comprised of two panes of glass that have space between them filled with air or gas (argon or krypton) for added insulation.
Egress
These are typically found in a basement and are large enough to serve as an emergency exit or egress options.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass frames made from a composite material of glass fibers and plastic.
Knocked-Down Windows
These are pre-manufactured but unassembled window kits.
Metal Clad Windows
A wood frame interior in which the exterior wood frame is covered by a sheet of metal, steel or aluminum so that it is more durable and low maintenance. Specifically, this provides the interior beauty of wood with the exterior weather resistance of metal.
Tilt and Turn
Tilt turn windows with sashes that can be pivoted or tilted in to make them easier to clean.
Triple Glazed
windows comprised of three panes of glass that have space between them filled with air or gas (argon or krypton) for added insulation.
Vinyl Clad
Wood frame windows in which the exterior wood frame is covered by a sheet of vinyl so that it is more durable and low maintenance. Specifically, this provides the interior beauty of wood with the exterior weather resistance of vinyl. More on vinyl windows.
More Window Frame Terminology
Awning
Awnings are typically rectangular in shape that are hinged on the top so that they can open outward from above. Then, when opened, they resemble awnings, providing both ventilation and an awning for rain.
Bay
A set of three (or more) windows that are connected along the vertical edges and jut out from the wall of a house. Additionally, the frames sit at an angle to one another with the center pane typical larger than the two outside sections. Additionally, click here for more information on bay windows.
Bow
A series of multiple windows that are connected and angled in such a way as to form a curved or bowed window that extends out from the exterior wall of a house. Additionally, click here for more information on bow windows.
Casement
These have a set of hinges on a vertical side of the window (either right or left side) that allows the sash to swing opened and closed. Also, Casements can open towards the interior or exterior of the house, depending on how the hinges are mounted to the sash.
Clerestory
They that are mounted high up on a wall to allow the maximum infiltration of light into a room.
Colonial
These have multiple panes, or the illusion of multiple panes, within a sash. Specifically, they are typically single or double hung windows and are referred to as 6-lite, 9-lite, 12-lite, etc., which indicates how many panes are in the window. Additionally, click here for more information on Colonial windows.
Double Hung
These are the most popular style and have two movable sashes, one above the other. Additionally, click here for more information on double hungs.
Fanlight
Semi-circle windows that have bars radiating out from the center. Typically, this type of window is placed over another window or a door.
Fixed Or Fixed Frame
These are non movable options, as opposed to casements, awnings etc that open. So, for more info, click here to tead up on fixed frames.
Geometric
These come in a variety of geometric shapes other than rectangular, square or round. Specifically, examples are octagons and trapezoids.
Greenhouse
These are similar to bays or bows, but the top of the window is also comprised of glass.
Hopper
Hopper windows open in from the top and are a relatively uncommon window style.
Jalousie
A jalousie is made up of a series of horizontal glass panes that resemble slats. The slats can be pivoted open using a hand crank.
Lancet
A lancet window has a pointed arch at the top in the Gothic style.
Lattice
These have diagonal shaped panes made possible by diagonally situated muntins.
Transom
Transoms are placed above a door to provided added light. Transoms are usually operable, meaning they open to provide ventilation.
Oriel
Oriels are similar to bays, these windows are supported completely by attachment to the exterior wall and do not extend down to the ground.
Palladian
Palladian windows are large and often rectangular or square in shape. Often, they have smaller semi-circle windows above and other small windows on each side. Lastly, they are also called Venetians.
Picture
Large fixed or stationary windows that do not open. Additionally, picture windows are often flanked by operable windows for ventilation.
Queen Anne
This is where the upper sash is comprised of a number of small panes arranged in a variety of patterns.
Sidelights
Sidelights are mounted on the sides of a door to let in additional light and ventilation.
Single-Hung Windows
These have two sashes, one above the other, but only the lower sash is movable and the upper sash is fixed. Additionally, visit our page on single hungs.
Skylight
These are roof mounted windows that provide light from above. Also, operable skylights provide great ventilation. Additionally, find out more on skylights.
Venetian
Large rectangular or square windows that have smaller semi-circle windows above and other small windows on each side. Conversely, these are also called Palladian.
Related Topics
Window Components
Windows Construction
Installation Terms
