720-427-4477What are window panes?
Every home or structure has windows, and as modern people in a modern age, we may take them for granted. In the past, windows were made from paper, flattened animal horns, and oiled animal skins, and it was not until the 1700s that glass windows became commonplace. But what are window panes? We look at them every day and may not even know what they are.
Parts of a Window
Various parts of a window come together to make the complete window.
Window Panes
Window panes are the sheets of glass inside the window frame. They come in various forms of thickness:
- Single-pane: Single-pane windows are a single sheet of glass that is placed in a window frame. They are found in older homes and let more cold or hot air in than double pane. They also let in more noise than other windows.
- Double-pane: Features two sheets of glass within the window frame. There is usually a small gap in between them. This often holds argon gas, which can make the window more efficient, and stronger too.
- Triple-pane: Not as common as other types of windows, triple-pane is known to be the most energy-efficient of them all.
Window panes can be plain glass or ornate and usually come in a large sheet. They can also come in different shapes. The pane often dictates how energy efficient the windows are as a whole.
Frame
The window frame is usually comprised of wood, vinyl, or fiberglass. This holds the whole system and has a few different parts.
- Head
- Top horizontal piece
- Jambs
- Sill
Sash
The sash is the portion of a window frame that helps it move. It can usually go up or down, sometimes, it may open in an alternative way.
Screen
Not all windows have a screen, but when they do, it is a sheet of mesh stretched over the opening. This can prevent bugs or debris from getting inside while still providing ventilation.
Weatherstripping
This is a flexible part of the window that seals the connection between the frame and the sash. It can maintain a barrier from the outside world, preventing wind and rain from getting inside.
When to Replace Your Windows
If you live in a home that is more than 15 years old, you most likely need to replace your windows. This is not always the case, and even younger homes can need window replacement.
If your house is hard to keep warm, or cool, then you may need to replace them. This can be understood by looking at your utility bill. The costs may increase in summer and winter, but it shouldn’t be extremely dramatic.
If it is hard to open your windows, this may be another sign you should replace them, but especially if they are leaking, you know it’s time to call a Denver Window Company.