Step 1: Components of the Modern Window
Understanding the components of the modern window is the first step in selecting the best window for your home. Here is some common terminology we will use throughout the buying guide:
- Frame: The outer structure of the window that is attached to the wall structure
- Sash: The opening part of the window
- Glazing bead (also called glazing stop): The strips that hold the sealed unit in the sash and/or frame
- Sealed Unit: Two or three sheets of glass sealed together by a spacer bar, creating a sealed glass unit that may contain air, or a gas such as argon or krypton for additional thermal value.
- Brickmould: Decorative trim around the outside of the window frame that provides the look of a traditional wood trim.
- Nail flange (also called nail fin): The trim piece around the frame of the window that is fastened to the frame of the house structure.
- Rebate Flange or Stucco Flange:Trim piece around the frame of the window, primarily used for window replacement - covers the joint between the home structure and the window, and allows for full caulking or sealing of the connection.
- Weatherstrip (also called weatherseal): The strip between the sash and the frame that stops air and moisture from entering the home. Can be a fin seal, a bubble seal, a brush seal, or other styles.