It’s important to become educated about window components to help you with your purchase decisions. The following is a glossary of some of the most common window terminology:
Air Chambers: These are small honeycomb spaces found within the frame and sash, helping to insulate a window.
Argon Gas: This is a non-toxic gas that is used to replace air between window panes, helping to prevent air from getting in from the outside, and prevent air from getting out from the inside.
Condensation: This is moisture that develops on the surface of a window.
Conduction/ Convection: Conduction is heat loss through window edges, sash, and frame, whereas convection is heat loss as a result of air movement between the window and its glazing.
Energy Star: This is the government program that establishes the quality standards for energy efficiency for windows and other products.
EcoSmart Glass: This is triple pain glass, double argon chamber filled, low-E glass that is sold exclusively through EcoTech Windows & Doors. EcoSmart glass helps to offset the cost of rising energy bills.
Factory Direct Pricing: When window companies manufacture their windows and work based on volume, consumers are able to receive more competitive pricing.
Window Glazing: This is the process of sealing glass to the window sash.
Grills: These are horizontal or vertical bars that are commonly installed between the glass panes, usually for decorative purposes.
Window Jamb: This is the vertical section of the main window frame.
Low E Glass: This is a thin metallic layer that is applied to the window surface to help reflect the sun’s rays and energy, helping to reduce the impact of exterior.
Obscure Glass: This is glass that is manufactured to be translucent.
R-value: R-value measures the resistance a material has to heat. The higher the R-value, the greater resistance it offers, making it a better insulator.
U-value: This is a measurement that shows the amount of heat transferred, with the lower the U-value, the better insulation of the window.
Window Sash: This is the window component which contains the glass.
Shims: These are two inch wide wedges that are used to position the window into the window opening. They ensure the installed window is square and flush.
Window Sill: This is the bottom section of the main window frame. It commonly has a 2-3 inch lip.
Super spacer technology: This window technology provided greater energy efficiency, less condensation and has the ability to retain heat in the winter and block out the heat during the summer.
Tempered Glass: This is glass which breaks into small pieces rather than shards when broken. It is used to help prevent cuts and injuries as a result of broken glass.
Thermal Break: This is a form of insulation that is used to slow down the transfer of heat through your windows.
Tilt Latch: This is the window mechanism that unlocks the sash. It allows the window to tilt.
Weather-stripping: This is the material that is used to form a weather-resistant seal. Its most common used in the winter and applied around the window sash to prevent air and water leakage.
