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Windows
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French Doors
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Patio Doors
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Front Doors
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Roller Shutters
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Window Sills
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Windows
French Doors
Patio Doors
Front Doors
Roller Shutters
Window Sills
To understand how windows work, it is best to get an overview of the different available types and key construction elements. On its most basic level, a window consists of a frame which encases and holds glass in place. If the window can be opened, the frame will then be attached via fittings to a moveable sash, a slightly smaller frame containing the glazing.
There are many different types of openable window sashes on the market. At windows24.com, for example, customers can choose between a single casement sash, or up to three sashes next to each other for a larger front. Different shapes are also available. If multiple sashes are chosen, there are then a range of connection possibilities. Sashes can feature a mullion or bar between them, which remains there when both are opened, for instance, or can rather be constructed without this piece to allow for open views out, bringing in a maximum amount of light.
Although casement windows with sashes are a particularly modern, insulating type of window and one that we would recommend, various systems are popular in other parts of the world. In the UK, for example, Georgian sash windows are often used in historic buildings and feature a top sash that slides vertically over a bottom one. In the US, on the other hand, outward opening single or double-hung windows are more common.
A window frame can come in different materials. They play a large role in terms of the product's functional properties and design. uPVC is a popular modern frame material for windows and doors alike, for example, and ensures excellent insulation, affordability, and user-friendly low maintenance thanks to its innovative sleek surfaces.
For those after a more traditional look, however, wooden frames are also available that add warmth to the interior space and impress with their sturdiness and unique, decorative textures. In terms of enhanced durability and top weather-resistance others again may prefer an aluminium, clad uPVC-alu, or wood-alu window frame with their robust external shells and highly customisable surfaces.
Similarly to the frame and sash, window or door glass can also often be customised and comes in different varieties, purpose-designed for certain performances.
At windows24.com we offer double and triple glazing, for instance, featuring two or three panes of glass respectively.
The greater the number of panes, the thicker the glazing and the more energy efficient it will be.
There is then also glazing produced with superior break-in protection in mind. Laminated safety glass, for example, features PVB film layers inside the panes which increase impact resistance and prevent the glazing from shattering into sharp shards. In terms of design, some customers may then prefer ornamental glass – at windows24.com we offer window and door glazing for frosted surfaces, for example, as well as decorative patterned textures.
Together the window frame, sash and glass make up the window or door profile. Different profiles or models are available for the various materials and feature high-quality internal constructions to produce their unique properties.
Taking one of our most insulating profiles, the uPVC energeto 8000ED, as an example, the image below shows the multiple intricately engineered parts inside the window model.
In terms of the profile's excellent energy efficiency, the chambers, foam, and reinforcement play a central role. The chambers trap air or are filled by the insulating foam, for example, which help to prevent heat from being conducted through the frame or sash. Having a carbon fibre reinforcement instead of one made from conductive steel then further boosts this property while also creating a sturdy structure.
In terms of the other elements, many window and doors also feature a glass seal. This ensures a particularly secure and watertight fit between the glazing and sash while the glass strip maintains the necessary contact pressure.
Because aluminium windows have similar features, such as foam or chambers, to those already described above, the internal structure of a wooden profile with its rail sill can be a good further example to understand the parts of a window.
As seen in the image, wooden windows often feature layer-glued wood. This ensures high stability and guaranteed durability.
Sealing levels are then also present between the sash and the frame, which make certain that the connection is airtight and snug, helping to prevent energy loss and to provide excellent watertightness.
A horizontal bottom rain rail then makes for effective water shedding and acts like a sill, protecting the window from the elements.
Although there are a range of different openable sashes on the market, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, at windows24.com we offer casement sash windows. These can come with a tilt-only opening or a tilt and turn mechanism. With these systems, the user can open the window by turning the handle to different positions.
The window can then be tilted, opened ajar into the room by about 15°, or optionally fully turned open, swinging inwards to the side like a door. Such window openings are made possible thanks to quality fittings like mushroom pins, hinges, and lock striking plates on the side of the sash. Scissors connecting the sash and frame at the top then allow for the secure tilting.
