Glossary Of Terms – Windows and Doors

A collection of various windows and doors, all installed by MacFarlane Windows and Doors in London, Ontario.

Window & Door Glossary

We believe educating our customers is essential for a positive experience. At MacFarlane Windows and Doors, we ensure our clients are well-informed about the products they purchase, helping them feel confident in their choices. Whether you’re buying windows or doors, we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free.

Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable with your purchase decision. Here’s a comprehensive glossary to help you understand the terms commonly used in the industry.

Performance Metrics

  • Air Infiltration: Measures air seeping through a window or door. Measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute) or LPS (liters per second).
  • Condensation: Water deposition on cool surfaces when warm, moisture-heavy air contacts them.
  • ENERGY STAR®: A government program that helps consumers identify energy-efficient products.
  • R-value: Measures thermal resistance; higher values mean better insulation.
  • U-factor: Indicates heat transfer; lower values mean better insulation.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much solar heat passes through a window.
  • Sound Transmission Class (STC): Rates how well a window or door blocks sound.
  • Visible Transmittance (VT): Measures how much visible light passes through a window.

A detailed image of a window that is modern and energy efficient, showing all the features it has.

Glass Options

  • Argon Gas: Used between panes to enhance insulation.
  • Krypton Gas: Offers even better insulation properties than argon gas.
  • Low-E Glass: Coated glass to reduce heat loss.
  • Double-Pane Glass: Two panes of glass with an air gap for insulation.
  • Triple-Pane Glass: Three panes of glass for enhanced insulation.
  • Tempered Glass: Shatters into small pieces for safety.
  • Laminated Glass: Does not shatter when broken, enhancing safety and noise reduction.
  • Impact Glass: Designed to withstand high winds and flying debris.
  • Obscure Glass: Textured or patterned glass for privacy.

Window Styles

  • Awning Window: Hinged at the top and swings outward; great for ventilation even in light rain.
  • Bay Window: Three or more panels projecting outward, often with a central fixed pane.
  • Bow Window: Similar to a bay window but with a gentler curve.
  • Casement Window: Hinged on one side and swings outward.
  • Clerestory Window: Installed high on a wall for light and ventilation.
  • Dormer Window: Protrudes from the roof, common in Cape Cod-style homes.
  • Hopper Window: Hinged at the bottom and opens inward, often used in basements.
  • Picture Window: A large fixed window ideal for scenic views.
  • Slider Window: Opens horizontally along a track.
  • Tilt-and-Turn Window: Opens inward from the top for ventilation or the side for cleaning.

Door Features

  • Astragal: Fills the gap between double doors for a better seal.
  • Escutcheon Plate: Decorative cover around a door handle.
  • Fire-Rated Door: Designed to resist fire for a specific period, often used between a home and garage.
  • French Door: Glass-paned doors separated by partitions, often opening to patios.
  • Multi-Point Lock: Engages at multiple points for enhanced security.
  • Pocket Door: Slides into a wall cavity to save space.
  • Striker Plate: Metal plate on the doorframe where the latch engages.

A diagram labelling all the functional parts of a door.

Frame & Installation Terms

  • Casing: Trim that covers the edge between the window and wall.
  • Cladding: Weather-resistant material on the exterior frame.
  • Flashing: Material that prevents water infiltration around windows.
  • Brickmould: Exterior trim bridging the gap between the window and siding.
  • Rough Opening: The wall opening for installing a window or door.
  • Shim: Wedge used to level a window or door during installation.
  • Thermal Break: Insulating material between metal components to reduce heat transfer.
  • Vapour Barrier: Material to seal windows and prevent moisture.

Glass Design Features

  • Art Glass: Decorative glass for embellishment.
  • Caming: Metal strips joining decorative glass sections.
  • Grille: Inserts mimicking individual panes.
  • Snap-In Grilles: Easily removable grilles for cleaning.

Hardware Components

  • Balancer: Helps in raising and lowering window sashes.
  • Operator: Mechanism for opening and closing a window.
  • Jamb Clips: Attach the window or door to the jamb.
  • Lift: Handle used to open a window.
  • Sash Lock: Secures the sash in place.
  • Weep Holes: Drainage holes for water.

Miscellaneous Terms

  • Fenestration: Openings in walls for windows or doors.
  • OX/XO: Labels for stationary and moving parts of a sliding window.
  • Mullion: Structural piece joining two or more windows.
  • Mulling: The process of joining multiple windows.
  • Daylight Opening: The visible glass area of a window.

Muntins, mullions, and light coming through the windows at another MacFarlane Windows and Doors installation.

By understanding these terms, you’ll feel more confident in choosing the perfect windows and doors for your home. Have questions?