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Anatomy of a Window

All the terms and tricks to get functional and energy-conscious windows

Written by Jeannie Matteucci

Illustration: Steven Stankiewicz

Besides providing welcome views of the outside world, properly installed windows can help keep utility bills under control and deliver the natural ventilation your home needs. Before you go shopping for new windows, here’s a rundown on the basic components to help you talk the talk:

[1] RAIL: Horizontal members of the sash, rails fit between vertical components of a window. Every window has a top and bottom rail; rails located at the center of a doublehung window opening are known as "meeting rails."

[2] JAMB Jambs are the main vertical members that form the sides of a window.

[3] STILE Stiles are the main vertical members in the framework of a sash, found at the sides of a window.

[4] GLAZING (OR LIGHTS) Glazing is a term used for the process of mounting glass into windows and doors and also refers to the glass or plastic panes themselves.

[5] SIDE CASING The decorative trim, exposed framing or molding—on either the inside or outside—that covers the space between the side of the window frame and the wall.

[6] STOOL The interior shelflike piece also known as the sill.

[7] APRON/SKIRT An inside horizontal trim board that lies flat against the wall under the stool/interior sill extension.

[8] HEAD CASING The finish trim at the top of a window frame that covers the space between the top of the window frame and the wall (like the side casing).

[9] MUNTIN Individual pieces of a decorative grid installed on the exterior or interior of a window or sandwiched between the panes on thermal windows. These secondary framing components help hold window panes in the sash and divide a window opening into smaller sections. (Not to be confused with mullions, which are vertical members that divide closely spaced windows.)

[10] SASH The frame of the window that actually holds the glass in place, a sash consists of rails at the top and bottom with stiles at the side.

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