What are grilles or window grids?
Grids (or muntins or grilles) are strips of material that simulate smaller panes of glass. Use our quick guide to window grids to help make decisions regarding the style of your windows. Colonial-style grids are usually divided into equal sections. Commonly in sets of 4, 6 or 9. Colonial grids are a more traditional look.
What are window grids and why are they important?
When you are selecting windows for your home, you should consider the stylistic possibilities that exist with regard to the window grids. They are the strips of material that divide the total pane into smaller sections. These sections are referred to as “lites,” and the grids themselves are sometimes called muntins or grilles.
What are the different types of window grids?
The preferred type of window grid is the internal grid or muntin. These grids are placed between the panes of glass, so the surfaces of the pane are easy to clean. There are a few different options: The grid is placed between two panes, and a third one is added for enhanced energy efficiency.
What determines the style of your window grid?
One of the major factors that will determine the style of your window grid is the architecture of your home. Although there are a variety of grid styles available, we’ll explore five of the most popular. Andersen 200 Series double hung window. Photo: Andersen
What are the decorative squares of a window called?
Grilles are decorative pieces that visually divide window panels, giving the glass the appearance of multiple glass panes.
What are the white grids in windows called?
Window grids once served a crucial purpose: they held together multi-paned windows. This made it possible to ship window panes further without fear of breaking the glass. Today, window grids (also known as grilles or muntins) are largely decorative.
What are fake muntins called?
Some window grills are imitation muntins, meaning they appear to look like muntins, but they don't truly separate individual panes of glass. Instead, they attach to one large piece of glass. This often appears on newer homes, as it provides the same beauty of muntins without the risk of causing as much draft.
What's the difference between mullions and muntins?
Mullions are vertical shafts located in between windows. These elements offer structural support for the windows. Meanwhile, muntins are found on the window glass itself. They are vertical and horizontal elements that divide a window's glass into a grid.
What are glazing bars?
Also known as “muntins” or “sash bars”, glazing bars are slim pieces of timber or metal that can be used to divide a single pane of glass into a series of smaller panes.
What are SDL grids?
Simulated divided lites (SDL) offer the most authentic look and give the illusion of depth. SDLs are adhered permanently to both sides of the window with a narrow spacer bar within the insulating glass airspace. SDLs provide a bit more breadth in terms of options relating to shape and finishes.
What are window rails and stiles?
Every window has a top and bottom rail; rails located at the center of a doublehung window opening are known as "meeting rails." Jambs are the main vertical members that form the sides of a window. Stiles are the main vertical members in the framework of a sash, found at the sides of a window.
What is the grid pattern in a window called?
Grids, also known as mullions or grilles, are strips of a material like wood, metal, or vinyl that run in a grid formation on a window. Some homeowners love them because they create a classic, traditional look. At Conservation Construction our strips are vinyl and they do stand the test of time.
Cleaning
Traditional window grids required the cleaning of each grid divider and glass pane individually. Today, a majority of multi-paned windows have the grills that are sandwiched between the panes, keeping the grids free of dust and making window cleaning so much faster and easier.
Energy Efficiency
Grids in windows do not reduce the energy efficient properties of the window. Especially with C5 Windows from Conservation Construction, our Krypton/Argon gas mixture which helps insulate the window and keeps it energy efficient for life.
Considering Grids?
Of course, there are no rules as to whether you should grill or not grill your windows, however, there are some considerations that could be taken into account. For example, if the view out of a window is very boring a gridded window may make the view out more interesting.
Final Thoughts
Grids don’t reduce the energy efficiency of new windows. Grids are also known as grills and patterns. At Conservation Construction we can match any pattern that your HOA requires. We can also just add a grid to fit your style. Consider grids for your own home before you purchase.
What is a Victorian house known for?
Victorian houses are well-known for their ornate and elaborate details. It’s the rare style that emphasizes asymmetry. Victorian-style windows are tall, helping to accentuate the high peaks of the home, and decorative. You might see panes with different colors (similar to stained glass), diamond grille patterns or small square grids creating a border around an unobstructed portion of the pane. Two-over-two grille patterns are also common in both valence grids and double-hung windows.
How to make large windows look smaller?
Grids make a large window look like several smaller ones. Small windows with grilles may feel too cluttered or obstruct too much sunlight. On the other hand, large picture windows are a focal point and are often meant to maximize sunlight and showcase the outdoors. Go gridless or with a pattern that only goes around the perimeter, leaving more glass unobstructed. If you have flanking windows, that’s a better spot for styling with grilles.
What type of grids are used on Craftsman windows?
But grids are only used on the top sash — the bottom is unobstructed. Either four or six rectangular grids are used on the top sash of Craftsman-style windows.
What is a casement window?
This grid pattern often leaves small squares in the corners of the window. Casement windows are the predominant windows used in Prairie-style homes. With no sashes, they maximize the light and unobstructed space.
Why are window grids important?
Window grids once served a crucial purpose: they held together multi-paned windows. This made it possible to ship window panes further without fear of breaking the glass. Today, window grids ( also known as grilles or muntins) are largely decorative. So the decision to go with grids or without them is all about aesthetics.
How many grids are there in a colonial window?
Typically, that’s six square or rectangular grids dividing each sash, which is known as a six-over-six window. Nine- over-nine windows, where the grid pattern has nine square grids, is also common. When the sashes don’t have the same number of grids, ...
What is Craftsman bungalow?
Craftsman bungalows are an offshoot of the Arts and Crafts movement. While many characteristics are the same, the window grille patterns differ. Bungalow-style windows have fewer grids. They are either elongated on the top sash or are used in a row of small squares across the top of the window.
What is SDL grid?
Simulated divided lite grids (SDL) provide the look of classic wood, but more effective, cutting-edge materials are utilized.
What are window grids?
They are the strips of material that divide the total pane into smaller sections.
What is SDL grid?
Simulated Divided Lites (SDL) add an even more dramatic and upscale look to Harvey windows or patio doors. SDL grids are designed to replicate those beautiful older windows. SDL simulates several single panes of glass set into the grids. To create this classic look, Harvey applies three layers of grids: one on both exterior and interior surfaces of the glass, as well as a pewter in-glass grid. The result is strikingly authentic. They make the glass look like individual pieces. It's a beautiful addition to the decor of any home.
What is GBG glass?
Grids Between Glass (GBG) are color-matched grids installed between the glass panes, making them an attractive, easy-to-clean option. Both interior and exterior glass surfaces are smooth to the touch. GBG give the enhanced appearance of traditional grids, with the added benefit of easy cleaning.
What is an exterior grid?
Exterior grids are just as the name implies. Color-matched grids installed on the exterior surface of the glass with a grid between the panes of glass. This type still has a smooth interior. Permanently attached to the window, exterior grids are available in 5/8" or 1" profile.
What is a grid in windows?
Grids (or muntins or grilles) are strips of material that simulate smaller panes of glass. Use our quick guide to window grids to help make decisions regarding the style of your windows.
What is a colonial grid?
Colonial grids are a more traditional look. Prairie-style grids are divided into unequal panes. They feature a larger square in the middle and smaller squares in the corners. These are a contemporary or farmhouse style.
Does Harvey Majesty have grids?
In addition to the grids for our vinyl windows, Harvey Majesty wood windows also have several grid options. Majesty is approved for historic districts all over New England.
Quick Window Style History
How did grids in windows even become a thing? As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. Like many details throughout history, window grids originally served a critical purpose. They held together and supported multi-paned windows and made it possible to ship window panes further without breaking the glass.
Window Lingo
First, let’s familiarize you with some window terms so you aren’t lost when we start to talk about grille patterns and styles:
Architectural Styles and Coordinating Windows
There are many different styles of homes. Here is a broad sweep of architectural styles and the kinds of window designs that traditionally complement each.
How to make a window look multiple pane?
In low-cost windows, the multiple pane look is achieved by installing muntins or grid frames that snap into the sash and overlay the glass. These tend to not be durable and are easily broken. Snap in grids are also not very authentic looking. But, this kind of window grid does have the advantage of being removable to make window cleaning easier.
What is SDL window?
In high-end windows, simulated divided lites, known as SDLs are very popular. SDL windows have a single sheet of insulating glass in each sash. A framework of window grids are permanently glued to both the inside and the outside of the glass. The inside grids are made of wood to match the interior material of the window unit. The exterior grids match the exterior material of the window. For example, grids on an aluminum clad window would be made of aluminum and be maintenance-free. The better quality SDLs also have a filler strip located between the inner and out grids and within the sheet of insulated glass. These filler strips keep you from seeing a gap between the inner and outer grids.
How many panes of glass were there in the colonial era?
In order to get windows of a useful size, multiple panes of glass were joined together. A colonial American double hung window might easily have had six, nine, twelve, or more panes in each sash.
What is a window grid?
Window grids, or muntins are an architectural feature that has a significant influence on the style of a house.
How to bring out the character of a prairie home?
To truly bring out the character of your Prairie home, use casement replacement windows with square panes in the corners and long lights along the top, bottom, and sides. This window pattern leaves the center of the glass pane empty to increase the amount of sunlight in your home.
What is a perimeter grid window?
Windows with a perimeter grid are assembled with vertical frames that are inserted near the edges of the glass panes. In addition, this type of pattern features horizontal frames that are installed near the top and bottom of the window panes. To increase the amount of natural light in your living space, perimeter grid windows are not built with frames in the center of the glass panes. The middle portion of the glass panes are left empty to allow light to enter your dining room, kitchen, bathroom, or living room.
What are grids on windows?
Grids are beautiful pieces of wood or aluminum that are integrated on the exterior or interior of your window panes to add texture to your traditional or modern home. Investing in new windows with grids on the exterior of the glass is an excellent way to add character to a colonial home. On the other hand, the patterns on the panes of your windows can be customized to compliment the decor in various types of houses such as victorian, craftsman, cottage, contemporary, mediterranean, and colonial. To help you enhance the appearance of your property, we have created a list of different types of window grid styles. We have summarized the types of decorating styles each type of window compliments.
What is top row grid?
Windows with top row grids feature a row of grids on the top portion of the window and an unobstructed glass pane on the bottom. If you’re struggling to choose between transparent windows and windows with decorative patterns, investing in windows with top row grids may be the perfect option for you.
How many lights are in a sash window?
Prairie or perimeter by sash windows includes a total of 9 lights that are designed to add symmetry to the exterior of your home. This window pattern features horizontal and vertical grids that divide the glass pane into small squares that vary in size. If each of the houses in your neighborhood have a similar appearance, purchasing prairie grids is an excellent method that can be used to add lines and movement to your home. In addition, perimeter by sash windows are utilized by licensed contractors to return Victorian homes to their former glory.
What is colonial grid?
A window with a colonial grid is assembled with a glass pane that is divided into smaller squares. Colonial grids became popular in traditional American houses and can be personalized by doing both or top sashes. Colonial windows are a beautiful addition to houses with wood siding, exterior brick, or vinyl siding.
What type of windows are best for arts and crafts?
When it comes to arts and crafts, double-hung windows with plain bottoms and divided top panels work best. Since elongated panes are normal, we recommend purchasing windows with grid styles that consist of two or three long lights on the upper sash without any cross muntins.
What is a Craftsman bungalow?
Craftsman and Bungalow style homes feature double-hung windows with muntins dividing the upper sash into four or six sections. The lower sash remains unobstructed for a clear view of the outside. Also, more commonly, Craftsman and Bungalow homes go for a more updated look with elongated grille panes on top sash of the window and continue with a clear view and no grille on the bottom sash.
How many panes of glass are there in a farmhouse window?
This results in a four-pane glass window when closed. That said, some farmhouse windows do a 2 over 1 design. That means there are two panes of glass on the top and one large pane of glass on the bottom of the double hung window.
What is a window grill?
Window Grilles are the checkerboard pieces that divide the glass in your window. Some people refer to window grilles as muntins, grids, and mullions. Choosing a window style that suits your architecture and purpose is hugely important; however, equally important is the grille chosen to separate the glass. Windows are considered the eyes of your ...
What is a colonial style home?
A Colonial or Cape Cod style home will typically have divided light, double hung windows. If you’re choosing to stick with the historic style, you will see six individual panes of glass separated by muntins in both the top and bottom panels of the windows.
What is a grille on a window?
Some grilles are permanently bonded to the inside and outside of your window glass. They are essentially fake muntins. It’s one large piece of glass made to look like individual window panes.
What is a prairie style window?
A Prairie style is a type of Modern home. Straight lines and a simple grille pattern open up the viewing area of the window. Casement style window is usually used.
What are the different types of grills?
Grilles come in lots of different materials, including: wood, aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl, etc. Pella has done an excellent job showcasing the different types of grilles in each material.
