Anatomy of Renewal by Andersen® Replacement Windows

People get bewildered with all the technical terms when talking with a window replacement contractor representative. While our own representatives are more than happy to take the time to explain these terms during our consultations, we’ve prepared this list for the benefit of those who are more than a bit shy to ask.

1. Argon gas – The space between glass panels (see “Dual pane”) can be optionally filled with an odorless, colorless, non-toxic inert gas that serves as additional insulation. Argon is a popular choice among other inert gases because it isn’t as expensive as other options like krypton, yet provides superior insulation. Renewal by Andersen® replacement windows are optionally filled with a custom argon gas blend.

2. Casing – This is the functional equivalent of crown molding, installed to cover the transition from drywood to window frame and add a clean look to a completed window installation.

3. Dormers – Dormers are small roofed windows that protrude from sloped roofs, and are a prominent feature of Cape Cod and Farmhouse style architecture. Double hung windows are typically chosen for dormer windows. It adds natural light to attics, and can even improve insulation with the right kind of replacement windows.

4. Dual pane – To insulate glass (a naturally conductive material), we insert a space between two glass panels separated by a nonconductive spacer. The vacuum eliminates air molecules that heat may transfer to, resulting in insulated glass. This is a prominent feature of every Renewal by Andersen patio door and window replacement.

5. Jamb, sill, and head – Window and door frames have different parts. The vertical parts are called the jamb, the weight-bearing bottom is called the sill, while the top is called the head. Some window styles add a lintel at the top, either as a load-bearing component or as an ornament.

6. Low-emissivity glass – Also known as “low-E” glass, this type of window glass has one or several layers of spectrally-selective coating that blocks ultraviolet and infrared rays without affecting visible light. Our High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass options feature multiple layers of this coating that filters up to 95% of UV rays, among its other benefits.

7. Mullions or grilles – These are the divisions you see on windows and patio doors, and traditionally holds several small glass panels. Today’s replacement windows have a single instance of dual-pane glass with the grilles installed on or between the glass panes. In addition to being a decorative component, it also adds structural strength, especially on large window units.

8. Sash – This is the operable section of the window that contains the glass panels. Depending on the window style, it can swing or slide open.

Renewal by Andersen® of Atlanta serves homeowners in and around Atlanta. To know more about our replacement windows call us today at (866) 609-5033 or fill out our contact form for your free estimate and in-home consultation with our local window and door experts.