ProductsWindows

What Do All These Replacement Window
Terms In San Marco, FL Mean?

Explaining Terminology Of
Window Replacements

Best window replacements in San Marco, FL by Jacksonville Doors & Windows

Replacement windows in San Marco, FL are a great way to spruce up your home and make it more energy-efficient. But finding out what the ratings and parts of a window are when you’re shopping can feel like trying to crack a code. If that’s the case, think of this guide as a decoder.

Jacksonville Doors & Windows has been serving the St. Augustine-Jacksonville Beach area for over 30 years. We know windows well, and we’re always happy to share our knowledge with Jacksonville homeowners.

Residential Replacement Window Parts

The window parts combine to create your residential replacement window. While not all windows have all window parts, most of them have a few simple pieces that come together to create a standard residential window.

  • Sash: A moveable part of the window that supports the glass. These often have locks. Windows, like picture windows, do not have a sash.
  • Jamb: The sides and top of the frame, which is why the words frame and jamb are sometimes interchanged.
  • Casing: A decorative molding around the window that improves the look of the jamb – it is very similar to trim.
  • Sill: The bottom part of the frame parallel to the floor.
  • Glazing: The process that creates layers of glass. Single-glazing means a single layer, while double-glazing means there are two layers of glass.
  • Pane: The glass section that sets inside each “frame” of the window.

Energy Efficiency Ratings For Residential
Window Replacements

Energy efficiency is a broad term that is sometimes treated as a single term. However, a lot goes into the energy efficiency ratings of replacement windows. These ratings seem confusing at first, but after breaking them down, you learn exactly why the window is energy efficient.

  • R-Value: Rating of thermal resistance, which describes the window’s ability to hold in heat. The higher the value, the more energy efficient.
  • U-Factor: Measures the rate of heat transfer or the gain and loss of heat through the window. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): The part of solar radiation that gets through the window. It is measured on a fraction scale. The lower the SHGC, the more energy efficient.
  • Visible Transmittance (VT): How much light gets through the window. This is purely based on preference, but it does affect eye sensitivity. The higher the VT, the more light.
  • Air Leakage (AL): A scale of how much air gets through the gaps (if any). The lower the value, the better. The lowest rating is 0.1.
  • Condensation Resistance: Rates the potential of condensation formation on the inside of the window. The higher the number, the better.

Types Of Window Replacements

The type of window refers to the shape and style of the window. These are based on visuals and functionality. Some windows open and close to allow fresh air in, while others are there to let the light in. Though there are dozens of window types, a few types continue to climb the ranks in popularity.

  • Single-Hung: This means that the lower sash opens, but the upper one is fixed.
  • Double-Hung: This means that both sashes can open. One is going down, and the other is going up.
  • Sliding: A style that is defined by the sliding aspect of the sections. Most windows can be sliding windows.
  • Awning: A style that consists of a single section that swings outward from the frame on hinges.
  • Casement: A window designed to let air in by swinging out. These can be single or double.
  • Picture: A single pane window that does not open. These are usually large and allow the most light in.
  • Bow: A window that has curved frames that allow for space inside. This type of window has glass sections but is still considered the same window.
  • Bay: A type of window that is angled rather than curved. It is made with multiple windows, which create space inside your home.

Learning about different types of residential windows and the terminology that you see can help you find the best options for your home. If you want to learn more about window terminology or if you’re ready to buy a new replacement window, call Jacksonville Doors and Windows today at (904) 503-0680 for a free quote.