Windows and Doors 101
Confused about all the window, door and skylight options available at WindowRama? Read this page to learn more about window and door terminology.
- Window/Door Types
- Window/Door Anatomy
- Vinyl vs. Wood
- Door Options
Double Hung or
Single Hung Window
One or both sashes slide vertically. Some models tilt in for easy cleaning.
Casement Window
Opens outward by hinging at the left or right side.
French Casement Window
Both sashes open out. No center jamb.
Awning
Hinged at the top and swings outward.
Sliding or Gliding Window
One or both sashes slide horizontally.
Picture Window
A non-venting or inoperable fixed window.
Round Top Window
A half-circular window usually placed above another window or door.
Quarter Round Window
A quarter-circle window typically used in combination with other units for architectural effect.
Elliptical Top Window
Like a Circle Top, except elliptical in shape.
Arch Top Window
A window with an arched top and strait sides.
Polygon Window
Windows of unusual shapes, i.e. - octagons, trapezoids, triangles, etc.
Combination Window
Made by joining single units to form more elaborate designs.
Bay Window
Has side flanker windows set at 30, 45 or 90 degrees, with one or more center windows.
Bow Window
Made up of three or more windows, assembled along a common radius.
Skylight or Roof Window
A fixed or vented roof-mounted unit.
Basement Window
Hinged on the bottom to open outward hopper-style.
Sliding Patio Door
2, 3 or 4 panels. On 2 & 3 panel models, 1 panel slides. On 4 panel units, 2 center panels slide.
Hinged Patio Door
One or both panels swing inward or outward for egress.
|
|
Windows and Patio Doors: Vinyl vs. Wood
Keep the following things in mind when choosing your new windows. If you’re still having trouble deciding, visit your local WindowRama showroom and ask one of our WindowRama sales associates for advice. They’re factory-trained window and door experts!
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows and patio doors are typically made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and provide very good energy savings. For the budget minded consumer, they offer a great value in price versus performance. Available in standard sizes, they're also available in custom sizes and shapes. Vinyl is maintenance-free, since the vinyl color goes all the way through. They never need painting or touch-ups, since nicks and scratches don’t show a different color. For all these reasons, vinyl windows are popular for direct replacement window applications.
Wood Windows
Wood windows offer exceptional energy savings, and come in an almost endless variety of standard sizes and shapes. Custom sizes and shapes are also available. A number of different exterior and interior coating options (cladding) are available that make them virtually maintenance-free. Wood windows are the choice when you need to match existing windows, and will add more resale value to your home than vinyl windows.
Entrance and Interior Doors:
Wood, Wood Composite, Fiberglass or Steel?
All of the door types we feature at WindowRama are available in a wide range of styles and sizes, with lots of choices of sidelites, transoms, glazing options, and hardware. WindowRama - we're not just windows!
Wood Doors
Wood doors are available in a variety of hardwoods and softwoods, and are perfect when you want that solid, classic look and feel.
Wood Composite Doors
Constructed of advanced wood fiber panels over a solid lumber frame, wood composite doors are an economical, reliable alternative to solid wood. Available in a wide range of styles to match any decor, they are also stainable and paintable.
Fiberglass Doors
Enviromentally friendly fiberglass construction makes these doors up to 5 times more energy efficient than typical wood doors. Featuring handcrafted details and styling, they're even paintable and stainable to match your decor.
Steel Doors
Steel doors are strong and secure, and are the choice when you want maximum durablility and efficiency without sacrificing styling and affordability. Built-in protection from rust and corrosion means these doors will last for years.
