A window has many purposes for a home—in addition to providing a view to the outside, a window also functions as a ventilator and as a vessel to allow in natural light. Because of the many important functions of a window, it is imperative that a window be structured properly and able to seal out weather and block powerful winds. A quality window will also seal and prevent leakage while remaining easy to open and close Below, the window suppliers at Acadia Windows & Doors provide an overview of basic window parts as well as a breakdown of maintenance practices.

Basic Window Parts

In order to understand basic window maintenance techniques, it is necessary to have a general understanding of the basic parts of a window. While a window may seem like a fairly simple device, it is a complex piece of equipment made up of layers of hardware, each with their own necessary function. While there are many types of windows, most window styles include a frame and a sash.

A window frame is the outermost casing of a window that works like a border and contains the window sash within it. A window sash is the area inside of the window frame that securely holds the glass panes in place. Here at Acadia Windows & Doors, our sashes use double-strength Insulated Glass Units (IGU’s), that are utilized in hung windows, sliding windows and casement windows.

Basic Window Maintenance Practices

Below are operating instructions and basic window maintenance practices for hung windows, sliding windows and casement windows:

Hung Windows:

Double-hung windows are constructed with two tilting sashes, and single-hung windows are constructed with one bottom tilting sash and a top stationary sash. To tilt the lower sash of a double-hung window, first unlock the window, raise the lower sash a minimum of three inches and disengage the sash by squeezing both tilt latches towards the center of the sash. With both hands, carefully pull the top of the lower sash towards you to a horizontal position and continue to tilt the window until it is all of the way down and resting against the sill and the wall.

Sliding Windows:

Sliding windows are built along a horizontal track and can be opened and closed by sliding the sash along the track. They are able to be removed from their tracks in order to be cleaned. To remove the sash, unlock the window and open the sash at least 8 inches. Then, lift the sash up into the top track of the frame, pull the bottom of the sash toward you and release it from the frame track. To reinsert the sash, merely reverse these instructions.

Casement Windows:

Casement windows are attached to a frame by one or more hinges on one side and can be opened and closed by using a crank handle. To operate and clean, raise the lock up on the vertical edge of the window. Open the window by turning the crank handle clockwise, rotating the handle as far as possible, to have easy access to the window for cleaning. The screen can be removed by rotating the latches on the edges of the screen and until they are free from the vertical groove. The screen can be reinstalled by rotating the latches to secure them in the vertical track.

Speak to a Window Supplier at Acadia Windows & Doors If You Seek Window Maintenance

Windows are an essential part of any home, building or establishment—that is why it is important to have an understanding of the basic parts of a window as well as what decisions to make when a window malfunctions. The window suppliers at Acadia Windows & Doors service the windows they manufacture and encourage you to become an Acadia customer so you too can experience the superior quality of service that comes with owning an Acadia product. The window suppliers at Acadia Windows & Doors “Never Settle,” and have decades of experience fixing, maintaining and replacing commercial and residential windows. If you seek a reliable window supplier to fix or replace your windows, contact us today.