Have you ever seen buildings with different shaped windows? They’re striking, right? In older buildings, some of the frames around the windows have designs and architectural structures that date back to medieval times.
In modern society, the outside frames of windows are sleeker in design with little to no detailing. Windows on buildings, particularly office blocks, have been glazed over so the events happening inside aren’t visible to the outside world. Window repairs have also changed significantly over the years as buildings have larger and more elaborate window shapes.
No matter what type of windows your home or your office block has, they are the soul of any construction.
Some people do their own window designs and construction. But if you’re not a DIY type person you can always opt for a professional company like Van Isle residential glass repair for window maintenance.
No matter which of the windows discussed below your building has, make sure you have a pro on your side when it’s time to repair them.
The History Behind Window Construction
In the 13th century, a window was an unglazed opening in a roof that served as a light source during the day. Over the years windows were covered using animal hide, wood or cloth. Subsequently, shutters were invented, possibly for privacy or to keep bugs or animals from entering a home.
The Romans were the first civilization to use glass for their windows, which were most likely first produced in Roman Egypt in Alexandria ca. 100 AD. Modern style windows became possible after the industrial plate glass process was perfected.
4 Types of Architectural Windows
Eyebrow
An eyebrow design is a curved top window in a wall or in an eyebrow dormer (also known as a roof eyebrow). It’s a dormer that’s shaped in the style of waves and protrudes through the slope of a roof or wall.
Cross Window
The design of a cross window is in the shape of a rectangle that’s divided into four lights by a mullion (vertical bar between panes of glass in a window) that forms a Latin cross. The cross window design was quite common in the 14th century and is still used in some homes today.
Fixed Window
Fixed windows are designed not to be opened. They’re integrated into a building only to provide light during the day. Churches usually use fixed windows as these glass panes have religious designs and symbols displayed on the surface of the glass. Moving them may damage the designs, so it’s better that they stay closed.
Single-Hung Sash
This type of window design has one sash that is movable (usually the bottom sash) while the top is fixed. The design is the earliest form of the sliding sash window which is also inexpensive, making it quite popular.
Tips for Window Architecture and Décor
Try the following tips to make your home more welcoming:
- Crown molding is an extended frame integrated on door frames, ceilings and even windows. Adding crown molding to the frames of your windows makes your rooms look complete and it gives your home an elegant appearance.
- Selecting the correct color paint is essential for the inside and outside of your home, particularly when you’re framing windows. Pick a color that accentuates the shape and feel of your house.
- Window treatments are an inexpensive way to add style to the inner and outer parts of a building. Some people opt for a mirror glaze on the outside of the windows, which creates a one-way glass. Glazing on windows helps with privacy without using curtains inside the home.
Use the above tips to make your home resemble the homes you find on the covers of magazines. Next time you renovate, design elaborate windows to make your home stand out from the rest.
