Window Parts and Accessories

{{Infobox
|title = Window Accessories and Parts
|image        = [[File:Space holder.jpg|215px|alt= Replacement Window Accessories and Parts]]
|header5 = Other Names:
|data6   = Replacement Window Accessories and Parts
|header7 = Description:
|data8   = Additional window parts and accessories can add to a window's aesthetic appearance as well as to its function and energy efficiency}}

A window's frame and sash cannot function properly without additional window parts. These parts include hardware and other parts which enhance a window's weather resistance and thermal performance and allow the window to operate smoothly. In addition, window accessories including storm windows, grilles and screens provide both useful and decorative additions to a window's design and utility. Window parts and accessories may be purchased in conjunction with a replacement window or as a separate purchase. 

== Window Frame and Sash ==
Basic components of a window [[Window Framing Materials|frame]] and [[Window Sashes|sash]] include the window rail, stile, [[Window Grilles#Muntin_Bars|muntins]], [[Interior Window Trim|catch, casing]], [[panes| Overview Replacement Windows#Glazing_Options]], side jamb, [[Window Balance System| sash pulleys, sash cord, sash weights]] and [[Window Sills| stool, apron, outer sill  and sill horn]]. 

== Additional Window Parts ==
In addition to these basic components, in order for a window to function properly and provide the weather resistance and energy efficiency that the homeowner expects it needs proper handles, cranks, locking mechanisms, weatherstripping, spacer bars and screens. Older windows or [[Single Pane Windows|single glazed windows]] may also have a storm window inserted into the window frame for instances of severe weather. 

These parts include components of windows which are made of any window framing material including [[Wood Windows|wood]], [[Wood Clad Windows|wood clad]], [[Composite Windows|composite]], [[fiberglass windows|fiberglass]], [[Aluminum Windows|aluminum]] and [[Vinyl Windows|vinyl]]. 

=== Hardware ===
Window hardware includes the [[Window Cranks|cranks]], [[Window Handles |handles]] and locks that are used to operate the windows properly. 

==== Window Cranks ====
Window cranks are used to crank open a hinged window such as a [[Casement Windows|casement]], [[Awning  Windows|awning]], [[Hopper Windows|hopper]] or [[Garden Windows|garden]] window. The cranks can be installed in multiple ways which, depending on the installation. will enable the crank to operate so that the window opens either inwardly or outwardly. There are also specific tilt-turn cranks. Cranks are available in a variety of die-cast metals including chrome, stainless steel, bronze, polished brass or a cost-efficient alternative -- hard plastic. They can be attached to windows which are constructed of any material.

==== Window Handles ====
[[Window Handles|Window handles]] are attached to [[Horizontal Sliding Windows|horizontal]] or [[Vertial Sliding Windows|vertical]] sliding windows to slide, push or pull a window open or closed. Window handles' designs vary widely, from decorative to purely functional, and include stainless steel, chrome, brass, bronze and hard plastic materials. Exterior handles must be manufactured with a durable material that will stand up to the weather elements.  Special handles operate multi-point locking systems to lock the window automatically when it closes. There are also specific handles for [[Tilt Turn Windows|tilt-turn]] and [[Tilt Slide Windows|tilt-slide]] windows.

=== Window Locks ===
Window locks are essential to secure a home from intruders. Various locking mechanisms are appropriate with different [[Types of Windows|window types]] while other locking mechanisms are only suitable for one specific type of window. 

==== Bolt Lock ====
Bolt locks are suitable for casement windows. The lock operates with a key by sliding the bolt into a metal cup that mounts within the window sill. 

==== Screw Lock ====
A screw lock involves a screw which is driven horizontally into the top of the upper track of a sliding window to keep intruders from lifting the window sash out of its track. The horizontal position of the screw ensures that the window will not slide.

==== Slip Lock ====
Several companies make slip locks for sliding windows. A stop slips over the track of the window and when the homeowner turns the thumbscrew or the lever, the window locks. When the lever is turned the other way, the window can slide freely.

==== Key Track Stop Lock ====
A key track stop involves a locking stop for a sliding window that attaches onto the track. It can be positioned to lock the window shut or allow the window to open only a specific amount to enable ventilation and maintain security. 

==== Locking Pin Lock ====
A locking pin lock is suitable for double hung windows. The pin goes through one sash and secures it to the second sash, preventing intruders from lifting the sash. There are two types of locking pin locks including a lock in which the pins screw through a hole and a lock in which a special key is used to drive the pin in and out. 

==== Ventilating Locks ====
Special ventilating locks allow homeowners to open the top sash of a double hung window enough to ventilate the room but not enough to allow an intruder to enter. The lock's pin strikes a plate that is screwed into the other sash. The homeowner can decide at exactly what opening width to open the window by setting the pin accordingly. When the pin slides back around the corner the window can be fully raised. 

==== Hinged Wedge Lock ====
A hinged wedge lock can be nailed into the window track of a double-hung window to secure the window. The wedge can be moved to open the window and allow in ventilation as needed. The window will rise as far as the wedge's location when the wedge is secured in place. The window can open freely to any height when the wedge is removed.  

==== Turnbuckle Latch ====
A keyed turnbuckle latch requires that a lever be squeezed while the latch turns with a key. This type of lock is especially useful as a childproof lock.

==== Keyed Sash Locks ====
Keyed sash locks mount to the side of a double hung window and require a key to open the window. 
==== Folding Locks ====
Folding locks mount on the top of a double-hung window, permitting the window to open slightly. The window can only open fully when the lock is folded inward.  
== Window Accessories --
The addition of [[Window Grilles|window grilles]] to a window adds a unique and attractive design element to the window and to the room in which the window is installed. 
  
=== Installation Options ===
Different grille installation options are available for varying requirements and situations.

==== Installed Grilles ====
Window grilles may be installed in between the panes of a [[Double Pane Window|double glazed]] or [[Triple Pane Window|triple glazed]] window. This installation is permanent. The grilles do not protrude from the glass and do not interfere with window cleaning.

==== Clip On Grilles ====
Clip on grilles can be included in any window frame which has been constructed to accommodate the grille's clips. These clips adhere to the window frame so the frame must have insert holes to which the clips can hold. Clip on grilles can be removed when cleaning the window. The clips can rust, necessitating periodic replacement clips.

==== Muntin Bars ====
Muntins are bars separate and hold panes of glass within a window frame. They look like window grilles but are actually [[Multi-Lit-Windows|multi lit windows]] in which separate glass panes bond together to form one large window. Muntin grilles enhance a security and safety by creating a block against intruders. They also a large plate of glass from shattering in  the event that the window breaks.

=== Grille Styles ====
Deciding which type of grille to include in a window is often based on the architectural design of the room in which it will be featured. Styles include geometric curves and shapes and combinations of the two. Some grille frames are curved while the interior lines are geometric lines while others combine curves and lines together within a grille frame of any shape. 
Window grilles can be formed to meet any [[Special Shape Window|window shape]] including triangles, pentagons, chords, circles, elliptical, eyebrows, arch heads, octagons, trapezoids and more. Grille styles are available for Cathedral, Elegant, Heritage, Colonial, Prairie, Diamond, Classic, Traditional, Victorian, Cottage, Oriel, Trellis and other home designs. 
== Window Screens ==
Quality [[Window Screens|window screens]] often make the difference between the ability to open an [[Operating Window|operating window]] or not. Windows with good screens prevent debris, insects and even, sometimes, wandering animals from entering a home. Replacement windows include screens as part of the window order. The screen fits snugly into the frame's track to enable ventilation while ensuring that insects and other debris cannot enter the room.  
In general the screen fits into the exterior of a window's frame but for outswing hinged windows, the screen is installed into the inner part of the frame. 
=== Screen materials ===
Screens may be produced using various types of materials including bronze, nylon, stainless steel, metal, mesh and fiberglass. In addition to the availability of each type of material, homeowners must consider which type of screen will meet the needs of their particular climate. Denser screen materials can reduce the [[Solar Heat Gain Coefficient|solar heat gain coefficient]] and [[Visible Transmittance|visible transmittance]] in extremely hot or sunny climates while bronze and other non-corrosive materials are suggested for salty-air regions. 
== Weatherstripping ==
[[Window Weatherstripping|Weatherstripping]] seals the air leaks that exist around an operating window. The weatherstripping prevents air from penetrating the gaps that surround a window. Weatherstripping options include tension seals, felt seals, reinforced vinyl seals, reinforced foam seals, taped seals, wiper/brush seals and magnet seals. The type of weatherstripping to use will depend on the window's framing material, the local climate and expected wear and tear on the weatherstripping.  
== Spacer Bars ==
Spacer bars are laid at the bottom of a window sash, in between the panes of a multi-pane window. The spacer bar prevents moisture condensation from developing between the pellets of [[Silica Desiccant|silica desiccant]] which are located within the spacer bar's aluminum perimeter strip.
The silica desiccant absorbs moisture that results from any incoming air that enters the area between the panes. 
== Storm Windows ==
[[Storm Windows|Storm windows]] are inserted into the window's outer frame, behind the window sash. Storm windows address the problem of leaky windows and prevent drafts from entering a house. Storm windows do not address the issue of a window's thermal insulation capabilities and offer a negligible enhancement of insulating performance.