Window Sashes and the Character of a Building in Indianapolis

The window sash is the material that directly holds and outlines the glass portion of your window. Depending on the style of window, the sash may slide up and down in your window frame, or it may be mounted on hinges to open like a door — as is the case with casement windows. The style of your window sashes plays a big role in forming the character of your building. Here are five elements of window sash character and how they contribute to the design of your Indianapolis home.

1. Window Sash Proportions

When it comes to tall, rectangular, double-hung windows — as are seen in most homes — the proportion of the two sashes relative to one another helps shape your home’s character. If the upper sash is smaller than the lower sash, this tends to give the building a more charming, cozy appeal as those seen on cottage homes and some rustic Indianapolis homes. Window sashes of even sizes are more common and are characteristic of more modern homes, and also many famous architectural styles like Craftsman and Victorian-era design.

2. Thickness of Window Sashes

Thinner sashes give a window, and the home in general, a more delicate appearance. A thin sash leaves more space for glass, so a bit more sunlight can shine into your home. Thicker sashes keep a home a little dimmer, and they give the home a more closed-off, chunky appearance. You’ll see thinner sashes on contemporary homes and thicker sashes on more traditional homes. New window sash materials, like Fibrex® from Renewal by Andersen, are stronger and can therefore be made thinner than wooden window sashes. However, if you prefer a thicker sash, you can still opt for thicker sashes made from new, more durable materials.

3. Edge Detail of Check Rails

The check rail is the piece of sash that comes across the middle of the double-hung windows. The way the edge of this check rail is shaped influences the window’s character. Blunt checkrails have a more traditional look while those with a rounded edge look more modern. You definitely want a blunt rail with a Craftsman or rustic home, but a sleek, artsy home calls for rounded check rails.

4. Inclusion of Grilles

Sometimes grilles are attached to the sashes to visibly divide the window panes into smaller sections. Grilles that evenly divide the top and bottom sashes into six portions give your Indianapolis home a country-like appeal. Those that only divide the sash horizontally have a very modern, minimalist appeal. On a Craftsman home, you’ll usually see the upper sash with a grille dividing the window into four portions but no grille on the lower sash.

5. Window Sash Color

Contrary to popular belief, not all window sashes are white. White does give a home a crisp, country look. However, a more brightly colored sash in rust-red, navy blue, or even hunter green can give your home a more unique, artistic look. Natural wood sashes are also a great choice for a rustic or Craftsman home.

Are you unsure of which window sash design is right for your Indianapolis home? Contact Renewal by Andersen to schedule a free, in-home consultation. We can analyze your home’s style and recommend the window sash color, shape, and grille elements that are best for you.

Topics: Indianapolis homes, window sashes