In the past, window grids were used to keep multi-paned windows together to protect them during shipping, but these days, their uses are far more aesthetic than functional. This means homeowners have a lot of freedom over the arrangement and style of the grids in their windows. Here is a look at how you can choose the right style for your home.
Consider Your Personal Preferences
If it is time to upgrade your windows or you’re looking to change your style but aren’t sure where to begin, take a moment to assess your current windows. Do you like how your home looks with its current grids (or lack of grids)? Does your home have any specific windows that offer particularly attractive views or other considerations that may make a gridless window a better choice?
Once you have decided that you wish to proceed with some type of grid pattern, go for a drive and observe other homes in your neighborhood, paying particular attention to homes that have a similar style to yours. This can give you a better idea of which grid styles appeal to you.
Certain standards may also guide your choice. For example, your homeowners association may have a list of grid patterns from which all homeowners in the neighborhood must choose, while those who live in a historic district may have to adhere to certain rules set by their local historic preservation board.
Colonial Grids
The colonial home style places a heavy emphasis on symmetry. These homes tend to be rectangular and have an even number of windows on each side of the front door on the first and second floors.
In these homes, double-hung windows are the preferred style as their sash offers additional symmetry. These are often adorned with grids that are the same on both sashes, in keeping with the symmetry of colonial homes. If you have this type of home, a popular choice is six square or rectangular grids in each sash.
This is referred to as a six-over-six window. Other another popular variation is the nine-over-nine window with nine square grids. If your sashes cannot have the same number of grids, it is common for the top sash to have more than the bottom in these homes.
Farmhouse Windows
In farmhouse-style homes, groups of big windows, such as single or double-hung windows, are used to provide ventilation and maximize the amount of natural light that enters the home. The trim on these windows tends to be chunkier, while the grids are usually on the simple side. A 4×4 pattern with one muntin dividing the sashes is common, as are two-over-one windows in which a single grill is used in the top sash and none are placed in the bottom sash.
Victorian Windows
With their elaborate detailing, Victorian homes are one of the few architectural styles in which asymmetry is favored. Many Victorian homes feature tall windows that are placed to draw attention to the home’s high peaks. They may even feature panes with different colors of glass.
In these homes, diamond grill patterns and small square grids arranged in a border around a bigger piece of glass are favored by many homeowners. Another approach to consider is two-over-two grill patterns.
Craftsman Windows
In a Craftsman home, double-hung windows are the style of choice with grills placed just in the top sash, leaving the bottom one unobstructed. For the top sash, four or six rectangular grids are the most popular arrangements, while window combinations might feature a transom window that has a square grill spanning the tops of the other windows.
Prairie Windows
Prairie window grids offer something different from the symmetrical look of colonial-style windows. They feature grids that overlap and run along the glass’s edge, which allows a larger portion of the window to remain unobstructed. With this grid pattern, there may be small squares in the window’s corners. Prairie window grids are a popular choice for Craftsman homes as well.
Removable Grids
If you are struggling to decide which window grid style will work best for your home, removable window grids are an excellent option that provide you with more flexibility. These grids attach on the inside of the glass, making the windows easy to clean and allowing you to change your style without replacing the window. If you are not sure which grid pattern you prefer, this is a great way to avoid making a permanent commitment.
Discuss Your Project With The Experienced Window Replacement Team At Adelphia Exteriors
Whether your windows are damaged or outdated or you are simply looking to refresh your home’s look, the team in Adelphia Exteriors can help you find the right window and grid style to meet your needs and budget. Contact us online today to request a free window replacement estimate and find out more about our window services.