Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "S"

Safety Glass

A strengthened or reinforced glass that is less subject to breakage or splintering.  Also called tempered glass.

Sash

The portion of a window that you open and close.

Screen

Woven mesh of metal, plastic, or fiberglass stretched over a window opening to permit air to pass through, but not insects.  Screens come standard with UniShield windows.

Sealant

A compressible plastic material used to seal any opening or junction of two parts, such as between the glass and a vinyl sash, commonly made of silicone, butyl tape, or polysulfide.

Sill

The ledge on the front of the interior of the window

Single-Hung Window

A window consisting of two sashes of glass but only the bottom sash opens.  The top sash always stays stationary and cannot be opened for air flow

Sliding Glass Door

A door fitted with one or more panels that move on rollers horizontally on a track and/or in grooves.  Also called a patio door.

Sliding Window / Slider window

A window fitted with one or more sashes opening by sliding horizontally.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

The fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window or skylight, both directly transmitted, and absorbed and subsequently released inward. The solar heat gain coefficient has replaced the shading coefficient as the standard indicator of a window's shading ability. It is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits, and the greater its shading ability. SHGC can be expressed in terms of the glass alone or can refer to the entire window assembly.

Super Spacer

Glass spacing system made of a structural foam that keeps the edge of the glass warmer.   The foam does not transmit heat or cold through the window, and it is flexible enough to move with the entire glass package allowing the seal to hold significantly longer than metal or aluminum spacers.

 

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Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

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*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.