PGT Industries - Glossary

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Glossary of Terms
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1/3 1/3 1/3	Configuration of an equally divided three panel or three lite unit.
1/4 1/2 1/4	Configuration of an unequally divided three panel or three lite unit where the center area is twice the width of the outer area.
A
AAMA	American Architectural Manufacturers Association. A national trade association that establishes voluntary standards for the window, door, storefront, curtain wall and skylight industries.
Above grade	A term applied to any part of a structure or site feature that is above the adjacent finished ground level.
Absorptance	A materials ability to absorb radiant energy.
Acrylic	(Plastic) A non-crystalline thermoplastic sometimes used for glazing.
Active solar energy system	A system which requires the importation of energy from outside of the immediate environment: eg, energy to operate fans and pumps.
Add-a-flange	Optional extrusion piece that is added to the existing flange. Usually used in mobile home installation.
Adhesion	A materials ability to stick or bond to the surface to which it is applied.
Adhesive failure	The inability of a material to remain adhered to the surface on which it was applied.
Aerosol	A gaseous suspension of small particles of a liquid or a solid.
Air chambers	Small honeycomb spaces within the sash and frame which help to insulate and strengthen the window (also referred to as air cavities).
Air infiltration	The amount of air leakage through a door, window, or wall; the lower the number the better. Standard for measurement is ASTM-E283.
Air latch	Latch mechanism on the interior face of the sash that retains the window in a partially open position for ventilation (aka night latch).
Air space	A cavity or space in walls, windows or other enclosed parts of a building between various structural members. Usually used in reference to IG glass issues.
Air tightness	The ability of a house envelope to resist infiltration and exfiltration of air.
Anchorage	The method or type of fastening system used to install the product to its substrate.
Angle of incidence	The angle that the sun's rays make with a line perpendicular to a surface. The angle of incidence determines the percentage of direct sunshine intercepted by a surface.
Annealed glass	Standard sheet of float glass which has not been heat-treated.
Anodize	To provide an extremely hard non-corrosive oxide film on the surface of aluminum, by electrolytic action. The electrochemical process produces an anodic coating by conversion of aluminum into essentially aluminum oxide. Appearance depends upon both the alloy involved and the surface preparation. Anodic coatings may be transparent, of varying shades of silver, gray or brown, or colors may be incorporated by the use of dyes or pigments.
ANSI	American National Standards Institute - an organization that generates standards and specifications for a multitude of products.
Anti-lift stop	A metal or plastic piece inserted into the frame head that prevents the sash from being removed from a horizontal roller when in the closed position.
Apron	A trim piece (usually interior) mounted below the stool or windowsill.
Arch top	A single hung window where the head is curved into a radius equal to 1/2 the window width.
Architectural shaped windows	Fixed glass geometric shaped windows.
Argon gas	Argon is a safe, odorless, colorless, non-toxic, non-flammable inert gas that is commonly used in place of air between the glass panes of an insulated Low-E glass unit to reduce temperature transfer.
ASCE	American Society of Civil Engineers (national code)
ASTM	American Society for testing and Materials - an organization that sets standards for testing of materials.
Astragal	The vertical member of a multi-panel door, which is attached to the fixed or inactive door or panel and receives the active or operating door or panel.
Atrium	An enclosed interior court, of one or more levels high, on to which other rooms may open.
Awning window	Window in which the sash(es) crank out from the bottom and are hinged at the top.
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B
Back bedding	The seal between the glass and the glazing bed.
Balance	A mechanical device used in hung windows to offset the weight of the sash.
Balance shoe	Hardware that connects the balance to the sash.
Bay window	An angled combination of three windows that project out from the wall of the home. The windows are commonly joined at 30 or 45 degree angles.
Bead	A sealant or compound after application in a joint, irrespective of the method of application, such as caulking bead, glazing bead, etc. Also molding or stop used to hold glass or panels in position.
Beam	A horizontal structural member, usually wood, steel or concrete, supported at two or more points, but not throughout its length.
Beam pocket	A notch formed at the top of a wall to receive and support the end of a beam.
Bearing wall	A wall that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight.
Bed or bedding	The bead of a compound applied between a lite of glass or a panel and the permanent stop or sight bar of the sash or frame, and usually the first bead of compound to be applied when setting glass or panes.
Bevel	The stopping surface formed when two surfaces meet at an angle which is not a right angle.
Beveled exterior	An angled extension from the frame that adds an aesthetically pleasing dimension to the exterior of the window.
Beveled or bead	Bead or compound applied so as to have a slanted top surface so water will drain away from the glass or panel.
Billet	A cylinder of metal used in the extrusion process.
Bite	Amount of overlap between the top of a stop and the inserted edge of a panel of lite of glass; also the amount of overlap of a heel bead into the glass or panel.
Block frame window	Used when replacing the wood sash of an old double hung wood window.
BOCA	Building Officials and Code Administrators
Bond breaker	A release type of material (such as polyethylene film sheet with adhesive on one side) used to prevent adhesion of the sealant to the back-up material or back of the joint. Used in expansion joints or splice joints.
Bore	The holes made in a door rim into which the door handle or dead bolt fits. Also referred to as the prep.
Bottom plate	The lower horizontal member of a wood-frame wall nailed to the bottom of the wall studs and to the floor framing members.
Bottom rail	The bottom horizontal member of a sash or panel sometimes referred to as the sash, vent or panel sill.
Bow window	An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance.
Box screen	A heavy duty sliding glass door screen frame that simulates the actual glass panels. It is typically similar in size and shape of the glass door panels.
Brace	A diagonal framing member fastened to major horizontal and vertical members to provide a triangle and thereby stiffen the framing.
Breather tubes	A small metal tube that is placed into an insulated unit's spacer to equalize pressure differences. Breather tubes can allow moisture to enter into the insulating unit. Mostly used in high altitude locations.
Brick molding	A standard milled wood trim piece to cover the gap between the window and frame and masonry.
Brick veneer	A facing of brick tied to a wood frame or masonry wall, serving as a wall covering only and carrying no structural loads.
Brittany	Muntin configuration that frames a single centered large lite and intersects near corners. Also known as Prairie Grid.
BTU	An abbreviation of British Thermal Units that defines the amount of head needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit.
Buck	Material used to frame an opening for attachment of the window or door frame.
Buck dimension	Opening with buck strips installed and ready for window or door installation. Also referred to as a finished opening.
Buck opening	Opening with buck strips installed and ready for window or door installation. Also referred to as a finished opening.
Buck strips	See Buck
Bug sweep	A flexible rubber seal that is mounted to an extrusion and attaches to the bottom of the cabana door to keep out insects and air from passing underneath.
Built-up roof	A roof covering composed of three or more layers of roofing felt or fiberglass saturated with coal, tar or asphalt. The top is finished with crushed stone, gravel or a cap sheet. Generally used on flat or low-pitched roofs.
Bull nose return	Where the stucco or drywall turns back into the window or doorframe.
Butt-joint	Any joint made by fastening two members together without overlapping.
Butyl	Polyisobutylene is a hot melt sealant and is used as the primary seal for dual seal systems.
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C
Cabana door	A swing type door with several window insert options and uses a z-bar extrusion outer frame. Commonly used in sunrooms.
CABO	Counsel of American Building Officials
Cam lock and keeper	The mechanisms which pull the sash together when placed in the locked position.
Capillary tubes	A very small metal tube which is factory placed into insulated glass to accommodate air pressure differences. Capillary tubes are not sealed after installation.
Casement window	A window in which the sash(es) crank out from the side and are hinged from the other side.
Caulk	A mastic compound for filling joints and sealing cracks to prevent leakage of water and air, commonly made of a silicone base, bituminous, acrylic, or rubber-based material.
CFM	Cubic feet per minute (written ft³/min.). Unit for air flow.
Clerestory pole and adapter	An extension used to attach to the operator of an awning window that is installed above normal reach. Each window has to have the adapter.
Clerestory	A window in the upper part of a lofty room that admits light to the center of the room.
Colonial configuration	Window or door style in which vents or panels are divided into small sections (lites) by adding muntins.
Commodity	Standard sizes developed for Florida Construction in accordance to block sizes. Most commonly used in the masonry trade.
Composite frame	A frame consisting of two or more materials: for example, an interior wood element with an exterior fiberglass element.
Condensation	When water vapor, which is present in all but the driest air, comes in contact with a surface that is below what is called the "dew point temperature," the vapor becomes liquid and is called condensation. An example is as follows, condensation forms on a glass of ice water since the surface of the glass is down to the dew point temperature of the inside air.
Conduction	Process of heat transfer through a material from a warm surface in a cool surface.
Configuration	Describes the setup of panels or vents on windows and doors. For example: XO, OX, XOX or XXX. PGT refers to "X" as operable and "O" as stationary.
Convection	Heat transfer by currents that flow from a warm surface to a colder one.
Corbel	A decorative and often structural brace used to support something such as a bay or bow window.
Corner key	A plastic or steel 90 degree angled piece designed to be inserted into an extrusion to maintain corner alignment.
Cottage window	On a hung window the sash lite is larger than a fixed lite.
Countersink	A tapered indentation that will allow the placement of a flat head screw so that the top is flush with or below the surrounding material.
Cover plate	A flat piece of metal used to cover the opening in the frame.
CRF	Condensation Resistance Factor - an indication of a windows ability to resist condensation. The higher the CRF, the less likely condensation is to occur.
Curing time	The time required to complete the chemical reaction of a product to reach its final physical form as a result of chemical reaction.
Curtain wall	An exterior building wall which carries no roof or floor loads and consists entirely or principally of metal, or a combination of metal, glass and other surfacing materials supported by a metal framework. There are two basic types: Custom - Walls designed specifically for one project, and using parts and details specially made for this purpose. Standard - Walls made up principally of parts and details standardized by their manufacturer and assembled in accord with either the architect's design or the manufacturer's stock patterns.
Custodial lock	Hardware only operable with a key or tool.
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D
D/A	Double Applied - a term used for colonial muntins, it is the raised muntin applied to the exterior and flat bar applied to the interior of a window or door.
Dade County (201)	Protocol for testing windows for impact large or small missile.
Dade County (202)	Protocol for testing windows for air, water and structural.
Dade County (203)	Protocol for testing windows for cyclic.
Debridge	The process of cutting away metal on an extrusion leaving a previously cured polymer bridge (thermal break).
Decibel	A unit for expressing the relative intensity of sounds on a scale from zero for average least perceptible sound to about 130 for the average pain level.
Deglaze	Removing the glass from the window frame.
Degree-day	A unit that represents a 1^o F deviation from some fixed reference point (usually 65^o F) in the mean, daily outdoor temperature.
Desiccant	A material used in insulating glass to prevent water vapor which causes fogging.
Design load	Wind load pressure, usually expressed in pounds per square foot (psf). Equal to 2/3 of the Structural Test Load.
Design pressure	See Design load
Dew point	The temperature at which water vapor in air will condense at a given state of humidity and pressure.
Die	A device used in shaping or stamping an object or material.
Door jamb	see Jamb
Dormer	An opening in a sloping roof, the framing of which projects out to form a vertical wall suitable for windows or other openings.
Double glazing	See IG
Double hung	A window consisting of two sashes of glass operating in a frame, both the upper and lower halves can be slid up and down and usually use a counter balance mechanism to hold the sash in place.
Double strength glass	Sheet glass between 0.115" and 0.133" (3 - 3.38 mm) thick.
Downspout	A pipe, usually of metal or plastic, for carrying rainwater from roof gutters.
Drip cap	A molding placed on the exterior top side of a door or window frame to cause water to drip beyond the outside of the frame or at the bottom of a wall of siding (drip mold).
Dry rot	A fungus that decays wood in the presence of moisture and warm conditions and in the absence of light.
Drywall	(sheet rock) An interior wall constructed with a dry finish such as gypsum board or plywood.
DSB	See Double Strength Glass
Dual-durometer	An elastomeric material with two different degrees of hardness.
Durometer	A test used on elastomeric material to determine hardness.
Dynamic	Elongation or stretching of a material under continuous movement.
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E
E.S.P.	Electrostatic Paint - painting process used to paint aluminum extrusions - the metal is charged negatively and the paint positively to enable total coverage of the surface.
Eave	The lower part of a roof which projects beyond the face of the walls.
Egress	A fire code that requires entry and exit specifications.
Egress bar	An optional bar which connects two locks on a window that opens both locks in a single motion. Specifically designed for the casement and horizontal roller. This will not make a window meet egress (see Egress).
Egress hinge	A hinge on the casement window that pivots closer to the corner and creates a greater clear opening.
Egress opening	See Egress
Egress pin kit	Option for the awning window, comes with 2 metal pins; each is attached to a ring which is put on the vent in place of a screw on vent hanger. This allows for quick removal in an emergency. Check your local building codes.
Egress window	A window that meets most egress codes.
Elasticity	Pliability, ability to take up an expansion and contraction; opposite of brittleness.
Elastomer	An elastic, rubber-like substance which may either occur naturally or be produced synthetically.
Electrochromics	Glazing with optical properties that can be varied continuously from clear to dark with a low-voltage signal. Ions are reversibly injected or removed from an electrochromic material, causing the optical density to change.
Electromagnetic spectrum	Radiant energy over a broad range of wavelengths.
Embossed skin	The bumpy surface covering the styrofoam. Example: kick plate on a cabana door or sunroom panels.
Energy Star^®	ENERGY STAR^® is an independent U.S. government program establishing a standard set of guidelines to recognize the energy efficiency of various products. ENERGY STAR^® guidelines are used in conjunction with a variety of building materials, including windows and patio doors.
EPDM	An elastomeric compound with good resistance to ultra-violet radiation. Good memory and weathering characteristics. Referred to as a synthetic rubber.
Epoxy	A thermoplastic resin formed by combining epichlorohydrin and bisphenols. Requires a curing agent for room temperature or elevated temperature hardening. Has outstanding adhesion, strength and excellent chemical resistance.
Expanded metal	A metal network formed by stamping or cutting sheet-metal and stretching it to form open meshes. It is used as reinforcing in concrete construction and as lath for plastering and stucco.
Exterior glazed	Glass set from the exterior of the building.
Exterior stop	The removable molding or bead that holds the lite or panel in place when it is on the exterior side of the lite or panel as contrasted to an interior stop located on the interior side of the lite or panel.
Extrude	The process of shaping metal by forcing it through a die.
Extruded bead	Bead that is used for exterior or interior glazing (see glass stop).
Extruded screen frame	Screen frame that is made through the extrusion process.
Extrusion	A linear shape that is formed by forcing heated material through a hardened steel plate or dies that has the desired shape cut into it.
Eyebrow window	An arch window that has vertical legs and a radius top.
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F
Face nailing	The practice of fastening a member by driving nails through it at right angles to its exposed surface.
Fascia	Exterior perimeter of the roof just below the roof-line, perpendicular to the overhang.
Fenestration	The placement of window openings in a building wall, one of the important elements in controlling the exterior appearance of a building. Also, a window, door or skylight and its associated interior or exterior elements, such as shades or blinds.
Fiberglass	A composite material made by embedding glass fibers in a polymer matrix. May be used as a diffusing material in sheet form, or as a standard sash and frame element.
Fin seal	A mylar fin that extends outward from pile weatherstripping to reduce air infiltration and improve contact.
Fin tabs	Small pieces of nailing fin extrusion, usually used on curved architectural shapes.
Fire-resistance rating	The time in hours or fraction thereof that a material or assembly of materials will withstand the passage of flame and the transmission of heat when exposed to fire under specified conditions of test and performance criteria. Does not typically apply to residential windows.
Fixed lite	A pane of glass installed directly into non-operating framing members; also the opening or space for a pane of glass in a non-operating frame.
Fixed meeting rail	Frame member attached to the master frame to separate fixed glass or vents.
Fixed panel	An inoperable panel of a sliding glass door.
Fixed vent	An inoperable vent that is secured in the closed position.
Fixed window	A window with no operating sashes.
Flange frame	A window frame profile where the exterior leg is longer than the interior. Is commonly used to overlap the surrounding construction.
Flashing	A thin strip of metal or synthetic material that diverts water away from a seam or joint in the construction.
Flat bar	Flat muntin material used commonly as the interior of a double applied colonial. Can also be used as the exterior colonial.
Float glass	Glass formed by a process of floating the material on a bed of molten metal. It produces a high-optical-quality glass with the parallel surfaces, without polishing and grinding.
Foam backer rod	A filler to be used to support a sealant joint.
Foam tape	An adhesive backed foam tape used as a sealant between two substrates.
Fogged unit	An insulating glass unit with a permanent deposit of contaminates on an interior glass surface.
Footing	The base on which the foundation sits, usually made of concrete.
Foundation	The supporting portion of a structure below the first floor construction, or below grade, including the footings, which transfers the weight of, and loads of the structure to the ground.
Frame	The enclosure in which window sashes, door panels or fixed glazing are mounted.
Frame balloon	A system of framing a building in which all vertical structural elements of the bearing walls and partitions consist of single pieces extending from the top of the foundation sill plate to the roof plate and to which all floor joists are fastened.
Front wall	Wall of a sunroom running the length of the structure between the two side walls.
Frost line	The depth of frost penetration in soil. This depth varies in different parts of the country. Footings should be placed below this depth to prevent movement.
FRP	Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic sheeting
Furring	The strips of wood or metal applied to a wall or other surface to even it and normally to serve as a fastening base for finish material.
Fusion-welded	The process of joining materials by melting them together with extreme heat, resulting in the materials uniting into a one-piece unit.
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G
Gable	The vertical triangular portion of the end of a building having a double-sloping roof from the level of the cornice or eaves to the ridge of the roof.
Gable end	The entire end wall of a house having a gable roof.
Glass fill	A gas other than air, usually argon or krypton, placed between window or skylight glazing panes to reduce the U-factor by suppressing conduction and convection.
Gasket	A preformed shape of rubber or foam-like composition used to fill and seal joints or openings either along or in conjunction with a supplemental application of a sealant.
Gauge	S standard for measuring, e.g. diameter of nails or wire and thickness of metal sheets, etc.
Geometric	Specially designed windows classified as either straight line geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoid, octagons, pentagons, etc., or radius geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Glass	An inorganic transparent material composed of silica (sand), soda (sodium carbonate), and lime (calcium carbonate) with small quantities of alumina, boric or magnesia oxides.
Glass bed	The portion of the window or door extrusion that the glazing is directly adhered to.
Glass bite	The overlap of glass on the glazing bed.
Glass stop	See glazing bead
Glazing	Glass or other material that is placed into a window or door frame, or the process of installing this material.
Glazing bead	A molding or stop placed around a window to cover the glass edge.
Glazing stop	See glazing bead
Glazing tape	Two sided tape used to seal and attach glass to the glazing bed (dry glazing).
Gloss	The measurement of sheen or luster.
Grain	The direction, size, arrangement, appearance, or quality of the fibers in wood.
Greenhouse window	A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf.
Grids	Decorative horizontal or vertical bars installed between the glass panes to create the appearance of the sash being divided into smaller lites of glass. Also referred to as muntins.
Grille	A term referring to windowpane dividers or applied muntins.
Gusset	A strong, concealed, right angle shape used to reinforce mitered corners in tubular aluminum extrusions.
Gutter	A channel or conduit of metal, plastic or wood set below and along the eaves of a house to catch and carry off rainwater from the roof.
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H
Head or header	The horizontal top portion of the main frame.
Head expander	The u-shaped extrusion that closes the gap between the window head and the buck opening, used during installation.
Heat fusion	Welding method used to join two PVC members; consists of heating the PVC extrusions, squeezing together, and allowing assembly to cool.
Heat gain	The transfer of heat from outside to inside by means of conduction, convection and radiation through all surfaces of a house.
Heat loss	Transfer of heat from inside to outside by way of conduction, radiation and convection through all surfaces of the house.
Heat Mirror^TM	Triple-ply insulating glass unit with a polyester internal film having a special coating which reflects heat but allows light to pass through. Trademark of Southwall Technologies, Inc.
Heat transfer	Heat always moves fro hot to cold. It is mainly transferred by three methods: convection, conduction and radiation.
Heat treating	Process by which a material is heated and cooled to make it stronger and harder.
Head-absorbing glass	Process by which a material is heated and cooled to make it stronger and harder.
Heating degree day	Term used by heating and cooling engineers to relate the typical climate conditions of different areas to the amount of energy needed to heat and cool a building. The base temperature is 65 degrees Fahrenheit. A heating degree day is counted for each degree below 65 degrees reached by the average daily outside temperature in the winter. For example, if on a given winter day, the daily average temperature outdoors is 30 degrees, then there are 35 degrees below the base temperature of 65 degrees. Thus, there are 35 heading degree days for that day.
Heat-strengthened glass	Glass that is reheated, after forming, to just below melting point and then cooled, forming a compressed surface that increases its strength beyond that of typical annealed glass.
Hermetically sealed unit	An insulating glass unit that is sealed, moisture free, clean dead air space made up of two lites of glass.
Hinge	A jointed or flexible device on which a door or other swinging part turns.
Hinged egress	An awning or single hung window hinged inside a picture window frame for escape in case of emergency.
Hip	The sloping ridge of a roof formed by two intersecting roof slopes.
Hip roof	A roof that rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building.
Hole plug	A plastic plug used to fill in an opening on the extrusion.
Hollow extrusion	An extrusion with a fully enclosed cavity within it.
Hookstrip	An interlock that attaches to the wall to engage the end moving panel on a pocket door.
Hopper window	A window unit in which the top of the sash swings inward.
Horizontal	Parallel to the horizon, flat and level.
Horizontal 2 or 4 track side slider	Vinyl glazed aluminum framed window with horizontally operating and interlocking sashes.
Horizontal slider	Window whose movable sash slides horizontally.
Humidity	The amount of water vapor in the air.
Humidity: relative	Ratio of amount of moisture in the air to the amount of moisture the air can hold at a given temperature.
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I
I.G. Unit	Insulating glass - Two or more lites of glass separated by a spacer and hermetically sealed at the glass edges.
I.S.L.O.	Inside looking out.
l-Beam	A structural member resembling the letter l.
ICBO	International Conference of Buildings Officials
ICC	International Code Council - A national organization that publishes model codes for adoption by states and other agencies. Codes include the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
IECC	International Energy Conservation Code published by the ICC. The successor to the Model Energy Code, which is cited in the 1992 U.S. Energy Policy Act (EPAct) as the baseline for residential Energy Codes in the United States.
IGCC	Insulating Glass Certification Council.
Impermeable	Not permitting water vapor or other fluid to pass through.
Inclusion	Presence of foreign matter in a finished material, such as glass.
Infrared radiation	Invisible, electromagnetic radiation beyond red light on the spectrum, with wavelengths greater than 0.7 microns. The longer wave lengths in the spectrum.
Insert	Window that is put in place as part of a Cabana door or Prime door; can be several kinds.
Inside glaze	When the window is glazed from the inside of the house.
Inside mount	Mounted from the interior of the home. The standard mount is outside.
Inside snap trim	Used to cover the inside gap between the new window and existing opening in retrofit work.
Insulated shutters	Insulating panels that cover a window opening to reduce heat loss.
Insulating value	See U-factor or R-value
Insulation	Construction materials used for protection from noise, heat, cold or fire.
Inswing	A term used on doors that swing into the interior of the home. Is viewed from the inside for hinging.
Integral fin	Nailing fin protruding from the extrusion that is part of the extrusion (as opposed to an slip-on fin).
Interior casing	The interior trim that covers and overlaps the gap from the jamb to the sheet rock.
Interlock	Design feature which enables sash, vent or panel to engage with another when closing.
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J
J-channel	A channel that receives siding.
Jalousie	A window made up of horizontally mounted louvered slats that abut each other tightly when closed and extend outward when cranked open.
Jalousie door insert	A jalousie window (See Jalousie) mounted within a cabana door.
Jamb	The main vertical members forming the sides of a window or door frame.
Jamb adjusters	Screws that extend outward from the jamb to take up gap in the buck opening.
Jamb liner	In some double-hung windows, the track installed inside the jambs on which the window sashes slide.
Jamb plugs	Screw hole covers made of plastic.
Joist	One of a series of horizontal wood members, usually 50 mm (2 inches) nominal thickness, used for support. (e.g. floor joist, ceiling joist or roof joist.) A parallel beam used to support floor and ceiling loads, and supported in turn by larger beams, girders, or bearing walls.
Joist hanger	A steel section shaped like a stirrup, bent so it can be fastened to a beam to provide end support for joists, headers, etc.
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K
K.D.	Knocked Down - product components that are shipped unassembled i.e. the frame for a sliding glass door.
Keeper	Device into which a window or patio door locking latch hooks for positive closure of sash or panel.
Keeper rail	The horizontal section of the sash where the keeper is attached.
Keeper stile	The vertical section of the sash where the keeper is attached.
Kerf	A groove, or cut, in a material i.e. weatherstripping channel.
Knee wall	A short wall below the glazing on all or some of the exterior walls.
Krypton gas	An inert, odorless, colorless, tasteless, nontoxic gas which is about 12 times denser than air. It is used to replace air between the glass panes to reduce temperature transfer and deter convection. Used when a higher performance is desired than that produced with Argon gas.
KWH	Kilowatt Hour. Unit of energy or work equal to one thousand watt-hours.
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L
Laminated glass	Two or more pieces of glass bonded together with an interlayer between each lite. Used for overhead, safety and sound reduction.
Leeward	The side (or sides) of a house which face away from the prevailing winds.
Lift handle	A handhold for raising and lowering the sash. Handle implies that the handhold is not continuous across the sash.
Lift out dead lite	Same as lip frame but has no flange.
Lift rail	A handhold for raising and lowering the sash. Rail implies that the handhold is continuous across the sash.
Linear foot	A measurement of width plus height (in inches) x 2 divided by 12.
Lip frame	Vinyl or screen glazed light-duty fixed aluminum frame (manually removable or permanent).
Lite	An area of visible light, framed by either a window or door's primary extrusions or by muntins.
Lock box	A plastic box placed in the stile, into which the strike plate screws are attached on a French door.
Lock rail	The horizontal section of the sash where the cam lock is attached.
Lock stile	The vertical section of the sash or panel where the lock is attached.
Low-E (Emissivity) Glass	Glass with a transparent metallic oxide coating applied onto or into a glass surface. The coating typically allows short-wave energy to pass through but reflects long-wave infrared energy which improves the U-value.
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M
Main frame	The head, sill and jambs section of a window and or door.
Marine glazing	U-channel made of soft PVC used to cushion glass against aluminum or vinyl by wrapping it around the edge of the glass therefore allowing unrestricted expansion and contraction.
Masonry opening	Actual block opening – not including the buck strips. Also referred to as the rough opening.
Mechanically fastened frame	Refers to frames that are not welded or molded, typically a screw assembly.
Mesh	Fabric made of either fiberglass or aluminum, used in the making of screens.
MIL	One-thousandth of an inch, or 0.0254 millimeters.
Mill finish	Original finish produced on aluminum when it is extruded or cold rolled.
Miter joint	A joint formed by fitting together two pieces cut at angles to form a corner.
Mitered corners	Angled joints where vertical members meet horizontal members.
Mock-up	A model of a section of a wall or its parts, built to scale or at full size, for purposes of studying its construction details, judging its appearance, and/or testing its performance.
Model Energy Code (MEC)	The Model Energy Code is cited in the 1992 U.S. Energy Policy Act (EPAct) as the baseline for residential Energy Codes in the United States. It has been succeeded by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) published by the International Code Council (ICC).
Modular	Standard window and door sizes given in feet and inches.
Monolithic	Referred to as single unit of glass (not insulated).
Mortise lock	A lock that is recessed in the edge of a stile and has a throw hook that engages with a keeper.
Mull clip	A clip designed to anchor a mullion into an opening.
Mullion / mull	A member that connects two or more windows or doors together in a single opening.
Multiple chambered frame	Frame member which has multiple core construction to provide strength and insulation.
Muntin	A decorative lineal that an be applied to the exterior, interior, and in between panes of glass to simulate a true divided lite window or door.
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N
Nailing fin / nail fin	An integral extension of a window or patio door frame which generally laps over the conventional stud construction and through which nails or screws are used to secure the frame in place.
Negative pressure	Load placed to the interior of the product.
Neoprene	Synthetic rubber having physical properties closely resembling those of natural rubber - weather and temperature resistant, ultraviolet stability.
NFRC	National Fenestration Rating Counsel
Night latch	Hardware which restricts the sash opening to a predetermined dimension when extended.
Nominal size	The ordinary commercial size by which timber or lumber is known and sold on the market, but it may differ from the actual size. (The nearest whole number size) Also a 'Call out size' measured in feet and inches (i.e.2-4 x 5-0) for windows and doors, where the window or door's actual size is usually less than the nominal size.
Notch	A contoured cut out in a component.
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O
"O"	Indicates a fixed section of a door or window. (O, OX, XO, XOX)
O/C, on center	The measurement of spacing from the center of one member to the center of the next.
O.S.L.I.	Outside Looking In
Obscure glass	Glass that has been made translucent instead of transparent.
Operable window	Window that can be opened for ventilation.
Operator	Crank-operated device for opening and closing a window.
Oriel	Another name for our Pro-View window.
Outside glaze	Glazed from the exterior side of the window or door.
Outside mount	Mounted from the exterior of the home.
Outswing	A term used on doors that swing to the outside or exterior of the home. Is viewed from the outside for hinging.
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P
Palladian window	A large, arch-top window flanked by smaller windows on each side.
Panel	A frame with glass that goes into a larger “main frame” of a door. A panel may be sliding or fixed.
Panning	In replacement window work, the outside aluminum trim that can extend around the perimeter of the window opening; used to cover up the old window material. Panning can be installed in the opening before the window, or can be attached directly to the window before installation.
Parting stop	A narrow strip, either integral or applied, that holds a sash or panel in position in a frame.
Pass thru	Single Hung window without a main frame sill; has a cap piece with foam that fits onto the sash sill.
Patio door	A secondary door, not the primary door.
Perimeter	The outside edge around a unit.
Permanent set	Amount by which a material fails to return to its original form after being deformed by an applied force or load.
Picture window	A window that has no moveable sash.
Pivot bar	Attaches the sash to the balance shoe, creating alignment between the sash and frame, while allowing the sash to tilt inward for cleaning.
Plumb	The state of being exactly perpendicular, vertical.
Pocket door	Sliding glass door that when opened slides clear of the opening.
PVC	Polyvinylchloride; an extruded or molded plastic material used for window framing and as a thermal barrier for aluminum windows.
Positive pressure	Load placed to the exterior of the product.
Prep	Used in reference to holes that get bored or punched on a door.
Prime door	Cabana door with French door frame (no z bar).
Pro-View	A window that has a sash smaller than the fixed lite also called an oriel.
Projected window	A window with a sash that opens out from the bottom.
PSF	Pounds per square foot (lbs/ft2)
PSI	Pounds per square inch
Pull rail	A handhold for sliding the sash back and forth. Rail implies that the handhold is continuous across the sash.
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Q
Q-Ion	Brand name for a type of weatherstripping with foam inside and vinyl outer layer.
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R
R-value	Measurement of Resistance to heat gain or loss the higher the number the greater the resistance to heat flow.
Rabbet	Two sided L-shape recess in sash or frame to take in lites or panels (glazing bed).
Radiation	Wave energy transmitted directly from one object to another through the atmosphere or through transparent or translucent materials. The energy radiated is transmitted, absorbed, reflected or a combination of all three.
Radiation, ultra violet (UV)	Electromagnetic radiation, usually from the sun, that consists of wavelengths shorter than the violet end of the visible spectrum (less than 0.15 microns). Five percent of the sun's radiation is emitted in the ultra-violet band.
Radius top window	A SH shaped like an architectural eyebrow, comes to a point where head and jambs meet.
Rail	The top and bottom horizontal members of a window sash or panel.
Raised muntin	A decorative lineal that can be applied to the exterior, interior, and in between panes of glass to simulate a true divided lite on a window or door.
Reflectance	The ratio of reflected radiant energy to incident radiant energy.
Reflective glass	Glass which reduces solar radiant energy and visible light with a metallic coating applied onto/into glass surface.
Refraction	The deflection of a light ray from a straight path when it passes at an oblique angle from one medium (such as air) to another (such as glass).
Reinforcement	A steel or aluminum bar that is inserted into a hollow extrusion to add strength.
Resfen	A computer program used to calculate energy use based on window selection in residential buildings.
Retrofit	Window or door replacement, change out, or remodel.
Reveal	Clearance or spacing between components in an assembly.
Roll form bead	A glazing bead (or glass stop) that is made from roll formed sheet metal.
Roll formed screen frame	A screen frame that is made from a roll formed sheet metal.
Rough opening	An unfinished opening in a frame wall, sized to accept the frame of a door or window.
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S
S/A	Single Applied colonial – raised muntin applied to the exterior glass surface.
Saddle threshold	The two sloping surfaces meeting in a horizontal ridge. The saddle threshold is used for an inswing door or can be used in ADA handicapped installations.
Safety glass	A strengthened or reinforced glass that is less subject to breakage or splintering.
Sash	A single assembly of stiles and rails made into a frame for holding glass. Sometimes referred to as vents.
Sash stop	A metal or plastic piece in the jamb track which limits the travel of the sash on windows.
Sash guides	A plastic piece that is placed in the top of the sash stile to prevent the sash head from rubbing against the balance.
SBCCI	Southern Building Code
Screen clip	A metal spring clip that holds a screen in place.
Screen	Woven mesh of metal, plastic, or fiberglass installed over a window opening to permit air to pass through.
Screw boss	A channel or void in an extrusion which accepts a certain diameter sheet metal screw.
Screw channel	See screw boss
Screw-on bead or stop	Stop, bead, or molding attached by machine screws.
Sealant	Compound used to close or secure a joint from water infiltration.
Setting blocks	Use of small blocks made of neoprene or plastic to distribute weight of glass. Also can be used as an aid in centering glass and prevents glass to metal contact.
SFBC	South Florida Building Code
SGCC	Safety Glazing Certification Council - tests tempered glass and holds a certification program.
Shading coefficient (SC)	A measure of the ability of a window or skylight to transmit solar heat, relative to that ability for 1/8-inch clear, double- strength, single glass. It is being phased out in favor of the solar heat gain coefficient, and is approximately equal to the SHGC multiplied by 1.15. It is expressed as a number without units between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain coefficient or shading coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits, and the greater is its shading ability.
Sheathing	The material covering the house frame on the exterior.
Shed roof	A sloping roof having its surface in one plane.
Sheet glass	A transparent, flat glass found in older windows, now largely replaced by float glass.
Shims	Small pieces of material used to secure the window or door unit in the rough or masonry opening in a square, level and plumb position during and after installation.
Short-wave infrared radiation	Invisible radiation, just beyond red light on the electromagnetic spectrum (between 0.7 and 2.5 microns), emitted by hot surfaces and included in solar radiation.
Sidelite	Fixed units mulled or joined to the side of a door to give a more open appearance.
Side slider window	A window where the sash moves horizontally from side to side. Also can be referred to as a horizontal roller.
Sill	The main horizontal member forming the bottom of the frame of a window or a sliding door.
Sill extender	An extrusion that is attached to the bottom of the window to cover the gap between the sill and the rough opening.
Sill pan	A type of flashing used to ensure that incidental water that penetrates the building envelope will be collected and allowed to drain.
Sill plate	A structural member anchored to the top of a foundation wall, upon which the floor joists rest.
Simulated divided lites	A window that has the appearance of a number of smaller panes of glass separated by muntins, but actually is a larger glazing unit with the muntins placed between or on the surfaces of the glass layers.
Single glazing	Single thickness of glass in a window or door.
Single hung window	Window in which the upper portion is fixed and the lower portion moves vertically.
Single strength glass	Glass with a thickness of approximately 3/32".
Slab	The actual door of a French door or Cabana door; also known as the rim.
Slide bolt	Hardware placed in the stiles of a French door to secure the inactive door to the header and threshold. Also known as the throw bolt.
Side slider	Horizontal sliding window.
Sliding glass door	A door fitted with one or more panels that move horizontally.
Slip-on fin	Optional piece of nailing fin material that goes all the way around the parameter of the window. Available in mill finish only.
Sloped sill	The sill of the window that has a downward slope to the outside. This sill has sufficient degree of slope to aid in water runoff.
Solar energy	Energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation received from the sun.
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 it's shading ability. SHGC can be expressed in terms of the glass alone or can refer to the entire window assembly.
Solar radiation	The total radiant energy from the sun, including ultraviolet and infrared wave lengths as well as visible light.
Solar spectrum	The intensity variation of sunlight across its spectral range.
Sound Transmission Class (STC)	The sound transmission loss rating of a material over a selected range of sound frequencies. The higher the number, the less sound is transmitted.
Span	The distance between structural supports.
Spectrally selective glazing	A specially engineered Low-E coated or tinted glazing that blocks out much of the sun's heat while transmitting substantial daylight.
Spline	A vinyl or rubber material that is pressed into a groove in an extrusion to hold screening or vinyl glazing in place.
Spreader bar	Vertical or horizontal member used to prevent bowing of screens or vinyl windows.
Square foot	An area equal to that of a square the sides of which are twelve inches; 144 square inches. Multiply width by height (in inches) and divide by 144.
SSB	Single Strength B grade glass - it is nominal 3/32" thick.
Stile	Vertical sash or panel extrusion sometimes referred to as the side rails or jambs.
Stool	An interior trim piece on a window which extends the sill and acts as a narrow shelf.
Stop	The removable molding at the front of the rabbet, either or both serving to hold lite or panel in the sash or frame with the help of spacers. Also the part of a door frame against which the door closes.
Storey	The part of a building between any floor and the floor or roof next above.
Storm door	An extra outside door for protection against inclement weather.
Storm window	A second set of windows installed on the outside or inside of the primary windows to provide additional insulation and wind protection.
Strike plate	Metal piece with a punched hole on the frame jamb or astragal, which accepts the lock plunger.
Stucco	An outside plaster made with Portland cement as its base.
Studs	The vertical framing members between the posts used to support vertical loads and provide nailing surfaces for interior and exterior sheathing.
Sun control film	A tinted or reflective film applied to the glazing surface to reduce visible, ultra-violet, or total transmission of solar radiation. Reduces solar heat gain in summer and glare. Some can be removed and reapplied with changing seasons.
Swing	The term used with swing doors (French door) in regards to which way the door opens or swings. (Out or in)
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T
Tape glazing	Metal device which restrains balance for sash removal.
Tandem clip	Dual wheels inline and in the same mechanism. Used in sliding glass doors.
Tape glazing	Two-sided tape used to secure and seal the glass to the sash or frame.
Tempered glass	Treated glass that is strengthened by reheating it to just below the melting point and then suddenly cooling it. When shattered, it breaks into small pieces. Approximately four times stronger than standard annealed glass; is required as safety glazing in patio doors, entrance doors, side lights, and other hazardous locations. It cannot be re-cut after tempering.
Therm	100,000 BTU's of heat or energy.
Thermal break	An element of low conductance placed between elements of higher conductance to reduce the flow of heat. Often used in aluminum windows.
Thermal bridge	A low thermal resistance path connecting two surfaces; for example, framing members in insulated frame walls or metal ties in cavity wall and panel construction.
Thermal conductivity	The rate at which heat penetrates a material (measured in BTU's).
Thermal expansion	Change in dimension of a material as a result of temperature change.
Thermal mass	Mass in a building (furnishings or structure) that is used to absorb solar gain during the day and release the heat as the space cools in the evening.
Thermochromics	Glazing with optical properties that can change in response to temperature changes.
Thermosetting	The process of baking an organic paint finish on aluminum to ensure a tight bond and longevity.
Three point lock	Deadbolts that protrude in three separate directions with the movement of a single lever or key.
Threshold	The member that lies at the bottom of a sliding glass door or swinging door; the sill of a doorway.
Threshold cover	A cover placed in the threshold track, typically after the fixed panel.
Tilt latch	Mechanism that unlocks the sash and allows it to tilt in from the main frame.
Tilt-in/lift-out sash	A sash that can be tilted to the interior and removed for cleaning.
Tinted glass	Glass colored by incorporation of a mineral admixture. Any tinting reduces both visual and radiant transmittance.
Tip-to-Tip	Measurement for windows, which is taken from the outside of the flange to the outside of the flange.
Toe bead	Sealant put on base of channel before setting a lite/panel to provide a secondary seal to prevent leakage past the exterior stop.
Toe nailing	The practice of nailing at an angle to the first member so as to ensure penetration into a second member.
Tolerance	The allowable deviation from a nominal or expected dimension or value.
Top plate	The horizontal member nailed to the top of the partition or wall studs in a building.
Top rail	The top horizontal member of a sash or panel sometimes referred to as the sash, vent or panel sill.
Track clip assembly	A clip made from nylon and aluminum used on the interlock to prevent the panel from coming off the rail in negative pressure.
Transmittance	The percentage of radiation that can pass through glazing. Transmittance can be defined for different types of light or energy, e.g., visible light transmittance, UV transmittance, or total solar energy transmittance.
Transom	A window that fits over the top of a door or window, primarily for additional light and aesthetic value.
Trim	The finish materials in a building, such as moldings, applied around openings (window trim, door trim) or at the floor and ceiling of rooms (baseboard, cornice and other moldings).
Triple glazing	Three panes of glass or plastic with two air spaces between.
True divided light	A term which refers to windows in which multiple individual panes of glass or lights are assembled in the sash using muntins.
Truss	Any rafter, ceiling joist and tie assembled in such a way as to span a greater distance than the rafter alone.
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U
U-factor (U-value)	A measurement of the insulating quality of the window or door. U-factor is used to determine how well the window or door stops the flow of heat into an air-conditioned home or out of a heated home. The U-factor is based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside, and does not include the energy passed by sunlight (see SHGC). The lower the U-factor, the better.
UL	Underwriters Laboratory
Ultra-violet (UV)	The invisible rays of the spectrum that are outside of the visible spectrum at its short-wavelength violet end. Ultraviolet rays are found in everyday sunlight and can cause fading of paint finishes, carpets, and fabrics.
United inch	Unit of measurement: width plus height = United inch
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V
Valley	The internal angle formed by the junction of two sloping sides of a roof.
Vapor barrier	A watertight material used to prevent the passage of moisture into or through floors, walls and ceilings.
Vent	The sliding or projecting portion of the window.
Ventilation latch	Latch mechanism on the interior face of the sash which retains the window in a partially open position for ventilation.
Vertical 2, 3, or 4 track	Vinyl glazed aluminum framed window with vertically operating and interlocking sashes.
Vinyl	A rigid or flexible material made of poly vinyl chloride material used in window and door frames and glazing.
Vinyl glazing	Translucent 10 mil vinyl sheeting used in place of glass for porch enclosures and non living areas.
Vinyl-clad window	A window with exterior wood parts covered with extruded vinyl.
Visible Light Transmittance (VT)	The fraction of visible light from the outside that passes through the window or door into the home. VT is used to determine how bright the inside room will be from natural daylight passing through the window or door: the lower the VT, the darker the room.
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W
Washable hinges	Track type hinges on casement windows that aside from normal operation has the ability to slide towards frame center and allow for easy sash cleaning.
Weather barrier	The outer most assembly of the building envelope, used to protect the inner structure and insulation from the effects of wind and rain. Materials typically used are siding, building paper and flashing.
Weatherstripping	A material or device used to seal the openings, gaps or cracks of venting window and door units to prevent water and air infiltration.
Weep hole	A small opening in a wall, door or window sill member through which water may drain to the building exterior.
Weep hole cover	A plastic or metal piece that inserts into the weep hole to prevent air and bug infiltration.
Wet glazing	Method of sealing glass in a frame by using a gun-applied glazing material or sealant.
Wind load	Measurement of pressure (in psf) put forth by the wind.
Wire glass	Polished or clear glass, 1/4" thick. Wire mesh is embedded within the glass such that the glass will not shatter when broken. The wire pattern is available in many types. It is frequently used in skylights, overhead glazing, and locations where a fire-retardant glass is required.
Wood framing	Balloon Framing: A method of wood frame construction in which the studs extend in one piece from the foundation wall to the top plate supporting the roof. Bridging : A method used to resist twisting of joists and for stiffening floor construction by fitting either crossed pieces or solid blocks between the joists. Cap: The upper half of the top plate in wood frame walls and partitions. Plank Framing: A type of construction which employs flat vertical structural members with horizontal beams let into them and having an infilling of planks on edge. Post and Beam Framing: A system of construction in which posts and beams support the loads and the infilling walls are non-load bearing. Western Framing (Platform Framing): A system of framing a building on which floor joists of each storey rest on the top plates of the storey below (or on the foundation sill for the first storey) and the bearing walls and partitions rest on the sub floor of each storey.
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X
"X"	Indicates a moveable panel or sash in a window or door.
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Z
Z bar	A z shaped extrusion that makes up the main frame for the cabana door.
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