Window Glossary

A thin covering material, of metal or vinyl that is fitted over another building component for weather protection and finished appearance. Also used as a flashing to prevent rain water penetration.

A material co-extruded with PVC formulated to offer a specific color, finish and/or function, such as heat resistance.

Window with sash cranking outward, to the right or left.

Exposed moulding or profile around a window or door, on either the inside or outside, to cover the space between the window frame or door jamb and the wall.

A compound for filling joints and sealing cracks to prevent leakage of water and air.

An office of the National Research Council that evaluates building materials.

Extruded polyvinyl chloride material used in window and door components and trim. Unlike rigid vinyl, it features a foam or cell-structure inside. It can often be nailed, sawn and fabricated like wood.

Generally, a material combining an organic material, such as wood fiber, extruded with plastic.

Another term for siding. A thin material made of vinyl or aluminum, fitted over wood sash and/or frame members of a window for weather protection and finish color.

A window in the upper part of a high-ceilinged room that admits light to the center of the room.

A screen or storm door used in combination with a primary door. Storm windows also are referred to as combination windows.

A method of installing a replacement window where the older window is completely removed back to the original window opening (RSO).

A term used for window or door components that consist of two or more materials, such as glass fibers or wood and plastic. The term also is used for windows and doors that combine two or more materials in the frame or sash construction, such as products with a wood interior and vinyl or aluminum exterior. 

Water vapor from the air deposited on any cold surface that has temperature below the dew point.