You have probably encountered the term “muntins” several times while you’re shopping for windows. Make sure you know all your options when it comes to muntins so that you can have the most perfect window for your home.
Renewal by Andersen® of Houston, a top-rated window company that provides sliding windows and other window styles, shares more information about muntins. We also discuss the pros and cons of the different grille styles.
What Are Muntins?
Muntins are framing pieces that support individual glass panes, which are also referred to as “lites” or “lights”. They are widely common in older and more traditional homes because glass could only be manufactured in smaller pieces back then. In order to have a larger window, small panes of glass would have to be joined together by using muntins as a framework.
Today, large pieces of glass can be used for windows without requiring this kind of support structure. However, many homeowners still like the appeal that multiple-paned windows bring.
Different Grille Styles
Muntins are available in varying styles, and your choice of muntins can affect the overall look and cost of your windows. Below are your options as well as their pros and cons:
1. True Divided Lites
True divided lites are quite similar to traditionally made windows, so these are perfect if you want an “authentic” look. Cleaning windows with multiple panes can be tedious, though, and these are usually more expensive.
2. Simulated Divided Lites
Simulated divided lites typically have the glass adhered to the muntin framework. These windows are a cheaper alternative to true divided lites, so they’re a great option if you want a traditional-looking window for less.
3. Simulated Divided Lites With Spacers
These have a similar configuration as a simulated divided lite window, except for the spacer bars sandwiched between the glass panes on multi-glazed windows. Because the gaps between the inside and outside muntins are filled in with spacers, this type of window more closely resembles the true divided lites. Much like true divided lites, however, cleaning simulated divided lites with spacers can be difficult, too.
Renewal by Andersen offers this option with a permanently applied exterior Fibrex® material grille, an aluminum spacer between the glass, and a removable or permanently applied interior grille. Other styles offered by Renewal by Andersen are Between-the-Glass (aluminum grilles permanently installed between the panes) and Interior Wood Grilles (hardwood grilles that snap into clips on the interior of the sash).
Renewal by Andersen of Houston is a trusted window contractor that offers an array of window styles, such as picture windows, casement windows and others. Call us at (281) 547-6177, or fill out our contact form to request a free quote. We provide our expertise to homeowners in Sugar Land, TX, and the surrounding areas.
