Window grilles, also known as grids or muntins, are a key consideration for window design. If you are planning on getting new windows for your home, read on as to whether or not you should get window grilles.
What Are Window Grilles?
Grilles are the strips of material that separate the window glass into smaller sections. Grilles have been in use since the Renaissance and served as a structural component. Glassmaking methods at the time were limited to making small pieces, and grilles were needed in windows and patio doors to hold them in place. With large glass pieces becoming more commonplace, grilles became a decorative element. A typical window may have grilles installed on the glass or between glass panes – or none at all.
Factors to Consider
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing between having grilles or doing away with them altogether:
- Architectural style: The right grille style can give your home an authentic look if it’s designed after a certain architectural style. For example, a Tudor style home won’t be complete without diamond-shaped grids on its windows. A Prairie style home has a grille design named after it, which features a nine-panel layout with the outer eight panels serving as a frame for a large center panel.
- Maintenance: Traditionally made grilles can make it more difficult to clean the windows. If you intend to clean and maintain your windows yourself, look for windows with removable grilles. Some window manufacturers offer “inside-only” options, which makes it easier to clean the exterior side.
- Views: If there’s a beautiful view outside your windows, you’ll want to reconsider getting grilles. The best window styles that capture great views are styles like picture windows and casement windows – these styles allow the biggest glass areas and can “frame” wide views with the least interruption.
Twin Cities Siding and Roofing provides window installation services to customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul and the surrounding communities in the Twin Cities. Give us a call at (651) 967-0873, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
