A window is an opening in the wall of a building that is designed to allow light and fresh air in. Most building windows are framed with wood or metal. As part of the history of windows, we can't help but mention the former. They were an opening with a stretched skin on a wooden frame. And only later did the mullioned window and the paper window appear.
Window design is closely related to architectural styles, framing materials and glass types. The windows can be used to judge the condition of the whole building and the social status of its residents. In the past, they could be used to determine which rooms were occupied by servants and which by masters.
16th century
The flowering of the Tudor dynasty left its mark on the appearance of the windows. They are large, separated by multiple openings. Wrought-iron frames also appeared at this time.
Glass became an affordable material, contributing to extensive windows becoming a distinctive feature of European capitals.
17th century
In this century the windows became taller, being divided into four with a horizontal and vertical divider. This period gave rise to timber framing and the narrowing of the sills. For decoration, brick or stone ornaments were used to cover the window frames.
The double windows appear for the first time. In their earliest form, the upper sash was fixed and the lower one slid into a chute designed for this purpose.
The patterns of double glazing has remained unchanged for over 250 years. Only the positioning mechanisms have been modified many times.
18th century
During this period, the mouldings holding the glass parts were made of copper and were only 10 mm wide. By the middle of the century the mouldings were painted in fresh and light colours, and then black came into fashion. The houses of the wealthy were painted entirely in black, and some ornaments in gold. The so-called Georgian windows appeared during this period.
19th century
The century of change. Glass and the elements that hold it are changing dramatically. Colored frames and panes are appearing. Quite often, during this period, windows are seen to give access to balconies. And even being replaced by French windows. By the middle of the century, we see the dropping of the retaining mouldings, allowing windows to have only one central pane. To compensate for the weight of the glass, windows were made wider.
Today we have the opportunity to choose from a variety of types of joinery - by colour, material and size, different glass type and colour, mounting method and light transmission level.
If you are looking to renovate a home, office or industrial building, you can get in touch with us using our contact form. Our associates will answer all your questions.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
