Glossary - T

A Glossary of window terminology

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Tempered glass

Glass manufactured to withstand greater than normal forces on it surface. It is approximately five times stronger than annealed glass. When it breaks, it shatters into small pieces to reduce hazard. Tempered glass can not be cut after tempering.  

Tenon

A rectangular projection cut out of a piece of wood for insertion into a mortise. 

Thermal break

An element of low conductance placed between elements of higher conductance to reduce the flow of heat (or cold). Only used in Aluminium windows. 

Tilt-Only Blinds

Blinds are fixed at the top and bottom of the window and tilt for light control. 

Top-Down Shades

When extra privacy is desired, choose a top-down shade -- shade is only adjustable from the top, allowing light to come through the top of the window. 

TrueCapture™ Sloped Sill
The sill of some Alside double-hung windows that has a downward slope toward the outside with a capture dam that helps to keep water from infiltrating the base of the bottom sash. Sloped sill assists water drainage to the exterior of the window.

Tape-Glaze
The method by which glass is set and sealed into a sash or window opening with a double adhesive tape.  

Tilting Sashes
A double-hung window designed in such a way that the sashes tilt inward for easy cleaning of the outside of the glass.  

Tongue-and-Groove Joint
A joint formed by the insertion of the tongue of one wood member into the groove of the other; modifications include tongue and groove rabbet joint, dado tongue and rabbet, tongued shoulder joint, dado and rabbet joint, dado and rabbet joint, dado and lip joint.  

Top Rail
The top rail of a sash, door, blind or other similar panel assembly.

 Transom
A window, usually rectangular, placed over a door or window. Transoms, or fanlites, were first used in the 18th century on exterior doors. They increased the amount of light let into the front hall, and because of them, the size of the front door could be reduced.  

 Trim
Millwork, primarily mouldings, that finishes off window and door openings, fireplaces, walls and other members.  

Triple Glazing
Three panes of glass with an airspace between each pane.  

 True Divided Lite
A window opening comprised of multiple individual smaller panes of glass separated by muntins.