Resources

Glossary of Terms N – P

Nailing fin

An integral extension of a window or patio door frame which generally laps over the conventional stud construction and through which nails are driven to secure the frame in place.

NFRC

National Fenestration Rating Council.

Obscure glass

Any textured glass (frosted, etched, fluted, ground, etc.) used for privacy, light diffusion, or decorative effects.

Operable window

Window that can be opened for ventilation.

Operator

Crank-operated device for opening and closing casement or jalousie windows.

Pane

One of the compartments of a door or window consisting of a single sheet of glass in a frame; also, a sheet of glass.

Panel

A major component of a sliding glass door, consisting of a light of glass in a frame installed within the main (or outer) frame of the door. A panel may be sliding or fixed.

Panning

In replacement windows work, the outside aluminum trim that can extend around the perimeter of the window opening; used to cover up the old window material. Panning can be installed in the opening before the window, or can be attached directly to the window before installation.

Particle dispersed glazing

Glazing in which the orientation of small particles between two sheets of glass is controlled electrically, this-changing its optical properties.

Parting stop

A narrow strip, either integral or applied, that holds a sash or panel in position in a frame.

Peak load

The maximum thermal load to be provided by a heating or cooling system in a house.

Photochromic

capable of changing color on exposure to radiant energy. Glazing with the optical properties that change in response to the amount of incident light.

Picture window

A large, fixed window framed so that it is usually, but not always, longer horizontally than vertically to provide a panoramic view.

Pivot window

A window with a sash that swings open or shut by revolving on pivots at either side of the sash or at top and bottom.

Plastic film

A thin plastic substrate, sometimes used as the inner layers in a triple- or quadruple-glazed window.

Plastics

Artificial substances made of organic polymers that can be extruded or molded into various shapes including window frames and sashes.

Plate glass

A rolled, ground, and polished product with true flat parallel plane and surfaces affording excellent vision. It has been replaced by float glass.

Polyvinylchloride (PVC)

An extruded or molded plastic material used for window framing and as a thermal barrier for aluminum windows.

Projected window

A window fitted with one or more sashes opening on pivoted arms or hinges. Refers to casements, awnings, and hoppers.