Brief History of Windows

Setting aesthetics aside, the primary purpose of any window is to allow light and perhaps air into the dwelling. Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures made scant use of anything which we would call window openings. In some instances translucent alabaster was used to cover a small opening in a building. Our modern concept of windows began during the 12th century in gothic cathedrals. Later, advances in flat glass manufacturing during the 15th century gave architects and builders greater opportunities for style and design. Craftsmen utilized stone, brass, copper, wood, and lead to construct windows. Early operating windows were either in-swing or out-swing casements. In the 17th century, the double hung window was invented in England.

The modern age of windows could be thought of as beginning in the last century. Insulated glass was patented in 1865. Steel became a common framing material for windows by the end of the century. The 20th century has seen major changes in window hardware and the addition of two primary frame components: aluminum and vinyl. By the 1950’s, aluminum windows had gained a major market share in the United States. The age of cheap windows was upon us.

Vinyl framed windows were developed in Germany in 1955. By the mid 1970’s, they commanded a third of the European market for prime and retrofit windows. After their introduction to America in the late 1960’s vinyl windows had grown from a cottage industry to where they dominate the retrofit market in certain regions of the country.

As window and glass technology has changed during this century, society’s value judgment concerning windows has become increasingly critical. Besides energy saving properties of windows, the buyer today is interested in design and appearance.

Today opportunities abound for companies which can answer the homeowner’s needs of “Why Windows?”