The History of Glass Windows

Glass windows are such a ubiquitous part of life in the modern world that they're often taken for granted. Though it's easy to forget, there was a time before glass windows when all interior spaces were either devoid of natural light or exposed to the elements. While they have been around since the Roman Empire, the technology used to make them has varied greatly.

The Roman Era

Ancient civilizations developed some remarkably advanced glass-making technology. Glassblowers would produce a bubble of molten silica and then slice it in half. They would then apply pressure while the glass was still hot enough to be malleable and flatten out the half bubbles into small panes. Because the process was so labor intensive, only the wealthiest Romans would have been able to afford glass in their homes.

Medieval and Renaissance Europe

Since much of the glass-blowing knowledge from the Roman era was lost during the Dark Ages, medieval Europeans were forced to rediscover many of the techniques. French glassmakers produced small discs of glass by blowing bubbles and then spinning them until the centrifugal force spun them flat. Many windows of the time incorporated small latticework windows of cut glass because they were unable to produce larger pieces. Also, many churches and mosques during this period developed stained glass window techniques, where metallic oxides were adding during the production process, and then monks or artists would add paint to the finished glass to enhance its colors.

Modern Glass Windows

In the 1950s, an Englishman named Alastair Pilkington developed a technique that would revolutionize the word of glass windows. The float glass process (also known as the Pilkington process) involves pouring molten glass onto a pool of molten metal, usually tin. The glass floats above the metal and smoothens under its own weight, leaving behind a perfectly flat and uniform pane of glass. With small variations, this is the process that is still in use today.

Glass windows have come a long way since their earliest beginnings. Today, glass can be molded and formed to create a virtually limitless array of shapes and structures. At Victorville Glass, we have glass solutions for nearly every application, from commercial and residential projects to glass enclosures and mirrors. If you live in the High Desert area and need an installation or replacement for your home or business, then call 760-245-3456 today for your free estimate.

Trends in Window Treatments and Updates

Every window in a home represents the chance to be creative. Residential windows can dramatize a room and even make it appear larger. By following contemporary trends in window treatments, homeowners can dramatically enhance a home's appearance.

Of course, the best first step for home enhancement is installing new windows. While the right treatments can help, energy-efficient windows will also improve curb appeal, lower energy bills, and increase the value of the home. Showcase new residential windows with some of these interior design ideas.

Opt for Organic Materials

Among today's more popular window treatments are natural woven shades in matchstick and bamboo. They allow for diffused light, which creates a great balance of natural lighting and outside views without sacrificing privacy.

Play With Shades of Blue

Various shades of blue are prominent in window treatments, especially such soothing ocean hues as aquamarine and teal. Neutral blue shades also pair well with warm tones, browns, and pops of white.

Try Out Velvet and Grosgrain

As soft textiles continue to influence the market, the trend is toward couture fabrications and such dressmaker details as ruffles, cording, beading, and lace. Grosgrain, a woven ribbed fabric, has become a fashionable ribbon detail for blinds and drapes.

Create Sleek Lines

From chrome decorative hardware to flowing curtains, sleek lines dominate modern window treatments. Bringing sleek silhouettes to a window lends a clean, contemporary look to any room.

Add High-tech Touches

Similar to replacing old windows with more efficient options, installing advanced window treatments that utilize technology can improve convenience and home value. For example, blinds can be adjusted by remote control, a light switch, or even using internet connection.

The key to creating a cohesive residential window design is to build on the current aesthetic of the space and add trendy touches without sacrificing functionality.

What to Know Before Replacing Wood-frame Windows

Old wood-frame windows can last centuries with a little loving care. When properly maintained and repaired as needed, original windows can add value and charm to an older home.

The Best Offense is Good Maintenance

Many older commercial and residential buildings have old wood-frame windows. While they have a reputation for being drafty and difficult to use when compared to more modern models, many of these issues are simply a result of poor maintenance. Here are some tips to keep windows in good shape:

• Keep the windows painted and sealed to preserve the wood
• Re-glaze windows as needed to prevent leaks
• Add weather-stripping to reduce drafts and save on energy costs

Remember that the wood sashes are designed to open. Don't let the DIY-shortcut of painting them shut diminish their usefulness.

Repair, Don't Replace

When homeowners are faced with the decision to repair or replace windows, they don't always realize that window repair can pay off over the years. Properly repaired wood windows can last for a century, while modern plastic windows will need to be replaced within a few decades.

Wood windows are designed to be reparable. The sashes can be restrung so the windows open more easily. Individual panes can also be replaced. Finally, window repairs can make windows more energy-efficient and less drafty.