Before we dive in, let’s step back in time, so you can understand exactly what grilles are and why they’re still used. Historically window glass was made of individual panes, called lights (or lites), which were held together by wooden dividers called muntins. This is why you still sometimes hear the terms grilles and muntins used interchangeably. The patterns that were created by assembling windows in this way added beauty to homes that’s still appealing today. Of course, today’s windows are assembled much differently, and consequentially, grilles are now simulations of yesteryear’s muntins. They add character and architectural authenticity to more energy-efficient modern windows.
Colonial grilles: This simple, symmetrical grid pattern is intended to replicate the old-world charm of individual glass panes (lights/lites) held together with muntions. It complements many traditional home styles — Cape Cods, colonials and more.
Prairie-style grilles: This semi-customizable pattern comes from the Prairie architectural style — think the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. One popular option is a simple pattern of overlapping lines framing the edge of the window glass.
Diamond grilles: This ornate pattern of crisscrossing diagonal lines creates a diamond grid and appears most frequently in Tudor, Gothic, or other highly decorative architectural styles.
Short fractional grilles: This pattern of shorter vertical grilles in the upper part of the window's glass is often used to replicate the look of a transom window (aka a window above a window).
Tall fractional grilles: This pattern of taller, vertical grilles in the upper part of the window’s glass is often used to replicate the look of a double-hung window and is popular in craftsman bungalow homes.
Specified equal light grilles: This semi-customizable pattern allows you to choose the number of lights/lites wide and high, so you can create a look that suits a variety of home styles. Find out more about this versatile pattern in the “Modern versus traditional grilles” section below.
Custom grilles: Want to frame your view with the outline of a tree, flower, or perhaps something more abstract? Whatever your dream, chances are we can make it.
Want to see more patterns? Explore all our grille options.
A grille pattern can be applied in various ways on the inside, outside, and even in between the glass on a window. When deciding on the type of grille application you might like, consider your home’s architectural style and your preferences for cleaning (some grilles can be removed for easier cleaning).
Here are your options:
Full divided light is meant to imitate true divided light, or historic window made of individual panes connected with muntins (or wood dividers). The advantage of full divided light is that it’s more energy efficient than true divided light, because it can be applied to dual-pane window glass.
At the same time, full divided light gives an authentic look with grilles inside, outside, and a spacer bar in between the glass. You can even select the color of your spacer bar choosing from black or white, if you want it to match your grilles, or opting for stainless steel if you want to create a shadow line.
There’s also a way to further boost energy efficiency with an energy-spacer bar. Available with A-Series windows, this feature gives you top tier thermal performance and can even help meet ENERGY STAR® performance requirements for certain climates.
Grilles are often considered a more traditional design element. However, there are all sorts of ways to customize grilles to create a look that’s just right for your home.
Whether you’re looking for historical accuracy or something more modern, there’s a range of styles that can be created with more traditional grilles.
