Classic Georgian Windows

Genuine muntins partition the glass into a series of smaller panes, meaning the window does not consist of a single large piece of glass. In the past, more muntins and small panes of glass meant more opportunity for insulation problems. However, this is no longer an issue and modern windows with genuine muntins are still nearly indistinguishable from their single pane counterparts in terms of performance. Finally, real bars provide significantly better burglary protection and if the window is damaged, only the broken area need be replaced instead of the entire window. 

Viennese Muntins

Viennese bars are mounted with an adhesive on either outward facing side of the glass only, or both sides. Therefore, they have no effect on the window's energy efficiency and ability to insulate. With multiple glazing, the space between panes can also optionally feature a matching bar. This makes them nearly indistinguishable from genuine old-fashioned muntins. For this reason, the Viennese technique is often used in historic buildings.

Helima Muntins

The Helima series consists of powder-coated bars inserted in-between the individual glass panes. This means the outer window surface remains unchanged and is thus very easy to clean. The only disadvantage is that, being between the glass panes, the bars can serve to conduct energy and decrease a window's insulation ability somewhat.

Why Partition a Window at All?

Dividing Georgian style windows into multiple smaller panes has one obvious drawback: they typically have slightly higher U-values than a standard casement window (with or without Georgian bars). Nowadays, one may ask why it is worth choosing genuine Georgian bar windows at all.

The answer is a simple. The solid bars improve the structural integrity of not only the glazing, but also the entire frame. Thus, a damaged pane is much less likely - and if it does occur, it is more affordable to repair, since only small parts of the glass have to be replaced instead of the entire pane. Finally, there is the additional sturdiness and protection that a Georgian window provides against burglary attempts.

The Ideal Solution for Preserving Historical Buildings

Thanks to their classic aesthetics, Georgian windows are often used in the preservation of historical homes or sun rooms.

Modern windows can easily provide excellent thermal insulation and waterproofing, both of which are desperately needed in older buildings. The Georgian style bars serve to recreate the exact visual appearance of the facade the architect originally envisioned.