There was once a time when grids were used to hold multiple panes of glass in a window. Today, window grids are primarily used for decorative purposes. And if you choose the right ones, they may help you take your home decor to the next level. To understand why, let’s answer common questions about window grids. 

What Is a Window Grid?

Window grids, also called grilles or muntins, date back to the early 1600s. At this time, there was a shortage of glass in London. This led some settlers to create a glass factory in Jamestown, Va., in 1608. 

To protect large pieces of glass from breaking, the factory shipped the glass in sections. The settlers connected the glass sections with grids to create windows for their homes.

Over the years, window technology has evolved. Nowadays, grids are rarely used to hold sections of glass together. However, they remain a popular look, and many window grid styles and patterns are available to match a wide range of home designs. 

What Are the Most Popular Window Grid Patterns?

Popular window grid patterns include:

1. Traditional 

Easily recognizable, the traditional pattern consists of vertical and horizontal lines that split a window into equal sections. This pattern is often used on brick homes to further highlight their architecture and style. 

2. Prairie

While the traditional pattern is about symmetry, prairie grids divide a window into uneven sections. These grids feature straight, simple lines with a large rectangle in the middle and small square in each corner. 

3. Craftsman

Craftsman grids have generated a lot of interest from homeowners over the past few years. Featuring straight grid lines across the upper portion of a window, these grids may be great options for those who want to give their home an ultra-modern look and feel. 

4. Farmhouse

With one vertical line and one horizontal line across the window, this pattern may remind you of a farmhouse. This configuration is frequently used to help bring a minimalist aesthetic to a home’s decor. 

5. Diagonal

This pattern consists of criss-crossed diagonal lines that create a diamond grid on a window. Although it is less common today than it was in the past, it is still used for windows in various Gothic and Tudor-style homes. 

What Types of Windows Work with Grids?

All styles of windows can have grids. At SoftLite Windows & Doors, we offer a variety of window styles with grids, including: 

• Double-hung
• Awning/Hopper
• Bay/bow
• Casement
• Picture and shape
• Slider

If you want more information about these and other types of windows with grids, we’re here to help. 

Should You Get Window Grids?

Before you get windows with grids, there are many factors to consider, such as:

• Window Size: You’ll need more grilles for large windows than for smaller ones. 
• Home Colors: Muntins can complement your home’s interior and exterior colors. 
• Consistency: You should be able to place grids on windows across your entire home or a section to give your residence a uniform appearance. 
• Curb Appeal: Grilles may help you boost your home’s curb appeal. 
• View of the Outdoors: Grids may inadvertently obstruct your view of the outdoors.

When ordering your replacement windows with grids, you also have more options than just the configuration. Do you want flat or contoured? Regular width or wide width? Vinyl or pencil? Or, do you desire simulated divided lites (SDLs) that adhere to the outside of the glass, which are great for historical homes? Regardless of what your choice, it pays to partner with an experienced installation company that sells windows manufactured by a quality window company. This allows you to work with a business that understands the ins and outs of windows with grids. On top of that, you’ll be able to get the insights you need to determine if windows with or without grids are right for you.

How Can You Get Windows with Grids?

SoftLite Windows & Doors offers an extensive collection of replacement windows to fit any home, region, or climate.

Our dealers are happy to discuss Softlite’s selection of replacement windows — with or without grids — to help you find ones that accommodate your style. 

Contact SoftLite Windows for replacement windows with a variety of grid-style options.