Once upon a time, grids held multiple panes of glass in a window. Today, window grids are primarily decorative. They’re an easy way to add style and character to your home. SoftLite Windows offers multiple grid patterns to personalize your windows. Let’s explore some of the most popular window grid styles to help you pick the right one for your home.

What Are the Most Popular Window Grid Patterns?

Popular window grid patterns include:

1. Traditional / Colonial

Easily recognizable, the traditional pattern consists of vertical and horizontal lines that split a window into equal sections. The number of sections depends on the window’s size. For the average double-hung window, we typically see homeowners choose grids to split each sash into four to eight sections. One popular style we see is only adding the grids to the upper sash of the window. 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 a small square in each corner. The open rectangle in the middle preserves an unobstructed view while still offering some style.

3. Craftsman

Craftsman grids have generated a lot of interest from homeowners over the past few years. This pattern features straight grid lines across the upper portion of the window. We see homeowners choosing them when they want 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. Minimalist homeowners love this style because of its quaint simplicity.

5. Diagonal / Diamond

This pattern consists of criss-crossed diagonal lines that create a diamond grid on a window. Although it is less common today than in the past, homeowners with Gothic- and Tudor-style homes still choose it for its thematic flair. 

What Types of Windows Work with Grids?

You can add grids to any window style. 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.

More Window Grid Options

When ordering your replacement windows with grids, you also have more options than the pattern. 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? Explore our decorative window grid options to see the full range of styles.

Regardless of 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.

The History of Window Grids

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.

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.