Different Styles of Window Muntins

Traditional or Colonial

• Traditional window muntins are sometimes referred to as Colonial style. This is the most common style of window muntins in new home construction. Traditional window muntins are available in several popular styles that vary according to window size. Four, six, eight, nine and 12 squares are common for traditional style window muntins.

Fractional or Modified Traditional

• Fractional window muntins contain one or more rows of traditional style muntins on the top portion of a window. The remainder of the window is left clear without muntins. The most common fractional muntin style consists of one row of squares at the top, but the number of individual squares or rows of squares is a personal preference. The look is fresh and modern, with the benefit of an unobstructed view through at least the lower half of the window, but typically most of the window is left clear.

Gothic

• Gothic style window muntins are synonymous with pointed arches, castles and cathedrals. Gothic architecture style typically refers to the medieval time period that started in the 12th century and lasted until the 16th century. Today's Gothic window muntins are not as elaborate as the originals, but even modern Gothic muntins can vary greatly in style, having only a pointed arch as a common factor. Readily available in today's market is a single or double Gothic arch in a rectangular glass window.

Prairie

• Prairie style windows exhibit an almost clear view, with the exception of muntins that run along the side, just a few inches from the edge of the window. This style of window muntin is typical of craftsman style architecture. The muntins cross only at the corners and the effect is simple and linear, perfect for Frank Lloyd Wright inspired architecture.