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Plastic-framed Windows Are Often:
Aluminum and rigid plastic-framed windows are often installed to replace old wooden and metal-framed ones. Both types of material are extruded into complex sections that hold sealed double-glazed units and draftproofing material. They are set into wooden subframes, usually by specialist companies, and are virtually maintenance free. They do not require stays to hold them open.In conformity with French taste and an equally French medium, pastels may be framed with gilt moldings, although a natural wood is entirely suitable. Eighteenth century French prints and drawings should be framed with rather wide ruled paper mats, typical of the framing of the Louis XVI period. The artist's name and the title of the drawing were invariably lettered within a decorative cartouche on the matting. For modern prints, etchings, lithographs, etc., mats are ordinarily used. The mat should be cut out to fit the print, the opening being large enough to show the plate-mark and the signature. Prints also look well framed in black lacquer with narrow gold beading or in natural, unstained wood. Some etchings approach the strong tones of painting and should be framed with relatively heavy moldings. Frames are today made of varied materials. Glass, mirror, chromium, richly grained veneers, cork, and even stretched fabrics are used. The forms of the moldings themselves vary from the conventional curves to flat splayed surfaces.
Wooden slats vary in width from 1 5/8 inches to 2 % inches, depending on the width of the window. They are furnished in all colors and stains with cotton tapes to match or contrast. Water and sun tend to crack the paint, which requires frequent renewal. Slats are also furnished in galvanized steel, plastic, aluminum, and cardboard. The steel slats are sturdy and durable, but heavy. Plastic slats are slightly curved in section and are available in nonfading impregnated colors. Aluminum slats are slightly curved for greater strength, are lightweight, flexible, and furnished in natural finish and many colors, and are perhaps the most satisfactory. Plastic tapes that may be cleaned with a damp cloth may be obtained. Cardboard slats are inexpensive but are not durable. There are also Blinds with removable slats, a convenience for repairing, but requiring a mechanism which sometimes presents difficulties. For large windows it is advisable to have a center as well as side tapes. Slats are usually hung from a metal or plastic cornice or box which contains the operating hardware. If Venetian Blinds are hung on the face of the trim, they should overlap the jamb 2 inches on each side; if hung between the jambs they should be % inch narrower.
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