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Why Are Equal Sightlines Important?

(4 min read)

Quick FAQs

What are sightlines in windows?

Sightlines refer to the lines of sight that are created when you look out of a window. The size, shape and placement of the glazed panes and the frame affect the sightlines.

What are the benefits of equal sightlines in windows?

Equal sightlines are considered aesthetically pleasing as they create visual balance. Many period properties’ designs were based on symmetry, so equal sightlines can help you achieve an authentic appearance for your home.

How are equal sightlines created?

Equal sightlines are created when each section of a window is balanced and in harmony with the others. Equal sightlines can be created by fitting dummy openers to non-opening sashes of a standard (non-flush) window so that the glazed dimensions of fixed and opening sashes are the same.

What are Sightlines?

Sightlines refer to the lines of sight created when looking out of a window. They also refer to the lines seen on the windows when looking at the property from the outside. This includes the frames, glass panels and glazing bars being in line.

The areas of visibility through a window can be affected by a number of factors such as the size, shape, and placement of the window. Architects, designers and window specialists all consider sightlines carefully in their work.

The term ‘equal sightlines’ usually refers to the horizontal line of a window, but homes can also have vertically equal sightlines. The sightline can also refer to the amount of window frame you see when you are looking directly at it. Narrow sightlines mean slimmer frames and conversely wide sightlines mean thicker frames.

For leaded glass and Georgian bar windows, symmetry is key, so equal sightlines are particularly important on these types of windows.

How Are Equal Sightlines Created?

Many consider equal sightlines desirable. You may see manufacturers boasting that a product offers ‘reduced sightlines’ or even ‘superior sightlines’. This means that all the dimensions of the glazed panels on a window are the same.

One way to create equal sightlines is to use dummy sashes (also known as dummy vents) to create equal sightlines between the fixed glass panels and the openings. Dummy sashes are made to look like the openings on the windows they are in line with, producing equal sightlines. This means that each of the windows in the home features a uniform, identical opening.

Another example of creating equal sightlines would be to create equal vertical sightlines. Fixed windows can be placed above other fixed windows and the same for opening windows. This creates a sense of balance within the design, as the shaping of each set of windows will be the same. Also see our article on non-equal sightlines.

How Important Is It to Have Equal Sightlines?

Some properties’ designs will benefit more from equal sightlines. Where unequal sightlines may look very obvious in one home, they may be less obvious in another. Equal sightlines help create a home that looks perfectly balanced and in proportion but they are not at the top of everyone’s priority list when choosing new windows.

Equal sightlines can ensure that all parts of a room benefit from an equal amount of light but this is unlikely to be very noticeable in most properties.

How Can I Create Equal Sightlines?

If equal sightlines are important to you for your home, you can consider the following ways to achieve them:

  • Choose windows with equal glass sizes: One of the simplest ways to create equal sightlines is to choose windows with equal glass sizes. This means that the height and width of the glass panes in each window should be the same. This will ensure that the sightlines are equal across all windows.
  • Use window grilles or mullions: If you prefer a traditional look, you can use window grilles or mullions to create the appearance of equal sightlines. Grilles and mullions are decorative elements that divide the window glass into smaller sections. They can be used to create a more symmetrical appearance and equalize the sightlines.
  • Install window treatments: Window treatments such as curtains, drapes, or shades can help to equalize sightlines. By covering the entire window opening, they can create the illusion of equal sightlines, regardless of the actual size or shape of the windows.
  • Plan the placement of windows: The placement of windows is another important factor in creating equal sightlines. If building a new property or an extension, try to place windows at regular intervals along a wall or facade. This will create a more uniform appearance and help to balance the sightlines.

Equal Sightlines in Summary

When investing in new windows or a glazed extension, the sightline is critical to your experience. Whether you choose to have equal or unequal sightlines very much depends both on the style of your property, and how you want to use your windows to get the best out of them.

Consider the sizes, shapes and proportions of the glass panels, the frames and any leading, and remember that the amount of light let in will be impacted by the thickness of the frames.

Need advice on the sightlines of your windows?

Work with your professional window provider to discuss your options and what will work best with the style of your property. Ask to look at examples and mock-ups of the finished design, and how it will look on your property.

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Paul Wallis
Paul Wallis
2023-10-28
We recently decided to replace our front door, and could not be happier with the result! Thanks so much to Kate, for her time and understanding. Cannot say enough good things about the installation, and Cameron was tidy and efficient. It's been a pleasure to work with Three Counties recently, doors and windows. Many thanks!
Danielle Horsley
Danielle Horsley
2023-10-14
Lovely looking door
Agatha W
Agatha W
2023-09-08
Three Counties have been superb, their customer service is great and their workman were polite, cleaned up after themselves and the workmanship is excellent!! I am very pleased with their work and would happily recommend them.
Tom Winter
Tom Winter
2023-08-15
Excellent service!! We had 21 windows and 3 doors installed and very happy with it all. The process from start to finish was stress free and Ron and Lee who installed the windows and doors were great. Would definitely recommend!
Phil Redhead
Phil Redhead
2023-08-12
Just had my tatty old windows replaced by Three Counties, and it’s been a highly professional job from start to finish. Communication from the administration team was prompt and courteous at all times, and installation ended up being much quicker than advertised projections. Installation was without issue and the lads who did the work were amenable to my requirements and did an excellent job. Very happy with the entire process. Three Counties were recommended to me by friends and I can certainly now recommend them to others.
Mark Boyce
Mark Boyce
2023-07-21
Bought two new windows and a new front door from Three Counties, was very impressed with the attitude of all staff, who were friendly and informative. Price was good, and installation completed without a hitch - very happy with the final product, and would definitely use again.
Paul Picknett
Paul Picknett
2023-06-13
We have just had all our windows (18) replaced, french doors (20 and side panels (2) by Three Counties. We could not be more pleased with their workmanship and the finished product. They left the property incredibly clean after each day, and this despite the messy nature of ripping out old windows and frames. We were kept informed at each stage and a minor snagging issue was resolved promptly and efficiently after installation. A first class service. We would not hesitate to recommend Three Counties.
Anna Trevelyan
Anna Trevelyan
2023-06-01
Three Counties have now installed several windows and doors on our house and they're always my go-to company. I used another before I discovered them and they let me down, but I absolutely cannot fault Three Counties. From the moment you contact them they're courteous and professional, and they keep in touch with timescales and installation times. Friendly installers too, who go above and beyond. You'd think all this great service would cost more but they beat other companies on price. Highly recommended and trusted, I'd never go anywhere else now.