What is an astragal bar?
Astragal bars are one of the defining aesthetic features of period windows.
Whether Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian, the original windows in period homes would have been subject to the limitations in glass manufacturing of the time. The smaller scale, more fragile panes needed to be held in place by a grid of wooden windows bars, or astragal bars.
Nowadays, this iconic design feature continues to endure in popularity, but it is emulated with all the benefits of modern window technology.
Contemporary astragal bars
Rather than hold individual panes of glass, modern astragal bars are fitted to a single window pane, both internally and externally.
This means that bars are inserted between glazing panes within the sealed unit, and additionally fixed onto the glazing externally.
Internal and surface mounted astragal bars create the aesthetic of traditional architecture, whilst embracing all the benefits of contemporary window construction.
Through strengthening the window pane, they provide enhanced security, yet their slim profile ensures plenty of natural light. Astragal bars also increase the feeling of privacy within the home.
Astragal bars for French doors
Astragal bars are a popular choice for French doors. They are the perfect way to break up a large expanse of glass, to create a design feature.
They subtly interrupt the eye line to limit the view from the outside in, whilst retaining natural light and the view from the inside, out.
They achieve a more traditional architectural style.
Are replacement astragal bars ever required?
Modern replacement window techniques mean that astragal bar problems, such as astragal bars falling off, are extremely rare.
Period style windows are available in a range of materials to best suit the architecture of the property, and the lifestyle of the homeowners.
Whether timber, PVCu or aluminium, our range of windows are either double or triple glazed, designed and tailor-made to your own specific requirements.
All ranges are available with astragal bars if required, and in a broad selection of traditional or contemporary designs. Combining period style with state-of-the-art, energy efficient materials is the essence of our PVCu sliding sash windows, which can be designed in a choice of character styles.
Astragal bars vs Georgian bars
In essence, astragal and Georgian bars are vertical and horizontal bars, which are applied to one piece of glass to give the impression of multiple panes. However, there is a key difference in the way each is constructed.
Whereas astragal bars are inserted internally between glazing panes as well as externally on the surface of the glass, Georgian bars are purely an internal bar within the sealed unit.
Astragal bars give a more authentic impression of panes being held by bars, but both styles of window bar perform similar functions.
Astragal and Georgian bars both enable you to mirror period styling, create a pleasing character aesthetic, improve security of your home, whilst increasing a feeling of privacy.
Choosing the right window bars
Understanding the particular characteristics of astragal and Georgian bars will help you choose the right approach for your home.
Astragal bars
Astragal bars may be a more fitting choice for certain period properties. The fact that the bars sit inside and outside of the glazing means that they more closely emulate traditional timber windows.
If you live in a conservation area or have specific stipulations for replacement of your windows, astragal bars may be the most appropriate route.
Georgian bars
With Georgian bars, because they do not sit outside of and therefore proud of the glass, they are able to give the impression of a traditional grid of windows, whilst being much easier to clean. This is particularly beneficial for larger expanses of glass.
As Georgian bars have been designed to create a modern twist on traditional window design, they may not be the most appropriate choice for some period homes, or if you live in a conservation area.
Read more about choosing windows for period homes.
With contemporary homes, both astragal and Georgian bars can be fitting choices. The most important aspect is to choose a style that best enhances the architecture of your home – there are a wealth of options to enable you to do this.
If you would like to see some inspiring examples of astragal bars set in PVCu, timber and aluminium windows, we would be pleased to welcome you at our showroom.
To discuss your specific requirements or book a design consultation, please call us on 01444 45 71 45.