What Is Mullion Window Frame?
What Is Mullion Window Frame?
The mullion window frame is an architectural element used in medieval and renaissance architecture. In architecture, a mullion is a structural member that is placed between the lintels of a window or door and the top rails.
The mullion provides support and stability to the window or door, but also allows light from the top to pass through. Mullions can be used in the architecture of different types of windows, including segmental arches or flat arches using a barrel vault.
The window frame is composed of two or more lintels and a mullion that holds the lintels together. Mullions can also be used to create a trapdoor, which is a non-structural opening found in the roof of some buildings, allowing ventilation and light to enter.
A half-round foundation is sometimes built into this opening to prevent rain from entering the structure. The mullion is also used in medieval Japanese architecture to a certain extent. The Japanese mullion has very slender supports that are composed of either carved wood or hinoki wood slats.
The slender supports hold up pieces of paper, wood, and bamboo panels that are hung on the sides of buildings. Mullions in Medieval architecture have been used since the time of ancient Greece. During the renaissance period, mullions were commonly used on windows of churches.
Mullions are larger than a Gothic window frame but smaller than a Greek revival frame. Mullions cannot be used in a Georgian or Federal-style house, and should not be used in Colonial or Tudor-style homes. They are not required in traditional English houses but may add beauty to a room. Mullions can be made of a variety of materials, such as wood or metal.
How Do You Frame A Window With J Channel?
- Remove all pieces of wood from either side of your window or door frame, and make sure that the j-channel is secured tightly into place so that it doesn’t move around.
Measure the width of your j channel, then cut some pieces of wood that are slightly larger than this measurement and glue them onto both sides so that they are flush with the ends of the j channel.
- Take one small piece of wood that is slightly larger than a strip of wood and slightly longer than your window frame, then cut it so that it fits snugly over the j-channel without overlapping it.
Glue the base of this piece to one side of your j-channel, and then put two pieces of wood onto each side so that they fit snugly into place.
- Glue this piece onto both sides of your new window frame while using double-stick tape to hold it in place, then add trim along both sides of the frame to secure all pieces tightly in place.
Measure all four sides of your window frame to make sure they are exactly the same height as your window and j-channel, then take note of how much wood is left on each side after you remove all the pieces you removed in steps 1, 2, and 3.
- Glue the second piece of wood onto the outer side of your new window frame that is as thick as your wall or is nailed or screwed into place if you wish.
- Paint all pieces white or similar color, then install your new window on top of it.
- Finally, add trim along all four sides so that they fit snugly next to the j-channel and give it a more finished look when viewed from the outside.
How Do You Whitewash A Window Frame?
- Use a glass cleaner to clean the window surface. Alternatively, a solution of equal parts vinegar and water can be used. After washing, dry the window with a lint-free cloth.
Apply whitewash to a paper or cloth and rub it into the window frame. Allow the whitewash to dry completely, then paint the window with high-quality water-based white paint.
- Before opening the whitewash ingredients, put on a dust mask. To protect your skin, put on heavy gloves and long sleeves. Pour 1 cup of chalk into a fine-mesh strainer. Put on rubber gloves and, using a paintbrush, stir in the vinegar and water. Use a rag to wipe up any excess liquid from countertops.
- Combine 12 cups hydrated lime powder and 4 cups salt in a mixing bowl. In a large bucket, combine the lime solution with 2 gallons of water, alternating between a small amount of lime and a small amount of water while constantly stirring.
- Set aside the mixture overnight to allow the lime to completely dissolve. If the whitewash has separated, thoroughly stir before using. Pour the whitewash into a paintbrush, or spray it onto your windows with a spray bottle. Allow the whitewash to dry completely, then paint it with water-based white paint.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off the window frames so the whitewash doesn’t get on them. Tear off a sheet of painter’s tape and place it on the window, backing it up with masking paper and moving it around until you have taped the whole window. Allow the masking tape to dry completely before removing it.
- Using a standard paintbrush, apply the whitewash solution to the windows. Allow the whitewash to dry completely. If a thicker coverage is desired, apply a second coat.