How to Determine Window Handing

Handing refers to the direction a window or door opens and is easy to determine. "X" is used to denote the operable panel and "O" refers to the fixed or stationary panel. Window and door handing is always determined looking at a window from the exterior of the home.

Horizontal Sliding Windows: To determine whether you require an XO or OX window simply view the window from the exterior of your home. If you want the sliding panel to be the one on your left choose XO and if the operable is to be on the right choose OX.

XO

OX

Vertical Sliding Windows: Use X and O differently. With single hung windows only one panel is operable and it is always the bottom panel. On double-hung windows both panels are operable. Since vertical sliding windows are preset as to how their panels move there is no need to specify handing.

Single Hung

Double Hung

Casement Windows: are the same except that casement window crank out rather than slide from side to side. So handing in this case specifies which side the hinge is located on. they are called FCL when the hinges are located on the left side of the frame and FCR for when they are located on the right side of the frame. With the graphic representation of a casement the hinged side is always at the pointed side of the dashed arrow.

FCL

FCR

And of course if you have questions regarding any aspect of the window you're purchasing, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be glad to help during your order confirmation phone call.

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