A window is much more than a pane of glass. It's an assembly of carefully designed components that work together to let in light, keep out the weather, and support the wall around it. Understanding these parts is the first step to appreciating how a window functions. Let's look at three key pieces: the reveal, the head, and the subsill.

Think of the timber reveal as the bridge between your window and the wall. When a window unit is placed into a rough opening in a wall, there's always a gap. The reveal is the timber lining that fills this space, creating a smooth, finished transition from the window frame to the interior wall surface, like drywall or plaster.

Without a reveal, you'd see the unfinished studs, insulation, and building wrap inside the wall. It covers these raw construction materials, providing a clean surface that can be painted or stained to match the room's decor. In essence, it frames the view.

The head and subsill are the top and bottom horizontal members of the window assembly. They do more than just complete the rectangle; they serve critical structural and protective functions.

The head is the uppermost part of the frame. Its main job is to provide support. In combination with a structural beam inside the wall called a lintel, the head helps carry the weight of the wall, roof, and any upper floors that press down on the window opening. It ensures the window doesn't get crushed by the load above it.

The subsill is the bottom piece, and its primary role is water management. It is designed with a slight slope angled downwards and away from the house. This simple feature is crucial for directing rainwater away from the window and the wall.

Together, these components form a system that is both functional and aesthetic, providing a clear view while protecting the integrity of your home.