Using glass in residential homes is a relatively new development, but using glass for other buildings is not. Homes with windows nowadays are more protected and private than when they were first starting to be used in homes in the United States. Learning the history of glass windows can help homeowners see just how much they have developed and how they can protect their homes. 

The Glass-Making Industry

In 3500 BC, the glass industry really started with craftsmen in Eastern Mesopotamia. It was expensive and considered a luxury for many many years after this as well. The craftsman made the glass into jewelry or vessels for wealthy people. This is when glass blowpipes were also introduced which made the glass-making process much easier. Because of this solid foundation, glass has become more widely used in many different projects in Europe, Spain, and America. 

Romans Started Using Glass For Windows

While glass production was already common in Eastern countries, it spread to Rome, where it started being placed as window panes. They were able to refine it by the end of the 1st century and make it at scale for windows. The glass was uneven and was too thick in places but still allowed natural light to pass into the buildings, which was what the Romans were hoping to achieve. 

Stained Glass In Religious Buildings

Ancient architecture, especially religious buildings, featured stained glass. These type of windows developed into an art form rather than being used for letting in natural light. European churches were using glass that was dyed and placed strategically in the 4th century which helped make it a dominant art form that still exists today. 

The Development Of Modern Windows

The curved shape of architectural windows and creating symmetry in buildings was developed by the Romans. Arch-shaped wider windows were featured in many buildings during the Byzantine period but were still not being used commonly in all homes. The cost of glass was still high, so including it in your home was a luxury until the 17th century. 

Glass windows became more cost effective in the Middle Ages. The advancements in making glass panes advanced through the 16th and 17th centuries and were then included in homes more readily. 

More and more residential and commercial buildings were then standardized with rectangular openings to fit windows before finishing up the construction project. 

Double-hung windows were developed in the 17th century along with vertical sliding sash windows, which came to the U.S. in the 18-19th century.

Getting windows in your home is now second nature thanks to the long history of perfecting the shape and structure. 

The Glass Windows You See In Homes Today

Now that the shaping, making, and installation of glass windows is now second nature, developers can focus on improving them in other ways. For example, double pane windows, tempered glass, privacy texture, and energy-efficient windows are all developments that help to protect those in the home.

Modern windows need to protect those living in the home from harsh weather conditions, keep the home at a controlled temperature, and let in natural sunlight to improve the health of your home. Windows and its surrounding materials continue to develop and improve to give you a quality home. 

As window solutions continue to improve and change, older homes can benefit from window replacement or repair so that they are more protected. 

Protect Your Windows With Jacob’s Ladder

Our home cleaning company can help improve and protect the glass windows in your home. We offer window cleaning, gutter cleaning, pressure washing, and window screen repair. Jacob’s Ladder can help inspect your home for damage and improve its structural integrity with home cleaning. We serve the Colorado Springs, CO area with pride because we know that glass windows provide many benefits for your home. 

Our company offers quarterly or annual cleanings to help take the stress off of your shoulders. This ensures your home looks appealing throughout the year without the need to schedule a cleaning appointment every year. Contact us to get an estimate today!