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What is a 'Reveal' on a Window or Door?


In its simplest form, a window reveal is the timber surround of the window unit; you might refer to it as the windowsill (although technically, only the bottom horizontal component of a window is called a ‘sill’).

What does a window reveal look like?

Basically, a reveal is the timber surround of a window that the window frame itself is attached to.

Imagine this: if you sit a small pot plant against the window in your loungeroom so it can get some extra sun, you’ll likely rest the plant on the flat timber edge that juts out slightly away from the glass. This space is the window reveal.

While that’s a basic description of a reveal, the appearance of a window reveal can change depending on the type of reveal you use; they come in a range of different styles for various applications.


What is the purpose of a window reveal?

A window reveal is used to fix the window itself into the stud wall frame. The main purpose of a reveal—regardless of which type you choose—is to provide extra support to the aluminium frame of the window unit.

Did you know: There are some instances where you can install a window without needing a window reveal for additional stability. However, around 90% of the time you see a window, there’ll be some kind of window reveal in the configuration.

While the fundamental purpose of all window reveals is to provide stability, each type is suited to a different function.

What are the main types of window reveal?

Let’s take a look at the most common types of window reveals, and the scenarios where you’d likely choose each one.


Boxed window reveal

The most common type of reveal is ‘boxed’. In this configuration, there is a window reveal fitted to all four sides of the window. That is, the flat timber surface jutting out from the glass exists on every ‘side’ of the window.


When would you use a boxed window reveal?

A boxed window reveal is generally used when you intend to fit architraves around the full perimeter of the window.


No Bottom Reveal (also referred to as NBR)

The next most popular type of reveal is the No Bottom Reveal. An NBR configuration is similar to a boxed configuration, but with the timber reveal removed from the bottom of the window.

Did you know: each side of a window has a specific technical name. The vertical ‘sides’ of a window are called jambs; the horizontal top is called the head; and the horizontal bottom is the sill.

*This article sourced from the A&L website



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