When it comes to choosing windows for your home, there are more options than ever before. With so many choices, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Two of the most popular window styles on the market today are SDL (simulated divided light) windows and GBG (grille between glass) windows.

Both have their unique benefits, but which one is right for your home? Let’s take a closer look at each type of window to help you make an informed decision.

This image shows SDL on the left and GBG on the right.

Which Window is Right for You?

The type of window you choose for your home should depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for windows that are easy to care for, GBG windows might be the right choice for you. If you’re looking for windows that will add value to your home, SDL windows might be the better option.

SDL or Simulated Divided Light Windows

SDL windows are a type of window that features multiple panes of glass divided by narrow metal grids. These windows are designed to mimic the look of traditional divided light windows, which were popular in homes during the 19th and early 20th centuries. SDL windows are available in a variety of styles, including single-hung, double-hung, casement, and awning. SDL windows can be ordered with different grid patterns to create a unique look for your home.

Benefits of SDL Windows:

The biggest benefit of SDL windows is their aesthetic appeal. These windows add character and charm to any home. With the grilles on the outside of the glass, they don’t disappear with the reflection. SDL windows can be a great choice if you’re looking for windows that will add value to your home.

Drawbacks of SDL Windows:

One of the main drawbacks of SDL windows is their cost. These windows are typically slightly more expensive than GBG windows. Because the grilles are on the outside, they may be more difficult to clean as the bars get in the way of the window wiper.

GBG or Grilles between the Glass Windows

GBG windows are a type of window that features a single pane of glass with narrow metal grids sandwiched between two layers of glass. These windows provide good energy efficiency and require little maintenance. GBG windows are available in a variety of styles, including single-hung, double-hung, casement, and awning. GBG windows can be ordered with different grid patterns to create a unique look for your home.

Benefits of GBG Windows:

The biggest benefit of GBG windows is their low maintenance. GBG windows can be a great choice if you’re looking for windows that are easy to care for.

With grilles between glass (GBG) windows, the grilles are attached to the inner surface between glass panes. This design makes it easier to clean your windows both inside and out because you don’t have to clean each section individually.

Drawbacks of GBG Windows:

One of the main drawbacks of GBG windows is they don’t provide as much character as SDL windows, which can be a drawback if you’re looking for windows that will add value to your home.

It also means the dividers can never be removed or changed.

This also makes the dividers themselves less visible, especially from the outside. The grilles are more visible from the inside looking out vs. the outside looking in. So, if you want the window style to be more subtle, or if you prefer a cleaner look, GBG windows may be a better choice.

What I chose for my own Home

For my own home, I chose MOSTLY SDL. I wanted this house to look like an old farmhouse and I chose the proportions of the windows to be tall and narrow for that reason. Large sheets of glass and wide header spans would not have been used in a historic farmhouse. GBG also was not an option back when the original farmhouses would have been built in this area.

I do have 2 exceptions where we didn’t use SDL.

On the back Living Room windows, I chose fixed glass, no dividers to keep the view open and unobstructed. I did maintain the tall and narrow proportions though.

The other place I didn’t use SDL was in the shower (and His Closet because those 2 windows are kind of a pair on the exterior. ). I chose GBG for the shower for easy cleaning.

I knew the shower window would likely need cleaning more often than the others and to make it easier, I chose GBG. These windows face the side of the house so the visible grids from the exterior weren’t as important as on the front.

These are GBG. As you can see in the pic on the right, when the reflection hits the window, the grille almost disappears.

To Sum it all Up

Both simulated divided light (SDL) and grille between the glass (GBG) windows have their own unique benefits that can make a big difference in the look, feel, and functionality of your home.

When deciding which type of window is right for you, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved—including your budget, your style preferences, and your needs in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance.

Simulated divided light windows offer an authentic, old-world charm that is hard to match. These windows feature multiple panes of glass set in metal grids, which give the window a traditional look. If you’re looking for windows that will add value and character to your home, SDL windows may be the right choice for you.

Grilles between glass windows are a more modern take on the divided light window. These windows feature grilles that are permanently affixed to the inside surface between the glass panes. This makes cleaning easier and more efficient. GBG windows may be a better choice if you’re looking for low-maintenance windows, or if you prefer a cleaner look.

No matter which type of window you choose, make sure you do your research so you can find the best possible option for your home.