Clean Views W/O the Center Bar!

Do I Really Need a Center Bar on My Porch Window? (Not with Xtend!)

Ever noticed that vertical strip running through the middle of a porch window sash? That’s a center bar—also known as a reinforcement bar, support bar, or vertical divider—and while it might look like a handle, it’s not.

In every other vinyl 4-track window system, a center bar is required in the middle of each sash at most widths. It’s a non-negotiable feature added to make up for lower-cost frame parts, like flexible sash rails and plastic corners.

Xtend doesn’t need it.

Xtend Windows Go Up to 42" Wide—No Center Bar Required

Our sashes are engineered with:

• Rigid, reinforced sash frames

• Cast aluminum corners

• Interlocking nylon tracks

That combo gives you rock-solid performance—no reinforcement bar needed—on windows up to 42" wide.

No visual clutter.
No bar mistaken for a handle.
Just a clear, wide-open view.

Why Other Brands Always Include It

Most other systems use thinner sash profiles and plastic corner keys to keep costs down. But that also means the sash can bow or twist at wider sizes—so they’re forced to add a support bar (sometimes called a meeting rail or vertical sash divider) to most windows. You don’t get a choice. It’s baked into the design.

Xtend uses stronger parts and fewer of them—so you get a cleaner look and better performance, right from the start.
Sure, it might cost a little more up front—but you’re investing in windows that are built to last, not patching weaknesses with extra hardware.

But What If You Want a Center Bar?

If you love the look of divided light windows, or are trying to match the style of nearby double-hungs, we can absolutely add center bars by request. It’s all custom—so you get the style you want, not just what the system requires.

Why It Matters

✔️ Cleaner look with no vertical bars in your view
✔️ Easier to clean and operate
✔️ Better airflow
✔️ More design flexibility for your layout

Have a wider opening? We’ve got two great options:

• We’ll add a clean, built-in center bar if needed, or

• Mull multiple Xtend windows together for even bigger spans—no bulky posts required. [Check out our post on mulled units here.]

Not sure what’s best for your space?
Send us your rough opening sizes—or even a quick sketch—and we’ll help you find the clearest, cleanest setup for your porch.