If you’re considering upgrading your windows, look for ones that have Energy Star certification. This guarantees that they provide an airtight seal to reduce drafts and boost your home’s efficiency.
They also offer several benefits that can enhance the comfort of your home or business. Some of these include: unobstructed views, natural ventilation, and a secure lock.
Unobstructed Views
Unlike double hung windows and sliding windows, which have a sash that obstructs the view, casement windows open wide by swinging outward like a door. They are operated using a lever or crank handle, and they fit many home aesthetics, including both contemporary and traditional designs.
Their hinged design also allows them to capture side breezes and channel them into your home. This increased ventilation helps keep your home comfortable, especially during the summer.
Because of their sturdy construction and locking mechanism, casement windows are more secure than other window types. Their sash presses tightly against the frame when closed, making it difficult for intruders to pry them open. This feature also makes them a safe choice for hard-to-reach spaces like above sinks.
Natural Ventilation
With the help of their hinged design, casement windows allow for maximum natural ventilation. They are ideal for hard-to-reach areas of the home like above kitchen sinks and cabinets. You can open them to a full 90 degrees, catching and funneling in those nice breezes that other window types fail to do.
They offer better security than other windows as well. With their locking mechanism and tightly sealed construction, it’s difficult for intruders to pry them open from the outside even with a crowbar.
This is a great feature for those concerned about home safety during emergencies. If your home is on fire and you need to escape, these windows can be opened perpendicularly allowing a clear path for an adult to crawl through. They are available in wood frames for a classic look, vinyl that offers low maintenance and insulation, or aluminum frames that are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. They all have a sleek appearance that complements any custom home design.
Versatility in Design
Unlike traditional double-hung windows that have vertical sashes to separate them, casement windows have a streamlined design and offer unobstructed views of the outside. They hinge at the side and open outward like a door, and can be opened with a hand crank or lever handle. They are ideal for locations that require ventilation, such as bathrooms or kitchens, or for hard-to-reach areas such as above sinks.
In addition to their versatile aesthetic, they also have excellent energy efficiency. They create a tight seal when closed, which minimizes air leakage and drafts, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Whether used alone or built into a Bay or Bow window, Casement windows can blend seamlessly into any home style. They can even be paired with other window types to create an eye-catching combination, providing the best of both worlds with optimal ventilation and unobstructed views. The versatility of these windows also makes them easier to maintain, with fewer components that can collect dirt and dust.
Energy Efficiency
Unlike double-hung and sliding windows that open by moving vertically or horizontally, casement windows hinge on the side and swing outward with a crank handle. This allows them to create a tight seal that minimizes drafts and improves energy efficiency. They also offer unobstructed views and easy access to hard-to-reach areas, like above sinks.
With a wide range of style options, casement windows are ideal for any home aesthetic. They can be installed alone or in combination with other window types to create Bay and Bow windows, as well as built into walls for more space.
The most common frame materials are vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Each option offers different benefits, depending on your budget and preferences. Wood frames offer a natural look and excellent insulation, while vinyl and aluminum are durable, affordable, and low-maintenance. Fiberglass is a premium choice that offers exceptional durability and reduced heat transfer, but it’s more expensive than other options.