Why do we love casement windows? It’s simple.
Casement windows might be the most underrated window style, but we can’t help loving these windows. Casement windows are the easiest window to open, the easiest window style to clean, and the most energy efficient movable window.
What is a casement window?
A casement window is hinged on either side and opens outward using a crank handle. This means instead of lifting or pulling your window open, like you would a double hung window, you can simply use the crank at the bottom to easily ‘crank’ the window open. In addition, because casement windows open wider than any other window style, they give you the maximum amount of airflow possible. Read more about what makes casement windows different from slider windows and other window styles here.
A brief history of casement windows.
The casement window was the first movable or operable window ever built, dating back to medieval times. Very early metal casement windows were constructed using iron, with lead lattice work across the glass. However, by the Victorian era most windows were made of wood.
It was British and German custom to have these windows opening outward, until later on when the French casement was developed. French casement windows typically have two window sash, or two movable parts, that open inward. In the United States, these windows were adapted to give access to balconies and patios, and are more commonly known as French doors or casement doors.
Energy efficient casement windows lower energy bills.
Just like most vinyl windows, casements are extremely energy efficient. When properly installed, energy efficient casement windows can help minimize your heating, cooling, and lighting costs. And, according to energy.gov, they generally have lower air leakage rates than sliding windows because the sash closes by pressing against the frame.
Casements windows are perfect for any room.
Typically, casement windows are found in hard to reach places in a house, such as above a kitchen sink. But these windows can really be used in any room of a home where you want a lot of fresh air. See examples of how casements can be used in any room in Simonton’s window gallery.
Casement windows can also be paired with other window styles. For example, they can often be found flanking a picture window in a window configuration. Or, more commonly, they will be added to the sides of a bay, bow, or garden window.
Customize casement window hardware and style.
Like all of Simonton’s window styles, casements can come outfitted in a variety of color, grid, and hardware options so that they’ll fit seamlessly into any home’s décor. Whether you’re looking for a bold brick red to add curb appeal to your home, or a more subtle light oak woodgrain to match your kitchen windows to your cabinets, there are a number of customization options so you can create the look you desire.
Simonton casement window crank handles can be ordered in seven different finishes, so you can match the window hardware with the rest of the hardware in your home. Here are a few casement window hardware options:
Wood casement windows vs. vinyl casement windows.
There are so many different window frame materials to choose from and chances are you’ve also encountered a lot of conflicting information about these choices. So which window material is best for casement windows?
When the comparison is wood windows vs. vinyl windows, vinyl clearly wins. Still have your heart set on the look of real wood? Let’s take a closer look:
Vinyl retains its finish – there’s no need to sand, re-stain, or repaint!
Vinyl won’t pit, peel or flake like wood.
Vinyl holds up to repeated use, maintaining its beauty year after year.
Beautiful and realistic interior wood laminates are available in a variety of popular woodgrains such as oak, cherry, and maple. Allowing you to have the look of wood without the maintenance.
Casement window repair is easy.
How easy is it to repair casement windows? We’ll show you.
Many window experts don’t give casements their due diligence because casement window hardware is more complex than the hardware on a double or single hung window. However, with minimal care and maintenance, casement window hardware can last a lifetime. And, if your window ever has issues, Simonton is here to help. Simonton Windows & Doors has an industry-leading casement window warranty, so you will never have to worry about issues with your windows.
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