Casement Window: Types, Parts, Advantages & DisAdvantages

Casement windows are the super contemporary, simple styled, vertical rectangles with a single window pane. What sets them apart from other types of windows is a way of their operation. They are hinged at the side, and you almost always need to open them outward. To use this type of window, you should use a simple locking handle instead of a standard crank.

I like this particular model since these windows are versatile and practical, and it is possible making them the way they fit almost any height and width. Plus, there is a wide choice of material, sizes, and finishes you can choose, depending on your preferences and budget. Nowadays, you can find these windows made of wood, fiberglass, vinyl, and aluminum. Let’s take a closer look.

Types of Casement Windows

Even though all casement windows have the same components, you can find three types of them on the market, including:

1. Single frame casement windows

Most people choose this type of casement window. It has a single frame with window panes separated by wooden strips. Depending on the way of mounting, you can open it outwards or inwards.

Benefits of this type of windows are:

• Durability – It is the type of casement windows that last long thanks to the frame being hinged on the side.
• Ventilation – Since you can open this window widely, you will get superior ventilation in the room.
• Affordability – The installation of this window is more affordable compared to other types of casement windows you can find on the market.

2. French Casement Windows (Double casement windows)

This type of casement window contains two window frames hinged on the sides with window hinges. You can open them towards left and right, and assembly them in the middle. Keep in mind that the cost of installing this particular window is a bit higher.

Benefits of this type of windows include:

• Ventilation and sunlight – Since it is large and wide, this window will let a lot of light inside and keep your home well-ventilated.
• View – If you install this window, you will enjoy the unrestricted view when open it.
• Low maintenance – You won’t need much effort and time to keep these windows clean.
• Emergency exit – Thanks to its size, this type of casement windows is an excellent solution for an emergency exit route when necessary.

3. Push-out casement windows

You can find this type of casement windows in both single and double styles. You will need to use a handle instead of a crank to open it. Unfortunately, this model is not quite popular despite its many advantages:

• Safety – Thanks to a multi-point locking system, this window will increase the security of your home even when tilted open.
• Ventilation – It provides superior air circulation.
• Style – Its classic lines fit most architectural styles.
• Maintenance – You can clean this type of casement window smoothly since you can open it inwardly from the inside of the house.
• Minimal hardware – Thanks to this feature, it is durable and can’t break easily despite wet or windy weather.

Parts of a Casement Window

Like every other type of windows, casement windows have a few standard parts, including:

• Window frame – It is the outer edge that is attached to a wall.
• Casing – It is a decorative part of the window covering the space between the window frame and the wall.
• The sash – It is a movable part of the window that holds window panes. It is always made of the same material as a frame, including wood, aluminum, and vinyl.
• Crank handle – You can find this piece at the bottom of a window and use it to open the window when turning it in one direction. Also, you should set the handle in the opposite direction to close the window.
• Hinges – They are attached on one side of the sash and enable the opening of the window.
• Latches – Some models contain these parts that secure the closed window and prevent its uncontrolled opening.
• Stays – These horizontal hardware bars are parts of many casement windows. They support the window when it is wide open and prevent it from damaging during windy days.

Advantages of Casement Windows

This type of windows has a few advantages over others, especially a single hung window and sliding window. Let’s see.

Modern

Most owners of traditional homes or those made in that particular style prefer the classic look of the single hung window and double-hung models.

On the other hand, casement windows provide a modern aesthetic and contemporary style. You can find these with divided panes and the option with wide-open window panes providing an unobstructed view.

Stylish

The design of casement windows was developed during medieval, and you can see them on the buildings from different times of architectural history. They were highly popular in the English Tudor and Spanish Colonial revival periods.

However, these windows are also an elegant part of contemporary architectural styles. More and more people enjoy their clear lines and simple geometry.

Versatile

It is a unique and versatile type of windows for residential homes. It is possible to design them to suit almost any style and the type of window frame. Also, you can pick out sizes and colors to suit your home style and your own taste.

Simple to use

Thanks to their configuration, the process of opening and closing casement windows is not complicated at all. It is enough to turn the crank and operate the window locks, which makes them an excellent choice for everyone, especially disabled persons. Moreover, you can pick out the model with automatic openers if needed.

Clear view

Since casement windows are sizable, you will get an unobstructed view regardless of whether they are open or closed. Plus, they will allow a lot of sunlight into your home.

Excellent ventilation

These windows are open top to bottom. You can keep them open all day long throughout spring and summer for maximum ventilation.

Excellent insulation and save energy

Thanks to the sealed window panes, these models provide high energy efficiency an excellent level of insulation. The principle is not complicated and implies that the window sash presses tightly onto all sides of the frame and the seals.

As a result, casement windows efficiently prevent cold air from getting in and keep your home warm during winter months by reducing heat loss. That means your energy bills will be significantly lower.

Secure

If you choose double-glazed casement windows, you will get superior security for your home.

Excellent solution for egress

Since casement windows are sizable, you can use it as an emergency egress (rescue opening) in bedrooms and the basement of your house. In such a case, your window needs to has at least 5.7 sq. ft. (0.5 m2) of unobstructed opening if it is located on the upper floors. For ground-floor windows, it is enough to provide an unobstructed opening of 5 sq. ft. (0.45 m2).

Plus, the vertical orientation of most casements is practical. Therefore, it is not too complicated to provide the necessary height requirements of 24 inches (61 cm) and the minimum width of 20 inches (50.8 cm).

Disadvantages of Casement Windows

As you might guess, casement windows are not perfect, and there are a few disadvantages you should consider before buying them.

Size is limited

Since you open casement windows outwards, you should pick out the frame able to support its overall weight. Unfortunately, it is a limiting feature, and you need to be aware of the dimensions and the weight of the window you can use.

A lot of breakable mechanical parts

Most casement windows have mechanical pieces such as a crank, which open and close the sash. You may have a problem with this part since it often breaks. Additionally, stripped gears can freeze up or rust. In such a case, you will need to replace the entire mechanism.

You may face some maintenance problems related to the sliding arm and track, as well. Once they fill with dirt and lubricant, you will have trouble to open and close your window.

The window locks need to be in excellent condition to keep your window locked and save energy. That is the only way to keep your window adequately closed.

Not compatible with other devices

It is impossible to combine casements with screens or storm windows because they open. Besides, standard window air conditioners don’t fit this type of window.

Screens need to be placed inside

Since the sashes of this window open outward, you need to install the insect screens inside the room. That arrangement can be impractical, especially if you have small kids.

Reflect sunlight

The window panes can reflect sunlight directly into the house in some periods of the day. The reason is the angle of the opened sashes. If you live in a sunny region, casement windows are not an excellent option for your home.

Expensive

Unfortunately, casement windows are more expensive than double-hung windows, mostly because of the more complicated mechanical operations.