There are many different types of windows on the market, but homeowners often choose traditional double-hung windows simply because that is the type they are most familiar with. However, casement windows offer a lot of advantages over the more common double-hung varieties and other types of windows. Here is a look at everything you need to know about casement windows.
What Is a Casement Window?
A casement window is a type of window that hinges on the side and opens outward to either the left or right. Also known as crank windows, they are operated using a handle that cranks their supporting arm outward.
Why is this beneficial, and what makes these windows stand out from other types?
They Are the Only Type of Window That Opens Completely
Casement windows are the only type of windows on the consumer market that can be opened completely. When you open a casement window, you are essentially lifting its sash away, almost off the house; it remains attached to the house on just one thin side. The only way to open a window more completely would be removing its sash entirely.
Meanwhile, all other types of windows open halfway at most. Traditional double-hung windows can have either the top or bottom half open, but are never fully open, while sliding windows can have just one side open at a time.
They Provide a Clear View
Another big benefit of casement windows is the fact that they offer the clear and unobstructed view of a picture window yet can be opened as desired. In fact, they are the only type of window that can be opened yet still display a completely unobstructed sheet of glass when they are closed.
All other types of windows have at least a single strip dividing the window. For example, single-hung and double-hung windows are made up of two sashes and always have a horizontal strip in the middle, while slider windows contain a vertical strip. Although picture windows do not contain a strip, they cannot be opened.
They Offer Superior Ventilation
Casement windows are a great way of optimizing air flow in your home. Their open sash can serve as a flap that essentially funnels breezes into the home. This is particularly useful for homes that are situated very close to neighbors’ homes that may make it harder to catch a breeze. The sash of a casement window can be thought of as scooping air into the home.
They Are More Secure Than Other Types of Windows
Even the most secure window is not completely foolproof; a very dedicated intruder can always find a way to break the glass in a window if they are determined to get into the home. However, compared to other window types, casement windows are among the most difficult to break into. This is because when you break the glass in other types of windows, it is easy to fully open them. Consider the example of a double-hung window. When the glass is broken, an intruder only has to reach inside and turn the latch on the lower sash. Then, they can lift the sash and slide the window open to get into the home without needing to navigate any broken glass.
Casement windows, however, can only be opened when you turn the window crank. Although an intruder who breaks the glass will have access to this crank, it will be very challenging to turn it while reaching through broken glass. In addition, homeowners can make their casement windows even more difficult to breach by taking the crank off entirely and storing it nearby rather than leaving it attached to the window.
They Are Easy to Clean
Because casement windows can be opened up to a 90-degree angle, it is very easy to clean both the inside and outside of the window from inside your home. This also makes these types of windows safer to clean than other types when they are on upper floors of the home.
They Are One of the Most Energy-Efficient Types of Windows Available
Casement windows have a much tighter seal than other types of windows. This means they are one of the most energy-efficient varieties of windows on the market. They close tightly and lock at multiple points to create a weather-tight seal that minimizes the infiltration of air. This means that switching to casement windows can provide you with savings on your energy bills while reducing the demand on your HVAC system.
Schedule an Appointment with the Northern Virginia Window Replacement Professionals
Windows play an important role in your home’s comfort and appearance, and it is important to consider all of the available options carefully when choosing the right windows for your home. If you are looking to change your home’s windows, the experts at Adelphia Exteriors can provide valuable guidance on the right models to suit your needs. Contact us today or call our team at (703) 386-7357 to request a free window replacement estimate.