In Case You Were Wondering, Casement Windows Are Far From Outdated
When you think of modern windows, what style of window comes to mind? Chances are, you’re picturing a double-hung window with two sashes mounted vertically in the frame. Casement windows, a style that hinges open to the side with a crank, are sometimes thought of as outdated or old-fashioned.
But this could not be further from the truth. Homeowners everywhere are re-embracing casement windows for a number of reasons.
Energy Efficiency
One of the factors that determines a window’s energy efficiency is how much air leaks in between the frame and the window sash. Since casement windows lock tightly into the frame, very little air seeps in.
In fact, the only style of window that experiences less air leakage is a fixed window-and those simply aren’t an option when you want your window to open. Less air leakage equals lower heating and cooling bills, which are good for your wallet and for the planet.
Safety and Security
Unfortunately, a lot of burglars enter homes by prying open windows. With double-hung windows, people can sometimes break in by sliding a pry bar between the sash and frame and lifting the window up. Casement windows, however, are designed with special, hook-shaped locks that insert directly into the frame.
To break in through a casement window, a thief would have to actually break the glass. And of course you can prevent that from occurring by choosing tempered or laminated glass for your replacement windows, which a burglar would have to hit repeatedly, making a lot of noise, to break.
Easy Operation
There are some areas in the home where it’s just hard to reach a window. For example, leaning across the kitchen counter to reach a window can be tough. A double-hung window or sliding window may be impossible to open in this situation unless you want to stand on a stool or chair. However, casement windows open with a little crank, so you don’t have to reach as far.
Casement windows also work well when your windows are placed higher on the wall. The crank is located at the bottom of the window sill, so it’s easy to reach. Since all you have to do is turn the crank, even those with muscle weakness should be able to open and close them.
Great Ventilation
Since casement windows open to the side, they’re great at catching cross breezes. The open window essentially traps the air and “pushes” it into the home. This really comes in handy during the hot St. Louis summer, especially if you don’t have air conditioning and are relying on windows to keep your home cool. Also, since the entire window opens (vertically), each window lets in more air.
Casement windows are compatible with screens, so you can leave them open in the summer without worrying about flies and other pests coming in. Keep in mind, however, that the screen is generally fixed in place. You cannot slide it up and down as you can with many hung windows.
Better View
Do you have a beautiful view out your window? Maybe you want to look out and see your landscaping, or perhaps there’s a pretty pond across the street. With casement windows, you can enjoy more of the view.
Though you can have them designed with grilles if you prefer, casement windows generally consist of one big, unobstructed pane of glass. There are no plastic or vinyl muntins across the middle as with hung or sliding windows.
If the time has come to replace your windows, don’t write off casement windows with the assumption that they’re outdated. Thanks to their energy efficiency, ventilation abilities, safety, and ease of operation, they’re really making a comeback. Contact Fischer Window and Door Store to get a quote for replacement casement windows for your home.