A casement window is a window that swings out or is connected to its own frame by one or several hinges on the side. They are commonly used singly or in sets inside a larger frame, where they are normally fixed on the outside. Casement windows are commonly held open with a casement finial. However, some windows can be operated by a manual crank or winder. A window that swings out provides better light and air flow than a window that is connected to its side.
Fixing a casement window
While most casement windows are fixed on the outside of a building, some are fixed on the inside. In this type of window, the outer casement hinges and/or sill are fixed outward (outside) while the inner glazing and panes are fixed inward (inside). This type of window is more difficult to repair because it requires removal of the glass panes.
The types of casement windows described above fit a variety of styles and sizes. Casement sash windows are ideal for older homes or buildings that are not in compliance with energy efficiency standards. Casement sash windows also have a higher repair cost than other types of windows. However, they are preferred because they conserve space and increase energy efficiency. Double glazed casement windows (also called transom windows) are a popular choice in older buildings. Transom windows have two panes of glass separated by an air gap; they have greater insulation qualities than single panes and increase the available natural daylight hours.
Some casement windows have a horizontal or vertical hinged release mechanism. This style is very popular in residential applications because it allows for easy cleaning of the windows and for increased ventilation. Hinged openers work well for windows that are located in small kitchens or bathroom areas. A hinged release mechanism that operates only when the door or window is closed reduces the number of times that the operator must open the door or window.
Choosing energy efficient casement windows
Energy efficiency is an important consideration when choosing casement windows. Windows with a sealed channel running from the frame to the seal are more energy efficient because there is no channel running from the bottom of the window to the seal. A seal must be tightly sealed to prevent heat loss.
There are two common styles of casement windows. These are the hinged and swing styles. In a hinged style, the top of the window opens and then the bottom swings outward. A swing style allows the top and the bottom of the window to swing freely, which increases air flow and natural ventilation.
In some casement windows, the glass may be divided into two or three panes. The inner pane is called the “positive” pane and the outer pane is called the “negative” pane. Each has its own operation and can be opened and closed like a chime.
Casement windows can also have a single, double or even triple pane option. Single panes are generally cheaper than a triple pane, but they do not provide as much natural light. Double panes are more expensive and more energy efficient than a triple pane, although the extra cost is worth it if you can afford it. Hinged casement windows are made using a mechanism that allows the opener to swing open and shut like a chime. There are no mechanical components to be considered, so they can be more affordable than other styles of casement windows.
Difference between sliding and casement windows
Sliding windows are similar to casement windows, except they use two panes of glass instead of one. The only difference is that the slats slide horizontally instead of vertically. A sliding window is an excellent choice for older homes because they will not grow with time, unlike casement windows. Because of this, they can increase the value of a home quite significantly. Some buyers prefer sliding windows because they offer more insulation, but keep in mind that the doors will generally require a professional service to maintain.
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that casement windows and sash windows are the same thing. The truth is that they are not. Both styles can open and close, but they are not the same. Sash windows have the frame and louvers and the crank mechanism all built into one panel. These panels open and close in order to allow light and air to enter or exit a room. The crank mechanism is what opens the sash.
Casement windows do not have louvers, so they must be balanced in order to maintain ventilation. However, since there is no louver on a casement window, the door and window are generally hinged together. This allows the person to swing the door inward and outward. However, the sash cannot be opened at an angle, so in the colder months, the door must be propped open with either duct tape or blocks of ice.
