HouseWindows

Casement House Windows

Casement house windows are among the most popular window styles. They are attractive, easy to operate and complement virtually every style of house. Choosing casement house windows allows homeowners to enjoy the fresh air and cool breeze without battling sticky, squeaky, hard-to-open windows.

Casement windows are distinctive because they swing open on a hinge and may not be standard window size. Some simply latch on the inside and can be opened manually when unlocked. Others open with a crank for a more controlled motion. Whether the open in or out is a matter of taste, though inward-openings casement house windows are more common because they allow for outer screens that keep debris and insects from entering the house.

Traditional styles of casement windows--two adjacent windows that open away from one another for a wide opening--evoke romantic images. A single casement can provide that natural ventilation in a smaller space, or a row of single casements in a kitchen gives an interesting visual from the outside. Single casements also commonly flank bay windows, where the center panel is fixed and those on either side are operable.

Two variations on casements house windows are hoppers and awnings. Hoppers are small casements that open on a hinge at the bottom of the window. These are commonly found in bathrooms and basements or other small spaces that require ventilation. Awnings open out on a hinge at the top of window. These are manufactured in a range of sizes, and they are useful for providing fresh air while allowing rainwater and other debris to slide off of them so it does not enter the house.

Maintaining Casement Windows

Many people prefer casement house windows to the equally popular sliders or sashes because of their romanticism and ease of operation. With the sash style of window, the runners or tracks can become dirty and swollen in warm weather, making the window difficult to open. They can be noisy to open, and they need frequent maintenance to keep the tracks clean and lubricated.

Casement house windows, on the other hand, require much less upkeep. Lubricating the hinges regularly keeps them swinging freely, and periodic cleaning keeps them sparkling. But if the casements swing outward, they may require more attention. When a window swings out, it is exposed to the elements. Dirt and moisture can damage the frame, and the paint can fade with sun exposure.

For wood frames, check periodically that they are in good condition: free of cracks and unwarped. Wood frames are classic and high-performing, but they do require occasional painting to stay in good working order. Vinyl is a durable, low-maintenance alternative, but it its modern appearance doesn't suit every homeowner. Vinyl does not require painting and it can simply be wiped down to clean, but it can crack and fade in extreme temperatures and with frequent exposure to sunlight. Also be sure to clean any outside hinges to keep them clear of old paint and rust.

Casements that swing inward allow for the placement of screens that serve as a barrier against flies, mosquitoes and other pests. Make sure the screens are free of holes and tears. Repairing aluminum and fiberglass screens is as easy as applying a patch. Window screens typically need replacing every few years, but the best quality products can last 25 years or longer.

Unlike sliders, which often have bars to block opening from outside the house, casement house windows are more susceptible to break-ins. Flimsy latches can be easily broken, so reinforce the latch with a heavy-duty lock that cannot be forced open. A casement window that operates on a hinge often has a durable locking mechanism. Metal mechanisms are more durable than plastic, but either material in good condition should keep out intruders.

Shopping for Casements

Shopping for casement house windows is like shopping for any window. You must balance quality with price. A window of poor quality will end up costing you much more in the long run for repairs and energy costs. One important aspect of "window-shopping" is energy efficiency.

A window with energy-efficient coatings can save you measurably on your annual heating and cooling bills. A window is essentially a thermal hole in the house, so minimizing heat- and cooling-loss is a top priority for those looking to reduce their bills and their carbon footprints. Look for a casement window with low-e coatings that either reduce solar heat gain (in warm climates) or enhance solar heat gain (in cold climates).

When purchasing casement house windows, look for solid craftsmanship and good building materials. Wood and vinyl are always better bets than aluminum. The unit should feel sturdy with durable locks and well-sealed panes. And installation can make or break the quality casement house windows, so always hire a contractor you can trust.