Unlike sliding windows, casement windows open outward using hinges and operate with a hand-crank. They offer a sleek aesthetic and excellent ventilation while cutting energy costs.
When closed, they seal tightly to keep water and air out of your home. They also come in many design options like privacy glass. Learn about your full range of options during a free in-home design consultation.
Energy Efficiency
The frame material you choose plays a significant role in the cost of your casement windows. Vinyl frames are low maintenance and energy efficient, while wood offers a classic aesthetic and is a great insulator. Aluminum frames are also durable and sleek, but they tend to conduct heat more readily.
Another factor that influences your window’s price is the type of glass you select. Single-pane windows are the cheapest option, while double or triple-pane windows offer better insulation and lower energy costs.
In addition to these factors, the installation method can also affect your windows’ price. New construction installation is generally less expensive than replacing an existing window, but both options have their own sets of up-front and ongoing costs. If you’re installing your windows in an existing home, your contractor will need to remove the old windows and complete any required repairs. This can increase your initial windows Cayce SC cost, but it will likely be offset by lower maintenance costs in the future.
Easy Operation
A casement window’s sash hinges on the side and opens like a door, providing top-to-bottom ventilation. They’re one of the best options for improving your home’s air quality and offering gorgeous views. They’re available in a wide range of styles and colors, from classic grids to prairie-style patterns. You can also add your choice of hardware finish, including brushed nickel and oil rubbed bronze.
You can choose from a variety of frames for your casement windows, including vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Wood offers a traditional aesthetic, while vinyl is affordable and easy to maintain. Aluminum is a good option for harsh climates, but it’s not as efficient as wood or vinyl.
The size of your casement windows will significantly impact their cost, as well as the glass type and treatments you select. Energy-efficient glass such as low-E coatings or window tinting can help lower your energy bills. However, they may increase your initial investment a little bit.
Cleanliness
With regular cleaning, casement windows look as good as new decades after installation. This window replacement type opens outward like a door and uses a crank to operate, making it easy to clean both sides of the glass with simple household cleaners and paper towels or newspaper. In fact, many homeowners prefer to use newspaper over paper towels in their window cleaning due to the dense fibers that prevent lint buildup.
The hardware on your casement window should also be inspected regularly for wear and tear. If the weatherstripping becomes worn, it could let in draughts and reduce your home’s energy efficiency.
For a sleek appearance that complements many home colors and styles, consider bronze hardware for your new casement windows. This dark metal finish is a sophisticated choice for most frame colors including white, cream, gray, black, tan, brown, and wood tones. When cleaned regularly, it can develop a lovely luster that coordinates well with most exterior paint colors.
Security
The hinges on casement windows open outward like doors with the simple crank of a handle, offering maximum ventilation and views. A strong locking point and tight seal make them one of the most secure window options for your home. You can choose from a wide range of privacy options including frosted, tinted, and textured glass to block out unwanted light.
They’re also more difficult to open from the outside, making them a more difficult target for burglars. Additionally, some modern casement windows are built with a folding handle that tucks away into a recessed opening when not in use, creating an even more secure and stylish profile.
However, improper installation or paint buildup may prevent your windows from closing flush with their frame, allowing an intruder to pry them open. Be sure to inspect your windows on a regular basis to ensure they close and lock properly. You can also install aftermarket locks to boost security.