Part III: A Trio of Window Options to Boost Your Home’s Appeal – Casement Windows

Casement windows have side hinges and crank outward. They’re perfect for over-the-sink installations, as well as over countertops and appliances. Look for stylish full flip nesting hardware that will allow your windows to open to a 90° angle so the exterior glass pane can be cleaned from inside the home.

Casement windows offer a fresh, open view from your home, and are available in various design and material options. You can pick from French, pushout, flat top, or from colonial, prairie, top down, or no grill designs and from vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, steel, wood, and clad materials. The prettiest casement windows are those designed to maximize the beauty of the outdoors by minimizing the appearance of the window frame and sash.

This window type is one of the top window choices when it comes to energy efficiency, second only to fixed-pane windows. Casement windows have a sash that creates an air-tight seal by pressing tightly against the frame on closing to prevent air leaks. Look for a dual weather-stripping system with compression and primary weather seals to protect against drafts, and go for polyurethane window frame insulation.

Casement windows are fitted with single-lever or tandem latches, which make them easy to open and close. Single-lever casement windows that have a multi-point locking system and heavy-duty metal keepers can also provide added security for your home.

Casement windows can be opened wide—all the way outward—to provide the greatest amount of natural ventilation and light. It’s also nice that casement windows don’t have a center joint that can mar a really nice view from inside the house.

Each window type has its share of advantages as well as disadvantages. Because casement windows crank outwards, though, they sometimes pose a few more challenges than other window types. Consider these:

• Casement windows can’t be fitted with air-conditioners; double-hung windows are more suitable for this purpose.
• Casement windows aren’t designed for screens or storm windows, either. You’ll need to find casement windows that crank inwards if you want to get screens installed.
• If your house has a sidewalk around the perimeter, people can walk into open crank-out windows.

Whichever window type you opt for, however, the important thing is to look for quality windows. Consider carefully the differences in window types and determine what suits your needs best. Keep in mind that the cheapest option will rarely be the best; what you want to find is the best value for your money, especially since you’ll need to live with them for a long time to come. Choose carefully, and choose wisely.