Comparison Guide: Casement Windows vs Double Hung Windows

Comparison Guide: Casement Windows vs Double Hung Windows

Casement Windows and Double Hung Windows

In this article, you will learn…

Over the years, window designs continue to change depending on a variety of aesthetic requirements. Sliding, casement, tilt and turn, double or single hung, awning and shutter windows are just a few types available in the market. With so many options, one must wonder which is the best and most efficient fit for my home? With the variations in materials and styles available, the choice can be hard. However, with a few priority factors, making a choice becomes quite easy.

Two of the most common types of windows are casement and double hung styles. Not only are they beautiful but also come with their own unique set of benefits. The casement windows vs. double hung windows debate is a challenging one. At the end of the day, the choice comes down to a customer’s personal preferences. Nonetheless, this article will lay out some facts to allow anyone considering these two window types so that they can make a better decision.

I. Casement Windows

Ideal for almost any part of the house, casement windows are a distinct choice. They are available in a diverse range of materials with beautiful designs that add class to any room. Consequently, they are one of the most preferable choices when it comes to picking home windows.

1. What Are Casement Windows?

Casement windows have hinges on one side which allow them to swing open like doors. The opening can have different positions depending on the size of the window. In a casement window the sash swings towards the outside of the house giving the home a more spacious feel. These windows use a crank mechanism and open at a 90-degree angle to allow light and wind inside the home. A casement window earns maximum style points due to the unique designs in which they are available.

① Casement Window Material

Casement windows are available in a host of different materials. What’s more is that every material has its own characteristics. Moreover, when deciding, it is crucial to consider factors like the location of your house and prevalent weather. These elements determine how effective your respective window material will be.

  • Aluminum Casement Windows
  • Aluminum casement window

    Aluminum is one of the most common choices especially in areas that have humid weather. These windows are extremely low maintenance and besides occasional cleaning they require no upkeep. The resistance of aluminum casement windows to rusting, cracks or splitting is high. Furthermore, aluminum as a material for windows will hold its appearance for a long period of time. Casement windows made from aluminum can last up to 40 or 45 years on average.

  • Vinyl/UPVC Casement Windows
  • UPVC/Vinyl casement window

    Vinyl or PVC windows are another preferable choice when picking windows for your home. They are made from Polyvinyl Chloride which is a type of plastic. In fact, this material is extremely durable and long-lasting with an average life-span of 25 to 35 years. In addition to being robust, vinyl windows have better warranties. PVC casement windows are relatively easy to maintain, are affordable and last but not the least, they are energy efficient.

    ② Casement Window Style

    Casement windows are available in a vast variety of styles and designs. They are made to compliment any interior or exterior design effortlessly. When it comes to picking an aesthetically pleasing casement window, there are several types available.

  • Single Frame Casement Windows
  • A single frame casement window has one door. These windows can come in a lot of different sizes. Ultimately, the choice lies with the customer but it can also depend on the space available and sometimes the budget. Single Frame casement windows are common in living rooms, bedrooms and even bathrooms because of their unique design.

  • French Casement Windows
  • A French casement window, like a French door, has two panes that swing towards the outside of the home to form a large open space. French casement window panels swing open concurrently because there is no central support in the window frame, providing twice the airflow and an unobstructed view.

  • Push-Out Casement Windows
  • Offering both elegance and ease of use, push out French casement windows are the ultimate style choice. Available in both modern and traditional designs, these windows are a welcome addition to any room. Mostly available in double frames, this type of casement window is ideal for a living room that overlooks a garden or where you want a lot of light to enter.

    Offering both elegance and ease of use, push out French casement windows are the ultimate style choice. Available in both modern and traditional designs, these windows are a welcome addition to any room. Mostly available in double frames, this type of casement window is ideal for a living room that overlooks a garden or where you want a lot of light to enter.

    2. Pros and Cons of Casement Windows

    Casement windows have their benefits but they also have some drawbacks. It is vital to factor both sides when deciding because replacing windows can be a hassle in time, efforts, and costs.

    Pros of Casement Windows
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    Unhindered view of the outside: Since the swing open with hinges on the outer frames, casement windows can have no support in the middle giving a beautiful view from inside,

    Provide power efficiency: Casement windows can be open or shut as needed. This is the reason why they are the most energy efficient of all window types.

    Secure yet contemporary: The locking mechanism on casement windows is quite effective. With multi-point locking the level of security on these windows is top notch. At the same time, there is no compromise on quality and luxury with these windows,

    Low maintenance: The biggest advantage of casement windows is that they are low maintenance because they are usually rust and corrosion free,

    Offer the best ventilation: Given their style and size, casement windows are the best when it comes to ventilation. They allow maximum passage of air bringing the pleasant environment from outside to inside.

    Cons of Casement Windows
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    Do not offer screens or storm windows: Casement windows are not a great option in areas with risks of extreme weather conditions as storm shields or screens cannot be installed within them,

    Relatively expensive: In terms of pricing, casement windows cost more than double hung, fixed, or sliding windows. Therefore, they are one of the more expensive options on the market,

    Not ideal for air conditioner installation: If you want to install an air conditioner, casement windows are not the right choice as they open outward and are not able to hold a cooling unit effectively,

    Somewhat inconvenient shape: As they open outward, the sash can cause inconvenience at times especially when you are passing on the outside or have them close to another wall,

    Might mess up the interior of the house: Since they have significant openings, dust, insects and other elements can easily enter the hoist, damaging your furniture.

    3. How to Install Casement Windows

    Casement window installation is a professional job and unless you have some experience, it is better to have a technician to do it. Still, if you are willing to give it a go on your own, here’s how:

    1. 1
      Start by making sure that the frame is watertight. You can use an aluminum tape or water seal gasket depending on the material of your windows;
    2. 2
      Next, level the opening so that the window sits straight;
    3. 3
      Now you can place your window in the opening and fix it with a nailing flange;
    4. 4
      You will have to nail the window in place to make sure that it does not move;
    5. 5
      After you nail the window, look at the crevices and determine that the window sits flush with the frame. After this, usually another layer of water sealant needs to be put in place;
    6. 6
      The second last step is to install the internal hardware which will form the façade of the window;
    7. 7
      Now you have your window in place and can start to finalize the work.

    II. Double Hung Windows

    Another one of the more common window types is double hung windows. Single hung windows are also available and have their own usage but double hung windows are more practical. Let’s discuss them in more detail and find out the answer to the casement windows vs. double hung windows discussion.

    1. What Are Double Hung Windows?

    Where casement windows open outward, double hung windows slide up and down. They are known as double hung because both panes can slide individually. These windows although limit accessibility even when open are the most popular type in American homes. They offer a wide variety of customization options and come in vibrant colors.

    ① Double Hung Window Material

    Much like casement windows, double hung windows are also available in different materials. Wood, aluminum, and PVC and some of the more common choices across the world. Which material is best for your home can depend.

  • Aluminum Double Hung Windows
  • Aluminum windows are preferable in terms of material strength. These windows are rigid and robust offering much more in terms of durability. Aluminum is an overall more favored material for windows across the world because of its unique properties. Newer materials like PVC are slowly rising in usage but aluminum still remains at the top.

    Aluminum Double Hung Window
  • Vinyl/UPVC Double Hung Windows
  • Vinyl/UPVC Double Hung Window

    PVC double hung windows offer unlimited customization options because of the surface. Not only are they affordable but also low maintenance. Energy efficiency is another strong point for double hung windows. While they don’t offer more ventilation than casement windows, they are still a popular choice in houses.

    ② Double Hung Window Style

    In a debate of casement windows vs. double hung windows, the latter takes superiority because they offer more styles. In all casement window frames, the sash only opens outward. With double hung windows there are several more styles to choose from.

  • Double Hung Tilt Windows
  • These window types are more common in places where more ventilation is needed. Double hung tilt windows have two panes which can move up and down but they can also tilt outward to offer more air flow. Both panes can operate independently to provide

  • Up and Down Sliding Windows
  • The up and down sliding option on double hung windows is more popular because of their aesthetic appeal. Even with their limited sizes, these windows are used abundantly throughout homes the world over.

    2. Pros and Cons of Double Hung Windows

    Window styles have their own distinctive characteristics. Some are good and some are not. Depending on customers and their preferences these advantages or disadvantages can be significant or not.

    Pros of Double Hung Windows
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    Significant ventilation: When we talk about casement windows vs. double hung windows, the later one gives much more in terms of ventilation because their design is set in such a way.

    Visually appealing and adaptable to surroundings: The level of personalization in colors, textures, and styles which double hung windows offer make them more appealing to the eye. This also makes them a better fit for any interior or exterior theme.

    Easy maintenance: Much like casement windowsdouble hung windows are easier to maintain and keep clean for a long time.

    Safety in operations: Double hung windows are safer to operate in comparison to casement windows. They are also safer in extreme weathers because there is no fear of them slamming shut.

    Energy efficiency and reliability: Power efficiency quotient for both casement and double hung windows is quite high. Therefore, they are popular in homes.

    Cons of Double Hung Windows
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    Expensive: Double hung windows are relatively more costly and their installation cost is also higher.

    Air Leakage: These windows are prone to air leakage because the seals on these windows are less effective.

    3. How to Install Double Hung Windows?

    Double hung windows like casement windows require a significant level of professional expertise. Before you take on a do-it-yourself installation, make sure you understand the technicalities. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to install double hung windows:

    1. 1
      Take complete measurements of the rough window frame and order the relevant size windows for the purpose. Double hung windows can take between two to four weeks to arrive. If you are ordering custom sizes they may take longer;
    2. 2
      If you are replacing already installed windows, the next step is to remove the older pane. Start by removing the inside stop and bottom sash using a hammer and chisel. Next, take out the center stop and top sash. If you are installing a new window the process starts with evening out the rough frame;
    3. 3
      Rough fit and measure the new windows inside the frame. Be sure not to use any adhesive at this point because you are only finding the right measurements;
    4. 4
      Once you know the window fits accurately, screw in the top sash using brackets. If necessary, pre-drill the holes for your brackets;
    5. 5
      Start placing the remaining brackets and make sure that the window is held firmly in place;
    6. 6
      Once all the brackets are mounted, you can start installing the lower sash filler blocks and jamb liners using a nail-gun and screw driver respectively;
    7. 7
      Lastly, install the lower sash by sliding the pin into its assigned grooves.

    III. Casement Windows vs Double Hung Windows

    Casement windows and double hung windows are the most common type of windows in homes across the world. Despite their popularity, both have their merits and demerits. It is crucial to consider these factors when picking a window for your home.

    1. Price

    Pricing can vary with the size of a window but overall double hung windows are more expensive than casement windows. Casement windows are more open but they let in more dust over time. If your only consideration is price, double hung windows are for you.

    2. Appearance

    Both casement and double-hung windows will improve the visual appeal of your property. Both these windows are available in a range of wood and vinyl forms, as well as a choice of colors and extra attachments. Double hung windows are appropriate for homes with a traditional style; however, casement windows are best for homes with a contemporary look.

    3. Styles and Sizes

    Double hung windows offer more style choices than casement windows even though both are available in the same materials. Double hung windows are preferable in most homes because of color and customization options.

    • Related Article: What Are Standard Window Sizes? |Choosing the Right Windows

    4. Thermal Efficiency

    Consider casement windows if energy efficiency is a top issue. All four sides of these windows are sealed, creating an airtight barrier that nearly eliminates draughts. When you choose double hung windows, however, you will not be compromising energy efficiency.

    5. Durability

    In this aspect, casements lose out to double-hung windows. Casement windows are more vulnerable to the weather and deteriorate faster than double-hung windows since they swing outwardly. Double-hung windows are often more resilient than casement windows because they are secured in a frame. If you reside in a humid region, double hung windows are a good option.

    6. Applications

    Both casement and double hung windows have similar applications but the latter are used in attics and washrooms more commonly. The way they open, they are also preferable near ducts because of the ventilation they provide.

    7. Installation

    Both type of windows require professional installation but casement windows are much easier to install because of a simpler design overall.

    8. Maintenance & Cleaning

    Both types of new windows are low-maintenance. To clean casement windows, just open the window and clean both the inside and outside. For easy cleaning, modern double hung windows simply tilt in.

    IV. Should I Install Double-Hung Windows or Casement Windows?

    The choice between casement and double hung windows comes down to personal preferences. There are several factors to consider and customers can pick either one based on various elements. These include styles and prices, above all else. What you choose will ultimately be dictated by what you want for your home and why you want it.

    • Related Article: Aluminum vs Vinyl Windows: Which is Right For You?