What are Casement Windows?

If you want an energy-efficient window with great ventilation and a wide-open view, then casement windows are the perfect window option.

If you're considering casement windows for your home, read on to learn more about their advantages, disadvantages, and where they work best.

Use the links below to skip ahead in this post:

• What is a casement window?
• How are casement windows typically used?
• Pros and cons of casement windows
  • What are the advantages of casement windows?
  • What are the disadvantages of casement windows?
• Should you get casement windows?
• Who sells casement windows?

Pros and Cons of Casement Windows

The advantages of casement windows make them ideal for many situations, but not all. Carefully weight the benefits and potential disadvantages of casement windows before choosing them, or before deciding where to install them: 

What is a casement window?

Casement windows open outward like doors (windows that are hinged on top are called awning windows). Casement windows are typically opened by turning a crank—hence their common nickname, "crank windows"—and held open by a casement stay↗. 

Because casement windows are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, they are ideal for almost any room in the home including those that require egress windows. They're especially popular in rooms where you might want more ventilation (i.e. bedrooms, bathrooms) and in places like dining rooms and sitting rooms, where you can enjoy the great view they provide.  

Standard double-casement windows have a center bar that runs down between each pane for casement windows without the center-pane you'll want French Casement windows↗. The French casement option is less common, we usually order them from Marvin. 

How are casement windows typically used?

Casement windows are often installed as single units or in pairs but there are many configurations.

• You'll often see two casement windows within a single frame, in this situation they are hinged on opposite sides so that they both open from the center of the frame. 
• It's also fairly common to see two casement windows installed on either side of a large picture window. 
• Casement windows are also used in combination with other window styles like awning windows.
• Some homeowners even opt for configurations with three or more consecutive casement windows. In this case, the windows are usually hinged on the same side.

Standard double-casement windows have a center bar that runs down between each pane for casement windows without the center-pane you'll want French Casement windows↗. The French casement window option is less common, we usually order them from Marvin. 

Pros and Cons of Casement Windows

The advantages of casement windows make them ideal for many situations, but not all. Carefully weigh the benefits and potential disadvantages of casement windows before choosing them, or before deciding where to install them.

What are the advantages of casement windows?

Pro: The airflow is unmatched

Few if any other window styles offer as much unobstructed airflow as a casement window. That makes them ideal for warm climates and spaces where you'd like to enjoy the breeze. 

Pro: Casement windows are versatile

Available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and configurations, casement windows have an incredible range of uses, and can be adapted to practically any room in your home. They also fit in with a wide variety of architectural styles, from craftsman homes and prairie-style houses to colonial mansions and contemporary architecture. 

Pro: Great views

A casement window doesn't have meeting rails or sashes like hung or sliding windows. Without the meeting rails or sashes, casement windows are able to provide a clear and unobstructed view. This benefit is especially beneficial if you want your windows to frame the unobstructed views from outside of your home.

Pro: Casement windows are efficient

Because of the way casement windows open and close, they are able to shut tightly and lock into place without the need for a flexible seal. This makes them extremely weathertight and more energy efficient than sliding windows and many other types. 

What are the disadvantages of casement windows?

Now that we've gone over all of the pros of casement windows, let's take a look at some of the downsides of casement windows.

Con: They take up a lot of space

Be careful about installing a casement window on the first floor in a high-traffic area. Casement windows can become hazards if they open into a frequently-used sidewalk or patio, or an area where kids often play. 

Con: Vulnerable to high winds

Casement windows are vulnerable to damage in high winds, much in the same way the wind can catch a door and slam it open. If you have a casement window, it's best to keep them closed on very windy days.

Con: Casement windows are more costly than other window types

Although prices for any type of window can vary greatly depending on multiple factors, it's pretty common for casement windows to be on the more expensive side.

Casement windows are among the most popular and versatile windows on the market today, and nearly all major window manufacturers offer them in their product lines. Look for high-quality casement windows from these trusted brands: 

• Brennan Windows

• Andersen Windows and Doors

• NT Window

• Sierra Pacific Windows & Doors

• Alside Windows & Doors

For professional installation, you can purchase casement replacement windows from window retailers like us or partner with a contractor who has access to quality replacement window brands to help make your purchase.