What You Need To Know About Casement Windows

It's always nice to start with a little history lesson to be reminded that some things can survive trends. One of such things is casement windows, which have been well-known and sought-after for centuries. Everest and One Stop Joinery disclose that casement windows appeared for the first time in the U.K., around the 18th century, when they successfully replaced stone-mullioned windows.

One Stop Joinery states that the frames of these windows were first made of iron but later constructed of oak — this development took about a century. Britannica also lists casement windows as one of the first openable windows, detailing how this option operates like a door, opening inward or outward, made possible by the hinges installed in its vertical sash. Britannica adds that French casement windows were introduced to balconies and porches in the U.S. to spruce up the curb appeal of homes. Tag along to learn everything you need to know about casement windows!

First is the window frame, which prevents the glass pane from falling, via Everest. It consists of a sill and a head which run horizontally at the top and bottom, as well as two jambs running vertically on both sides. The sill forms the bottom part of the window frame that protects your house from rain by deflecting it. Another noteworthy part is the casement, and it's responsible for keeping the glazing in place. Then we have the mullion. TGP describes them as vertical supporting strips typically constructed from uPVC or aluminum, the same materials used for the window frame. Mullions separate various openable areas in casement windows with a fixed pane. 

Lock handles are installed on jambs. Their color and style will depend on the type of casement window you choose, be it a push-out option or the crank and turn variety. Transoms, which TGP compares to mullions, are horizontal bars separating the window vents from the fixed glass panes. Trickle vents are essential for casement windows because they improve the home's ventilation and prevent condensation. Another feature of a casement window is the Georgian bars, which TGP recommends for a more traditional look. They are vertical and horizontal bars, creating smaller squares and fitted inside the window to mimic the 18th-century windows of the Georgian era. 

Architecture Ideas names ventilation and high natural light stream as advantages of installing casement windows. This is because they open completely, unlike double-hung windows. When it comes to noise, they guarantee comfort as casement windows reduce noise levels when sealed. According to Zen Windows, casement windows give you more security since the locks are on the inside. One more advantage they mention is that casement windows are energy-efficient. They save up to 45% of energy in the winter and 70% during summer, and therefore help with saving money.

Casement windows offer low maintenance and little cleaning since they have one pane of glass. Champion mentions that casement windows provide you with a romantic spot when opened. They add that if you live in a beautiful neighborhood, you will have an unobstructed view of the outside. Champion includes the advantage of the rooms having cool temperatures since casement windows allow more air inside the house.