Casement Windows vs Double Hung Windows

Are you looking for replacement windows for your home, or wondering what windows to install in a new building? You’d be surprised by how many different styles of windows you can choose from. Deciding which style is right for the various rooms of your property can be harder than you think.

All window styles have different features and advantages. Two of the most common types of replacement windows are casement windows and double-hung windows. Here we look at the various features of both kinds of windows.

Casement Windows

A casement window is a framed window pane unit designed to open horizontally on a hinge system, like a door.

It opens with a lever on the interior side of the window.

Casement windows can be arranged in groups to form various complex window styles. For example, a bay window consists of a number of casement windows constructed in a box shape. A bow window consists of a number of casement windows arranged to form a curve.

Double-Hung Windows

Both single-hung and double-hung windows consist of two windowpane units, where either one or both units can be opened vertically. Most windows of this type open inwards – unlike awning windows, which are designed to open outwards.

A single-hung window consists of a hinged or sliding window pane installed together with a fixed window pane. If both window panes can be opened, this forms a double-hung window.

Double Hung vs Casement Windows – Pros and Cons

Casement and double–hung windows are both attractive and popular options for homeowners who want to replace windows. Depending on various factors, you should make sure you pick the right type of window for your requirements.

The various factors you should consider are:

Size

Double-hung windows open vertically – using your own muscle power! If the area is large, the big window panes might be heavy and difficult to manage.

A casement window opens horizontally with the weight borne by the actual window frame, so it’s much easier to open and close.

View

If a view of the outdoors is important at your window replacement opening, you should install a window without obstructions. Double-hung windows usually have a rail in the middle that could impede a clear view. Casement windows offer a clear view or your garden or street.

Ventilation

Double-hung windows are great for bedrooms or living areas because you can open both window sashes, allowing for maximum ventilation. You can also choose which of the sashes you want to open.

Casement windows also offer great ventilation, but they catch the breeze because of their sail-like design. In windy areas, they can rattle noisily and also sustain damage.

Obstruction

If your window space looks onto a walkway or outside seating area like a patio, you should avoid any window installation that opens outward. Double-hung windows are ideal for this type of space, as they open inward.

Weathering

Casement windows open outwards into the elements, so the frames tend to weather more quickly than double–hung windows.

For casement windows, you should consider a weather-proof material like vinyl window frames, rather than wooden window frames which require regular maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Regulating the airflow in and out of your home will help you save on power bills. The type of window you choose in various areas of the home can make a considerable difference in energy consumption over time.

Casement windows have a smaller seal area than double-hung windows when locked, so there is less risk of air leaking in or out. Some double-hung windows also have a sliding track, which can allow heat or cold in.

Cleaning

Double–hung windows open inwards and are, therefore, easy to clean from the comfort of the interior room. Cleaning casement windows on the outside might involve risky ladders or tricky long-handled cleaning tools.

Window screens

If you want to keep bugs and other debris out of your home, you will need to have window screens installed. Casement windows open outwards, which makes screens difficult or impossible to install. Double–hung windows work very well with fitted screens.

Casement Window Costs vs Double Hung Window Costs

The costs of window replacements can vary depending on the style, size, placement, and material of your window. Double-hung and casement windows cost roughly the same, all other factors considered.

The average cost of window replacements, without labor included, are as follows:

• Basic aluminum: $300-$525
• Composite: $325-$700
• Basic vinyl: $350-$600
• Better-quality vinyl: $475-$825
• Basic wood: $500-$850
• Fiberglass: $600-$900
• Better-quality wood: $700-$1,000
• Top-quality wood: $900-$1,350 and up

Conclusion

With double–hung vs casement window prices being similar (depending on various other factors), convenience and suitability are the only things you need to worry about.

Larger window areas are more suited to casement windows. Window areas which are more exposed to the elements are more suited to double–hung windows.

Both styles of the window are fairly standard. Your windows probably aren’t going to turn the heads of passersby in the street! But they’re attractive, practical, and affordable.

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