The Differences Between Double Hung and Casement Windows
If there were a popularity contest with window styles, double hung and casement would be at the top of the list. Their practical features, functional components, and attractive looks make them both fabulous options for your next window replacement with Kelly Window & Door. Let’s take a closer look at how they differ:
How They Operate
- Casement Windows—Casement windows use a crank to open and close. They extend beyond your home, and are a practical choice anywhere you need to reach to open a window (such as above the kitchen sink).
- Double Hung Windows—Double hung windows are the most popular window style due to their timeless look. They move up and down to open.
Ventilation
- Casement Windows—If you love a nice breeze in your home, casement windows are a great choice. They catch the wind and channel it into your home, bringing a refreshing feel to your indoor atmosphere. They can help you save on utilities because you can open them to cool your home rather than turn on the air conditioning during days that aren’t too hot.
- Double Hung Windows—People often choose double hung windows because they open from both the top down, and the bottom up—or both. When you open your double hung windows simultaneously (from the top down and bottom up), you create a way for the hot air to exit your home, and the cooler air to enter your home. They can help your utilities bills because you can open them in place of air conditioning for part of the year.
Energy Efficiency
- Casement Windows—Casement windows limit air leaks because (much like a door pressing into a door frame) the window sash pushes directly into all four sides of the frame.
- Double Hung Windows—Unlike typical double hung windows, the Restorations Windows line features three continuous weather-strip seals, which create a nearly airtight seal from top to bottom, securely keeping your heat and air inside, saving you money monthly on utility bills
Views of the Outdoors
- Casement Windows—Casement windows give you the pleasant unobstructed views of the outdoors. The large single pane brings more enjoyment of the outdoors. And the frame acts as a picture frame, highlighting the view of what’s just outside your window.
- Double Hung Windows—The classic look of double hung windows may be something you are accustomed to, with the rail check—the horizontal bar through the middle of the window—dividing your line of view when looking out your window.
Ease of Operation
- Casement Windows—It’s easy to open a casement window— you simply open the lock and turn the crank. Many seniors prefer this type of window because it’s so easy to open. Casement windows are ideal for hard to reach spaces such as above your kitchen sink. It can be super awkward to try to open a double hung window if it’s located above your kitchen sink. In contrast, the ease of operation of a casement window in that location can make all the difference.
- Double Hung Windows—Today’s double hung windows are simple to open from the bottom up, or from the top down. As long as you don’t have to stretch to reach the window, double hung windows are a functional option that should be easy to open by everyone in your household.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Casement Windows—There are more moving parts in a casement window, so they are more likely to need some routine maintenance. Their interiors are easy to clean, but the exteriors need to be cleaned from the outdoors, making it more of a project (particularly on the second floor of a home) than double hung cleaning.
Double Hung Windows—With less moving parts, these low maintenance windows don’t require much when it comes to repairs. They are easy to clean because both window sashes tilt inward. You can clean your windows from inside your home, even on the second floor.
Additional Considerations
- Casement Windows—An air conditioning unit won’t fit in a casement window.
- Double Hung Windows—Air conditioning units work well in the space a double hung window provides.
How to Choose the Best Window Style
While both casement and double hung windows function beautifully—yet differently—the main thing to consider when choosing the best window type is your lifestyle. Get the best window style for your lifestyle and enjoy them for years to come. Begin by looking at your home’s architecture and your style preferences.
What Style Is Your Home?
Casement windows complement modern homes
Their clean lines and simple presentation make them ideal when you want to achieve a contemporary look. The large, uninterrupted glass displayed so generously with casement windows creates a fabulous view of the outdoors and matches well with a modern home. When choosing casement windows, keep in mind that they swing out. When planning your landscaping, consider the fact that your windows swing outdoors and allow space for them.
Double hung windows complement traditional country or colonial style homes
The timeless look of double hung windows make them perfect for traditional and historic homes. They don’t require any considerations when you’re planning your outdoor landscaping because they slide up and down to open—not out. They are reliable and only require low maintenance because there are so few moving parts in double hung windows.
What are the most important window functions you desire? Window styles vary when it comes to aesthetics, maintenance and durability. Decide what your priorities are for your new windows and choose the best fit to match your vision.
A Window Replacement Contractor You Can Trust
When choosing your replacement windows, the style, frame material, hardware, and glass options are all vital to long-term performance, function, and beauty. Equally important is your choice in a window replacement contractor. At Kelly Window & Door, we provide window installation with precision and expertise so you get the best performance from your new windows for years to come.
Take a look at our window gallery.