A casement window is any window set on a vertical or horizontal hinge and is usually fitted in single or double panels. Casement windows typically swing outwards, apart from the tilt-and-turn windows that tilt inward and open inwards. They are the oldest type of window in the UK, dating back to medieval times, and are a popular choice in millions of UK homes for their highly versatile design and practical features.
Different Types of Casement Windows
There are many types of casement windows that you should know about as you consider installing new windows.
Single Casement Window
Single casement windows comprise a single hinged window within a frame, typically opening in a similar way to a door, and traditionally with a window handle called a casement fastener.
Double Casement Window
Double casement windows typically open outwards from the centre, either side of a central vertical post or ‘mullion’. French casement windows operate in the same way with the window handles in the centre, but have no central mullion.
Flush Casement Window
Flush casement windows are designed for the sash to sit flat and flush with the surrounding frame, offering sleek lines and a simple aesthetic. Flush windows became popular in the Edwardian era and are also a popular choice for contemporary properties because of their simple, elegant design.
Flush casement window with leading
Fixed Casement Window
Fixed casement windows are windows that can’t be opened, for example large static ‘feature’ windows. They allow natural light into a room and provide a clear view of the outdoors.
Awning Casement Window
Awning casement windows are installed horizontally, using hinges attached along the top of the frame. They open outward from the bottom, guaranteeing ventilation and protection from wet climates.
Hopper Casement Window
Like awning casement windows, hopper casement windows are installed horizontally, yet they are positioned in the opposite direction, with the hinges along the bottom.
Different Types of Materials for Casement Windows
Casement windows are available in a wide range of materials, including aluminium, uPVC and timber. The choice of material depends on a variety of factors including your budget, style, and insulation, durability and sustainability preferences.
Timber
The use of wood for casement windows is the natural choice for period properties as it is the material the window would have originally been made with.
It is the most sustainable and authentic choice, and will help a property maintain its value. Thanks to advances in timber processing in recent years, timber is a long lasting and low maintenance option, with a good quality timber window lasting up to 100 years. Timber windows can also be repaired if they degrade, whereas uPVC/aluminium cannot.
Aluminium
Aluminium is well-known for being secure and durable and is a robust, high quality material for casement windows, particularly popular on modern properties for its sleek, minimalist look. As a metal it’s not very thermally efficient on its own, so aluminium clad timber windows, or ‘alu-clad’ windows, are sometimes used instead to improve thermal efficiency.
uPVC
uPVC is the cheapest material for casement windows, and although they are a low maintenance option, they tend to discolour after 10-20 years and need to be replaced. Being made from a derivative of fossil fuels, they are also the least sustainable option.
Advantages of Casement Windows
In addition to the versatile style, casement windows are a mainstay for generations of homeowners due to their functional advantages.
Exceptional Ventilation
By design, casement windows can be opened all the way out for maximum ventilation as well as angled slightly to let in the fresh air, helping to circulate air around the house.
Traditional casement window
High Security
Security features such as multi-point locking and restricted friction hinges with child resistant catches help ensure casement windows can be kept both secure and safe to use.
Boost Energy Efficiency
Saving energy expenses is always important for homeowners. Features such as full perimeter draught-proofing and high performance double glazing can help minimise draughts and improve thermal insulation to reduce energy bills. Acoustic glazing can also be used to further reduce any unwanted noise from outside.
Unobstructed view
Whether open or shut, casement window designs provide excellent views, making these a highly sought-after option for daylight windows.
Disadvantages of Casement Windows
Although casement windows offer a whole host of benefits, they may not be the best choice for everyone.
Size Limitations
Because the sash has to be light enough that the window frame can support the weight while open. This may limit the size of the window you can have in terms of both dimensions and weight.
No Storm Screens
Casement windows can be impractical if storm screens are required, as they open outwards.
To sum up, casement windows are highly versatile in design, style and material. They provide us with healthy ventilation in the home, and can help create a warm, peaceful and secure living environment.
At Timbawood, our bespoke timber casement windows can be designed in the style, glazing, colour and configuration of your choice. We provide the full service from design and manufacture through to installation, and are proud to make windows for beautiful properties throughout London and the Home Counties, and beyond. If you have any questions about replacing your casement windows, our window experts are ready to assist you.
