Double-Hung vs. Casement Windows – Which is Best for Your Home?

At first glance, windows seem to be fairly uncomplicated. New homeowners will quickly realize, however, that windows come in many shapes, sizes, and types. As you browse for upgrades, how your windows open is a much more important factor to consider than most people realize.

When looking to replace the windows in your home, there are lots of factors to consider. For example, you should think about the amount of light you’d like to enter your home, the level of insulation you want, and how easily you’d like to ventilate your rooms. You’ll also want to keep UV filtering, noise dampening, and style in mind.

The two most popular choices for windows are double-hung and casement windows. Let’s look at each type of window and their unique benefits for your home.

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Casement Windows

The early colonial settlers used casement windows due to their simple functioning. Hinged on one side, they could be swung out similarly to a door. Modern casement windows are also hinged at the side, but you must use a crank to open them. In the same family, awning windows are casement windows that are hinged at the top.

Casement windows are great in more modern house styles and are well suited to coastal homes. Due to their simpler form of operation, casement windows consist of a single pane of glass that does not obstruct the view. Homeowners can crank their casement windows open all the way for maximum ventilation while still keeping the protection of a screen.

Awning windows are also useful in maintaining ventilation even during rainy times of the year. Many homeowners use them in bathrooms with frosted glass to gain both proper ventilation and privacy.

On the other hand, cranking these windows open will cause the glass to extend out from the home.  If the window is near a recreational or functional area, it is important to think about how it will affect those areas when opened. Will it obstruct walkways, landscaping, or outdoor activities?

Remember that they will also let in the maximum amount of light, which may overheat a particular area of the home. While it’s nice to have an unobstructed view, you may want to consider curtains or shades to counteract warmer days. If not, you can consider using these windows in areas of the house that receive less direct sunlight.

Double-Hung Windows

As window technology advanced, sashes were created. Now, windows open when you lift the sash within the frame. Initially, one sash would be fixed and one sash would move, called single-hung windows. In the 1700s, the ability to move both sashes, called double-hung, was developed using a system of pulleys and counterweights. If you’ve ever spent time in an old home with windows propped up with sticks, it was likely due to the weights disconnecting from the sashes.

Modern double-hung windows no longer rely on weights and pulleys. Instead, the sashes move up and down with ease and even tilt into your home so you can clean the exterior glass. Because both sashes move, you can ventilate from the top or the bottom for maximum airflow. In this style of window, the screens sit on the exterior of the frame.

Double-hung windows are a popular choice for house styles in the northeastern US. In particular, you can find them throughout the Delaware Valley region. They are often seen on Georgian, Victorian, Federal, and Colonial-style homes.

This style of window is a great choice, but because it consists of two panes, the view through your window is cut in half by the sash. These windows can also be difficult to open if you have to reach over a counter or a sink, so casement windows are more popular in these areas.

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Choosing the Right Windows

Often, a combination of casement and double-hung windows throughout the home works best to regulate temperature and ventilation without sacrificing gorgeous views. Considering both beauty and functionality when choosing your windows will ensure your home is comfortable and stylish throughout the year.

Here at Advance Inc., we are happy to help our neighbors to upgrade their windows as well as doors, siding, and more. We have a wide variety of quality windows to meet all your needs. Contact our representative to schedule an in-home consultation.