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What Is a Casement Window?
Modern casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward, similar to a door. They look like a picture window because, unlike double-hung or sliding windows, a casement window has no rail. Some casement windows will push open, but the majority have a hand crank. When fully open, casements allow easy cleaning and excellent ventilation. They are generally more airtight than double-hung windows since the sash locks against the frame when closed.
Original casement windows trace back to the Medieval period when windows were unglazed. It was during the reign of Elizabeth I that the general population began to afford glass windows.
Fast-forward to this century on the east coast of North America and across the globe, where these striking windows have become iconic. Popular in period buildings and new construction thanks to the increased popularity of industrial design and the widespread repurposing of industrial architecture worldwide.
Once you have picked the correct type of casement windows for your space, you will have many materials and colors to select for the finishes. For example, new and replacement casement window frames use aluminum, vinyl, wood, clad wood, and steel. Standard exterior colors include black, tan, brown, bronze, cream, and white.
Wooden casement window frames usually come unfinished. They allow flexibility for paint or stain to be applied that will suit your home's style and design. Certain brands are available in primed versions. Wood frames offer an advantage as they minimize condensation and will not become as cold as other types of window frames.
Aluminum casement windows are light, durable, easy to install, and insulated to protect against moisture buildup and prevent heat loss.
Vinyl casement windows are cost-effective, moisture and heat resistant. However, they are more likely to be less energy efficient as they can leak air over time.
Clad-wood casement windows have an exterior protected by aluminum, while the interior is either painted or stained wood.
Steel casement windows have historic charm and can be a more significant investment than other types of casement windows.
How Do You Install Casement Windows?
Even the most energy-efficient windows will struggle to deliver the look or comfort you expect if installed incorrectly. As a result, major window manufacturers train and certify installers for their specific windows.
A benefit to using the same contractor for purchase and installation means that you will know who is responsible for fixing it if a problem arises later.
Other best practices include getting multiple estimates and looking online for certification from the American Window and Door Institute or Installation Masters. Once you receive a bid, ensure that it contains specific items such as window brand and model, number of windows, size and type, and any additional features. Installation details need to be in writing as well as material and labor costs.
If you are a successful do-it-yourselfer, replacing existing casements with similar size windows can be tackled with the help of another person who is willing to hold up the weight of the window as it's fitted into an existing opening.
Home Depot also supplies this general overview of steps reference and a better understanding of what it takes to install a replacement casement window. A good approach includes reading the steps over carefully to determine if your skills align with the actions needed.
What Are the Best Brands of Casement Windows?
Andersen, Marvin, Milgard, and Pella are popular casement window brands. Many more prominent manufacturers in the window industry market multiple brands. Andersen and Marvin sell specific product lines exclusively to authorized installers, and home centers such as Home Depot and Lowe's sell numerous lines.
Milgard
Founded in 1958, Milgard offers a full line of fiberglass, vinyl, and aluminum windows and doors for builders, homeowners, and dealers. Owned by MI, the company operates plants in California, Oregon, and Washington. MI is one of the nation's largest suppliers of energy-efficient windows and doors. With 10+ manufacturing plants across the United States, MI brands manufacture high-performance and market-preferred products for new construction and replacement applications.
Pella
Pella Corporation designs and manufactures doors and windows for both commercial applications and residential homes. Since its founding by Pete Kuyper in 1925, the corporation has been proud to support the communities they work and live. They are headquartered in Pella, Iowa. The corporation employs over 8,000 people with 17 manufacturing locations and more than 200 showrooms across the country.
What Are the Cons of Casement Windows?
Today's casement windows are well designed; however, they do have a few issues. One challenge is the possible failure of the casement windows' operating systems. As risk mitigation design solutions, many manufacturers have improved their opening and closing systems. Window air conditioners are challenging to install with a casement window. If you have a standard air conditioner window unit, they will not fit in these windows.
Kelly Isley
Kelly Isley is a writer, author of four books and ASJA member. She has also been renovating homes for 12+ years, is an engineer, pilot, football fan, and lover of ice cream.
