Window Casement FAQ

While choosing windows for your home, you will encounter many popular window styles. Casement windows are often hidden in the background of product catalogs, making them easy to miss. Yet, this is definitely a window worth contemplating if you are planning a window replacement project.

It is surprising how many benefits casement windows have. So, to help San Francisco homeowners make an informed decision when planning on window replacement projects Best Exteriors compiled the most common questions about the window casements. Call us (888) 853-6277 to request a quote!

Window Casement | FAQ

Q: What are casement windows?

A: The term crank window (or side-hinge window) refers to windows that are attached from the side and open by cranking a handle. Since they hinge much like doors, they can be configured to open either inwards or outwards, and optional screens may be removed from the inside of the home. The windowpanes of casement windows don’t need to be forced to slide or move like those of traditional sliding windows. Casement windows are easy to open and close with just one hand!

A crank handle makes casement windows an excellent choice for residents with limited mobility and/or for out-of-reach window spaces.

Q: What types of casement windows exist?

A: These versatile and practical windows are available in a variety of styles.

Single-Frame Casement Windows

Casement windows with a single frame represent the most typical type of replacement casement windows. Single-frame windows are frequently positioned in rooms with a need for additional ventilation or control, such as bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens.

Double Casement Windows

Double window casements, also known as French casement windows, are the windows that have two panes that open from the center (similar to French doors). In grand living areas such as living rooms, family rooms, and master bedrooms, double casement windows can offer bright, open views and access to fresh air.

Push-Out Casement Windows

These windows operate by pressing a lever to push the glass outwards rather than pulling it in and then pulling it back in. Push-out casement windows are available in single- and double-frame styles and are opened and closed by a handle rather than a crank.

The casement window system is available in a variety of materials, sizes and finishes, allowing it to be customized to fit almost any height or width requirement, ensuring a reliable level of energy efficiency when properly installed.

Q: When should I use casement windows?

A: Casement windows are hinged at the sides and swing outward. In addition to providing a clear view of the outdoors, they can be opened and closed easily by turning a handle.  These are ideal for dark spaces with little natural light or for hard-to-reach areas.

Casement windows are most commonly used to:

• Over the kitchen sink or other difficult-to-reach areas
• Places where ventilation is desired and unobstructed views are essential
• In the case of a large picture window (adding a flank to it would provide ventilation)
• Typically used in bay or bow window configurations
• They are commonly found in contemporary homes (due to their narrow sightlines and unobstructed views).

Q: How do I know if casement windows are right for me?

A: Many San Francisco homeowners choose casement windows for their homes, but they aren’t right for everyone. For example, casement windows may not be the right choice if you have a house without central air and need to use a window air conditioner. When considering casement windows, you should note that the screens are located on the interior, rather than on the exterior, as is traditionally the case with sliding and double-hung windows. Keeping windows clean is easier this way, but just be aware that you have to remove screens to clean them from the inside.

Q: What are the advantages of casement windows?

A: Casement windows offer many advantages, such as:

Fully Customizable

Casement windows are available in many styles, sizes and materials to choose from. This allows you to customize your windows to match the needs of your home and your decorating style.

Increases Energy-Efficiency

Due to their locking and sealing capabilities, casement windows prevent air leakage to an excellent degree. Furthermore, stronger winds will actually tighten the seal of your casement windows, thereby reducing your energy expenses in the long run.

Improves Air Ventilation

Windows such as these are ideal if your home requires a lot of ventilation. Through the use of the handle, you can precisely control the amount of airflow entering the room.

Added Insulation

In contrast to sliding windows, casement windows only have hinges that move. As there is only a single piece of glass, casement windows provide greater air resistance and can greatly enhance the insulation ability of your San Francisco home.

Includes Safety Features

Window casements are equipped with locking mechanisms to prevent intruders from entering. Additionally, casement windows provide a great fire escape for ground-level rooms because they can be opened widely.

Easy to Use

For areas that can be hard to reach (such as above the kitchen sink), casement windows are a great option as they can be easily operated with one hand. These windows are ideal for elderly and people with limited mobility as the easy-to-use cranking mechanism makes it easy to open and close them.

Easy to Clean

Once you have removed the window screen, you will be able to open the window wide enough to safely clean the glass outside of your home from inside! A casement window does not require a ladder to operate, making it an excellent choice for hard-to-reach spaces.

Q: How do casement windows differ from other windows?

A: Compared to other types of windows, casement windows offer several advantages.

It is very typical for sliding windows to accumulate debris on their tracks, which makes them difficult to operate. Moreover, these windows make a distinctive noise when opened and closed. In contrast, window casements are quiet and don’t gather dirt or debris.

The opening of double-hung and single-hung windows can be difficult because they are vertically arranged – so they will have to battle gravity. Furthermore, if the lifting mechanism of a vertically moving window breaks, the window will not remain open. Casement windows don’t have this problem.

Interested in window casements in San Francisco? Call us 888-853-6277 or contact Best Exteriors for a consultation or request a quote online.

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