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by Rachel Lyon, Editorial Director for The House Designers®
The windows you choose will have a big impact on your home’s curb appeal from the outside, and how you view your exterior surroundings from the inside. That’s why it’s so important to select the right type for your goals! While every architectural style has its preferred windows—you’ll see them featured on renderings of house plans—the choice is ultimately yours. Casement windows are some of the most adaptable, so they’re definitely worth your consideration! Here are some of the main reasons why homeowners opt for casement windows, no matter the style of their homes.
Capture a View
Casement windows are prized for their ability to offer the clearest sightlines and frame views. This perk comes down to construction; a casement-style window has a single sash that connects to its frame with hinges on the side. Other popular styles, like single and double hung windows, are composed of two sashes that overlap when the window opens, and lock closed at their meeting rails in the middle. That meeting rail can be a deal-breaker for some, because it breaks up the view outside.
It should come as no surprise, then, that casement windows have always been preferred for modern homes. Unimpeded expanses of glass bring the outdoors in, and the bigger they are, the better! Even just one window will frame a good view, but you can also line them up in a series for a panoramic effect. If your lot is surrounded by great scenery, don’t let it go to waste!
Stay Architecturally Correct
Even if your favorite architecture wouldn’t traditionally call for casement windows, they’ll probably adapt just fine. Take a look at the finishing options—each product has a variety of casing and subsill profiles for the frame, and plenty of divided lite patterns for the sash. These design options let you tailor the window to your needs. Aim for clean lines and an open vibe—like flat trim and no divided lites—for a contemporary home, and a more classic or historical look—like intricate trim and a suitable divided lite pattern—for a traditional style.
Even if they aren’t the typical choice for most traditional homes, some people still select casement windows. They might be drawn to a specific divided lite pattern that preserves views with a nice architectural touch, or they could even use modern windows to update the look of the house. You’ll see this on modern farmhouses, which have been extremely popular for the last couple of years. The preference could also come down to practicality; for instance, crank handle, push-out, or inswing operation can be easier for some than sliding sashes up and down or side to side in a frame. So don’t worry—whatever your reason and no matter which architectural aesthetic you’re going for, casement windows will deliver.
Invest in Efficiency
Building an efficient home now will result in lower utility bills in the future, which saves you money and does good for the planet. Today’s windows are made for different climate zones to offer the best performance for your circumstances, but the difference only lies in the glass—the type of glazing and insulating gas—used. You want to maximize the airtightness of the window frame, no matter where you live.
While nearly every type of window can be manufactured to exceed efficiency standards, some make it easier by design. Swinging windows, which include casement and awning varieties, press tightly closed when locked, which prevents air from leaking between the frame and the sash. In terms of airtightness, casement windows are second only to fixed pane windows, so they’re the perfect choice if you want to maximize efficiency while maintaining operability for when you want fresh air.
Check out Marvin® if you’d like to invest in beautiful and efficient windows! Their catalog includes a dozen kinds of casement window to ensure homeowners find products with the right aesthetics and operability for their needs. On the off chance you don’t find what you’re looking for, they offer custom solutions as well. Find a local dealer who can help you specify the windows you’ve envisioned for your new home!
