Replacing the windows you have on your home is a great way to increase its comfort, appearance and energy efficiency. However, some homeowners can have trouble deciding which style of replacement windows to install on their home. In the following article we take a look at two of the most common window styles (casement and double-hung) in terms of form, function and features, so you can feel more confident in your decision of which window is the best for your home.
Casement windows are hinged along the side and open by swinging outward similar to a door. These windows are often opened and closed by way of a crank mechanism, but some other models simply push out to open and pull in to close. This allows for easy operation of casement windows, making them a great window choice for those areas that are hard to reach in your home. A casement window also offers exceptional security for your home, as they feature a hook-shaped lock embedded in the frames.
Because these types of windows can be opened up to 90 degrees, casement windows offer more versatility than hung-sash windows when it comes to being able to catch those great cross breezes. Along with bringing in additional fresh air, this can also help your home stay cooler so you don’t have to rely as much on electric fans or air conditioning, lowering your electric costs in the process. When it comes to the aesthetics of your home, casement windows pair very well with older style houses, as well as homes that are designed with a more contemporary style.
The most common window style on modern homes are double-hung windows. These windows feature two moveable sashes, which are opened by lifting the bottom sash upward. However, the top sash on the double-hung window can also be pulled down to create an opening on the top as well. This unique style of window offers versatility when it comes to ventilation, as it allows for a cross breeze effect with just one window. When both sashes are opened just a few inches, cooler air is drawn in through the bottom opening, while warmer air from inside the home rises and is pulled out through the top.
One of the best features of double-hung windows is the fact that they are known as one of the easier window styles to clean on the market. Most double-hung window models feature “tilt-in” sashes that fold inward, allowing the homeowner to clean both sides of the glass from the inside of their home. This can be very helpful for cleaning especially with the outsides of windows on the second or third floors of the home, which would otherwise require you to climb a ladder to clean the windows.
To learn more about the differences between casement and double-hung windows, contact the professionals at Mt. Pleasant Window & Remodeling. We would love to schedule with you a free, in-home consultation to help you decide which style of replacement windows would best suit the needs of your home. Contact us online or call us today at 724-200-8494!