Double-Hung Vs. Casement Windows: The Pros And Cons
The windows in your home don't last forever. Every homeowner reaches a point where they have to make the decision: replace or repair. If you're considering replacement windows for your home, how do you choose the best option? Two popular options are double-hung and casement windows. Double-hung windows aren't just popular; they are the most popular option in the United States. While casement windows are very popular in Europe, its popularity is slowly increasing in the States. Here are the pros and cons of both styles.
DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS
Pros
Versatility
Double-hung windows feature two sashes in an opening that is taller than it is wide. The sashes can be opened independently of each other and that gives the user some flexibility with ventilation and lighting options.
Easy to Clean
Another fantastic feature of double-hung windows is that they can be tilted inward for easy cleaning of the exterior. No more precarious ladders propped against the side of your house to clean the topmost windows. You can clean them safely from inside the house.
Cons
Cost
Because both sashes move independently, the windows require additional materials to enable that operation. For that reason, double-hung windows tend to be a bit more expensive than single-hung windows, though still reasonable.
Maintenance
With additional moving parts comes additional maintenance. The same feature that gives you versatility—the independently moving sashes—also requires a little more upkeep.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
Casement windows are affixed to a frame on one side of the window and use a hinge to allow the window to swing outward or tilt. Many casement windows come with a crank to allow for smoother mechanical operation.
Pros
Maximum Ventilation
Because of the swinging pane and the lack of a screen, casement windows are the best option for maximum ventilation. For areas with mild summers where homes are often built without air conditioning units, casement windows allow for the very best airflow throughout the whole house.
Ease of Operation
Because they are often designed with a hand crank for opening, casement windows are opened and closed with very little effort. This is also a feature that may appeal to those with limited mobility or for areas of the home that are harder to reach.
Cons
Maintenance
Like double-hung windows, casement windows have more moving parts and that requires regular maintenance to ensure that everything that needs to move is properly lubed and tightened.
No Screens
For areas with a lot of insect activity, the lack of a screen on most casement windows may prove problematic.
Reach out to a window company to find more information.