A casement window is an exterior window that is connected to its respective frame by one or both hinges on the side. They are most commonly used singly or in sets within a frame, where each is hinged on its side. Casement windows can be fixed or have a removable top or two removable side polls. They may also be hinged on one or both sides of the frame for partial or full opening.
There are three types of casement windows:
- The casement
- The sash
- The gliding.
The former is a swinging or sliding glass window that swings or slides and is usually found in homes near water. The sash type allows for easy cleaning as the sash is hinged right on the frame, making it easier to access the track for cleaning. Both types give the homeowners the freedom to choose the configuration they desire. While these windows have differences, the main goal is to provide homeowners the best looking from both inside and out.
The casement windows that swing or slide are also known as windcheaters. The reason this style of window is called windcheaters is due to the action of wind when the window is closed. When the window is open, air tends to flow against the glass causing the water vapor to condense on the glass causing it to be cloudy. In order to avoid this problem, the window is partially open so that air flow is not able to reach the glass causing a clearer glass.
As mentioned earlier, casement windows provide the option for two distinct and independent mechanisms for opening and closing. The first is the crank mechanism, which is easily identified because it is located on the hinges that are usually located at the top of the unit. This design provides an easy and safe way for a person to open or close the window without having to use a special key.
The other style of casement windows that have been used in homes for generations is the double-hung window. Unlike the crank design, a double-hung window does not have one latch to use to operate the shutter. Instead, the first hung lower shutter must be placed upon hinges on either side of the frame in order to provide a stable opening for ventilation.
Both the crank and double-hung window styles utilize a ventilated opening and an efficient exhaust system. The air ducts run from the top of the unit right along the walls to the bottom, and then air is directed back into the room through small holes. For added ventilation and energy efficiency, today’s casement windows can even be certified by the Energy Star Program. This means that the windows opening are more efficient, and that it allows greater airflow into a home.