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What is a casement-style window, and why is it so popular among homeowners?
A casement window is an operating window that is hinged on the left or right side and opens outward, pivoting on the hinged side, very much like a door opens. The window itself consists of one large pane of glass, providing maximum viewing ability out the window. This style of window opens with a crank-style handle, which is placed at the bottom of the window for easy access.
The screen for a casement is placed on the inside of the window, which does protect the screen throughout the inclement months. Casements can be used either singularly or in combination and can be made with grids or leading lines, offering a wide range of customization to create the perfect windows for your home.
History of Casement Windows
The casement window was the earliest form of a movable window. These windows were originally constructed from iron and leaded glass panes in the early 1800s. The mid-1800s brought along the use of heavy oak frames to create the medieval-style casement windows. Generally, the original casement window consisted of six panes of glass with the occasional Gothic arch or smaller panes, especially in the mid-1800s. With glass improvements, the casement window changed from a 6-panel window to 2 panels. Also, in the early 1900s, softer woods were used to create casements, and the necessity to paint the wood frames began. The traditional casement window used throughout Europe opens inward with exterior functional shutters that open outward. A French casement window consists of two casements, opening outwardly in the center. The French casements were used in the United States to open onto balconies and porches and eventually became known as French doors or French windows.
The casement window is known as the “workhorse” of windows. Because of its superior seal and design it helps protect against drafts and air leaks in the winter. During the warmer weather, the casement window can be fully opened, swinging the entire window open, providing superior ventilation. Compared to the double hung or slider windows, where only one half of the window opens. This advantage allows the capture of any passing breezes and funnels the cooling airflow into your home, thus decreasing your energy consumption during the warmer months. The overall energy efficiency is reflected in the choices you make in glass, spacers, insulation, and framing installation. Click here for more information on energy-efficient windows from Energy Star.
At Joyce, we’ve been crafting quality windows for over 70 years, and our expertise in casement styles is unmatched. Whether you’re drawn to their timeless design, superior ventilation, or impressive energy efficiency, our team can help you choose the perfect configuration, materials, and finishes for your home. From consultation to installation, we’re here to ensure your new windows deliver lasting beauty, comfort, and performance. Let Joyce be your partner in creating windows you’ll love for decades to come.
Shari Rogala is the Marketing Content Manager at Joyce Windows, Sunrooms & Baths, where she brings near two decades of experience in customer-first marketing strategy and home improvement communications. With a passion for helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions, Shari specializes in creating clear, educational content that cuts through industry jargon and high-pressure sales tactics.
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