If you’re in the market for new windows, you may consider casement or double hung windows.
When shopping for new construction windows or replacement windows, the options may feel stressful. There are well over 25 types or styles of windows, so it’s no wonder you feel overwhelmed.
If you are wondering which windows to put in your property, there are two types that are well worth your consideration: casement and double hung windows. While the two share some similarities, they are two different types of windows ideal for different uses.
Once you consider factors like energy savings, costs, opening styles and mechanisms, and durability, the differences between the two window types will be clear, and your choice will be easier to make. Today, we’re diving into all of that information and more.
Continue reading below to learn more.
Double hung windows vs casement windows: The major differences
The main difference between double hung and the casement window is how they open and close. Double hung windows function by sliding vertically up and down, while casement windows have hinges on one side, so they open and close horizontally, much like doors.
Another key difference is how you get them to open and close. Double hung windows have an upper and lower windowpane unit, called a sash, that slides up and down. The user will hold a handle and lift either sash straight up or down.
Casement windows open and close by using a manual crank on the interior of the house. Users turn the crank to engage a gearbox that pushes the window out and open or in and shut.
Casement windows: the advantages and disadvantages
Casement windows are a classic window that is perfect for a lot of homes and come with many perks:
- They are easy to open and close
- These windows are great for directing airflow into your home
- This type of window is good for disabled users.
While the casement window boasts many great qualities, it also comes with some downfalls, including the crank on these windows does not always work and could fail. Additionally, these windows do not fit standard air conditioning units.
Please note that placement matters when making your decision about going with casement windows! Be aware that poorly placed windows could result in conflicting openings. For example, two casement windows placed on an inside corner could collide.
Double hung windows: The pros and cons
The double hung window is an ideal choice for properties and fits many home styles. Like casement windows, double hung windows have their own benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits include low failure rate, a wide range of options and selection, and the ability to lock the lower sash and still open the upper sash. Drawbacks could include the spring balance failing, more challenging to open and close, more difficult to clean the outside [than casement windows], and the sash frame slightly impeding the view.
Casement and double hung windows: Everything you need to know
Before you decide which types of windows you want for your home, it’s important to be familiar with how they work, how much of an investment you’ll make, energy efficiency, and more.
Here’s everything you need to know to make an educated decision:
- Styles — Casement windows give an updated look that could lean contemporary. Their clean lines and simple geometry allow casement windows to complement modern-style properties, but may be paired with any style of house.
While double hung windows can complement any style home, they are especially complementary to vintage cottage-style properties or new homes that emulate older styles. They also look great with traditional and classic styles. - Energy efficiency — Casement windows do a great job of limiting air intrusion into your property. The window sash presses straight onto the four sides of the window frame and the seals, similar to an exterior door fitting right into the door frame. Latching the casement window further tightens the gap between the casement sash and seals.
Double hung windows are also a good option if energy efficiency is important to you. The bottom and two sides of a double hung window fit tightly in the tracks. The only area that could allow for air seepage is along the top; however, a good seal will limit this. - Latching — Casement windows feature an interior latch that must be engaged to be fully secure and shut. The latch must be unlocked to allow the window to open and close.
Most of the time, the upper sash on double hung windows will remain locked in place while the lower one slides up and down. However, the upper sash will also slide up and down. Both sashes can lock in the middle of the window, allowing air to flow from the base and the top of the window. - Mechanical issues — The crank on casement windows is usually the first mechanical component to go. Even if the crank on casement windows does not suddenly fail, it can slowly fail as time passes and allow more air seepage into your house.
The double hung window has a lower failure rate than other windows, including casement windows, because fewer mechanical parts could malfunction. Dropped windows are an issue that is common with the double hung window, a condition where the lower sash will not stay up. - Cost — The casement window is usually a larger investment than double hung windows, sometimes two times as much. This is likely attributed to the more complex mechanical components and operation of the casement window.
Double hung windows are often less expensive than casement windows. Thankfully, higher competition among this window type and window manufacturers helps to control the costs for this common type of window.
The double hung window vs the casement window: an open-and-shut case
Investing in replacement windows or your original windows may feel overwhelming because there are a lot of factors to consider, such as shape, color, style, construction materials, and so much more. But it turns out there’s no right or wrong answer. It comes down to what you love, what you prefer, and what works best for your specific property.
But, where you might go wrong is by not doing your research on window installation companies. One of the most important parts of making your window decision is shopping for trusted and knowledgeable window installation companies that provide quality work, do what they say they’ll do, and more.
Yes, the type of window you select for your home is important. However, choosing the right company to do the job can make or break your home improvement project. Below are a few key tips that will help weed out any bad window installation companies:
- Experience — Find a window contractor who has at least five years of experience under their belt.
- References — Ask the window installation company for references from previous clients to learn about their professionalism, customer service, and quality of work.
- Communication — Don’t be shy when asking equations about contracts and expected services when getting your quote. Pay attention to whether they provide quick, helpful responses.
- Review — Check online reviews from third-party sites to get an accurate idea of the company’s character and quality of work.
Let Mountain States Windows & Siding help with your windows
Whether you want double hung windows or a casement-style window in your home, the professionals at Mountain States Windows & Siding are here to help.
There’s no denying that even the highest-quality and most expensive window, regardless of the style, is only as good as the team who installs it. For this reason, the trusted and skilled team at Mountain States is dedicated to making your window upgrade or original installation the best home improvement project you’ve ever taken on.
Finding window installation companies you can trust may be challenging; thankfully, the search is over. In our years in the industry, our team has come to realize that the best quality experiences are found in the details.
At Mountain States, you’ll learn that we put countless hours of attention to detail, craftsmanship, and hard work into each and every one of our projects. Without our knowledge and experience, equipment and tools, and years in the industry, our team wouldn’t amount to much.
Whether you are upgrading your current home with new, energy-efficient windows or are building a new house and needing the original windows installed, our team is here to help. When you choose Mountain States Windows & Siding, you can rest easy knowing you are choosing the best.
The good news is that our team of knowledgeable and qualified technicians has years of industry experience and is ready to take on any home renovation project you have, including updating windows, upgrading siding, and total kitchen and bathroom renovations.
We only offer above-and-beyond services, use high-quality materials, and supply state-of-the-art products, so you will know that your windows will boost value, improve energy efficiency, upgrade curb appeal, and ensure that your property is comfortable and well-insulated all year round, regardless of the temperature outside.
Our team is ready to serve residential and commercial properties in Salt Lake, West Jordan, Park City, Lehi, Provo, and many surrounding areas across the Wasatch Front and Back. Contact Mountain States Windows & Siding now to learn more.
