How Safe Are Casement Windows? Casement windows open via crank, there is no way a would-be thief could open the window from outside. When casement windows are closed, the sash is pressed tight into the frame. This provides the window with added strength.
Removing the crank is another deterrent to burglars because then the only way to get in will be to crawl through the frame, which will likely be filled with broken glass shards. Casement windows usually don't come with locks, but locks can be easily added to them to help boost your security and peace of mind.
All windows have their weak points and even with the most secure window, the intruder can always break the glass to enter the home. However, in relation to other types of windows, casement windows are very difficult to break into. With other windows, breaking the glass makes it easy to fully open the window.
Because of the strong seal and the crank on the interior, casement windows offer better security. Of course, any window's glass can be broken by an intruder, but braking glass is more likely to attract attention. Double-hung windows have a latch that is secure on newer windows but is susceptible to breaking.
Casement windows, double-hung windows, and sliding windows are the most secure windows to prevent intruders. A window vibration sensor can be installed, and an alarm will sound if the window breaks. Fixed windows will provide extra security from the interior, helping to prevent falls.
If you're interested in unbreakable glass that truly lives up to its name, polycarbonate panels are the type you want. Polycarbonate panels are significantly more difficult to break than both standard glass windows and laminated glass mentioned above.
Single- and double-hung. Both sashes slide vertically in a double-hung window. Only the bottom sash slides upward in a single-hung window. These sliding windows generally have higher air leakage rates than projecting or hinged windows.
Another downside of casement windows is that they may not be as secure as other window styles, such as sash windows. This is because casement windows often only have one locking point, which can be forced open. If security is a top priority for you, then casement windows may not be your first choice.
The hinge arms could be binding, stuck, or damaged. Also, the casement sash may have debris or dirt stuck on the outside that makes it difficult to close. Also, check to make sure that the lock is not in a locked position and blocking the window from closing all the way.
While locks are not needed to prevent casement windows from being opened from the outside, you can install a secondary lock for peace of mind. Cam locks work well with casement windows. If the frame of your casement window is old, rotting, or otherwise compromised, your casement window can be removed.
Power windows have become so common that by 2008, some automakers eliminated hand crank windows from all their models.
Crank windows were standard up until the late 1980s. By 2008, power windows became so common that automakers stopped making crank windows.
Safety and Security
To break in through a casement window, a thief would have to actually break the glass. And of course you can prevent that from occurring by choosing tempered or laminated glass for your replacement windows, which a burglar would have to hit repeatedly, making a lot of noise, to break.
Since they're crank-operated, casement and awning windows are among the easiest to baby proof. All you need to do is remove the crank handle! That's right, if your casement and awning window has a removable handle (most do), simply unscrew it and put it in a safe place so you can reattach it later.
Install a chain lock (the same type used on doors) to limit the distance the window will open. Then, for maximum security, fasten it to the sash and frame with the longest screws that the window will accommodate.
They Provide Excellent Ventilation – The hinged design of the casement allows the window to swing fully open, making casement windows ideal for large rooms that require lots of airflow. Consider casement windows when choosing replacement windows for moisture-prone areas of your home such as the kitchen or bathroom.
The wind can cause un-repairable damage to many types of windows, especially casement windows. It's so nice to open the windows after the long winter, but beware!! A medium size gust of spring wind can rip an opened casement sash right off its hinges.
Deciding which type of window is better value comes down to your preferences. If safety is your top priority then tilt and turn will be the best value. If you prioritise energy-saving then casement windows may be the best value for you.
Casement windows, those that swing open with hinges on the sides, will have air leaks around the windows when the weather stripping is loose and the window does not lock in place effectively.
Summary. Choosing between casement and sliding windows can be a struggle but a good investment in the end. The double sliding window is more secure than the casement windows. However, casement windows provide full ventilation since they open all the way compared to sliding windows.
The biggest benefit of casement windows, is that they are capable of providing 100% ventilation of the opening, unlike double hung windows which provide a maximum of 50%.
Awning Windows
These windows offer superior ventilation and are considered to be the highest performing on the market, much like the Marvin® Windows we install. Our Marvin Windows have incorporated smooth operation with a multipoint locking system that offers cleaning and maintenance ease.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
These windows can be hinged left or hinged right (as viewed from the outside) and are operated with a roto- gear and crank. Casement windows provide almost 100% ventilation area, because they can be fully opened and the out-swinging sash can direct plenty of air into the building.