Casement windows, a style that hinges open to the side with a crank, are sometimes thought of as outdated or old-fashioned. But this could not be further from the truth. Homeowners everywhere are re-embracing casement windows for a number of reasons.
Power windows have become so common that by 2008, some automakers eliminated hand crank windows from all their models.
If both panes are opened at the same time, then you can enjoy maximum ventilation. Crank windows are a better choice if you are looking for more ventilation. However, homeowners living in extreme weather conditions or severe allergies may choose sliding windows.
If security is a top priority for you, then casement windows may not be your first choice. To summarise, the main disadvantages of casement windows are: They can be expensive. They may not be as secure as other types of windows.
Rolling down your car windows is now a thing of the past – crank windows in the US are no more. The last car to have held onto them as a feature has now jumped ship. The 2025 Wrangler JL has ditched them, after holding out for years.
Casement Windows. Casement windows are hinged on the side and crank open outward to the left or right allowing for full top to bottom ventilation. Common above kitchen sinks, casement windows give you the flexibility to group them in stunning combinations.
The Benefits Of Casement Window Safety
They are also one of the safest types of windows for you to have in your home. It is incredibly easy to childproof casement windows. If you have small children, you can remove the crank from the window. This makes it more difficult for young children to open them and climb out.
Compared to double-hung windows, casement windows don't typically last as long since they open outward and are exposed to natural elements. However, with proper care, your casement windows can still last up to 30 years. Selecting a durable window material like vinyl can also help your window last longer.
Window replacement can be an expensive renovation to undertake so it's important to take a look at the casement vs double hung cost comparison. Casement window costs are on average 10% more expensive than double hung windows due to the complex mechanisms involved in the crank opening.
Casement windows are not old-fashioned; they offer a sleek, modern appearance and can be designed to suit contemporary homes.
One of the most common hassles homeowners have with casement windows is difficulty opening them due to the sashes becoming stuck. This can be attributed to neglected hardware, malfunctioning window locks or expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
While casement windows open outwards using a crank, double hung windows also known as double-sash windows move up and down within a frame. These windows are one of the most common replacement window styles. They are easy to operate and clean.
The handle can also break over time, but it often does so because of stripped gears or a sticking window. Instead of simply replacing the handle, it is a good idea to check for other issues at the same time.
As long as the other parts of your window are in good shape, you can replace just the window crank without replacing the entire casement window. Just remember it's important to find the right replacement crank that fits your window.
Advantages of Crank Windows
The whole window opens for the best airflow. Cross winds can be scooped in by the sash and sent inside the home for improved ventilation. It is the quietest and most energy-efficient openable window available thanks to compression seal technology.
Casement windows are a popular choice today, and rightfully so. Because they crank open and swing outward, they're a great choice for homeowners that prefer unobstructed sightlines. Unlike other windows, casement windows have no center rail.
Casement windows, a style that hinges open to the side with a crank, are sometimes thought of as outdated or old-fashioned. But this could not be further from the truth. Homeowners everywhere are re-embracing casement windows for a number of reasons.
The age of your windows is a good indicator of when they need replacing. While old windows might still be functional, there's a good chance they're not very efficient. Windows that are over 20 years old should be replaced.
Casement windows offer excellent ventilation, energy efficiency, and unobstructed views, making them a great choice for many homes. They are easy to operate with a crank mechanism and provide a tight seal for better insulation and weather resistance.
Some casement windows don't come with screens, which can be a problem for homeowners with children. For those that do come with screens, the screens are positioned on the inside of the window which can make the screens more vulnerable to breakage and tearing.
Removing the crank handles on your windows is a simple and easy solution to prevent your child (and you) from opening them…just be careful not to damage the handle with your super strength – you'll need to put it back on when you want to crack it open in the future!