WHAT ARE DOUBLE-HUNG WINDOWS?

Double-hung windows feature two glass panes held within vertical sashes that slide up and down to open. They are particularly advantageous if your home has close landscaping or furniture, as they do not require additional space to open outward.

These windows offer a cozy and homey aesthetic, lending a rustic and historic charm to Farmhouse and Colonial style homes. They also complement Craftsman homes when paired with casement windows.

WHAT ARE CASEMENT WINDOWS?

Casement windows usually feature a large pane of glass, operated by a crank mechanism and hinge on the inside. They swing open like a door, necessitating ample space around them. Replacing casement window can pose challenges if landscaping obstructs access, but they are ideal when unobstructed.

Casement windows are particularly suited to simple and modern homes. They are favored in Traditional, Modern, and Craftsman architectural styles known for their clean aesthetics, neutral colors, and minimalistic designs.

Casement vs Double Hung Windows: What’s the Difference?

LIGHTING EFFICIENCY

Both double-hung and casement windows allow plenty of light into your home, but casement windows are the better option if you’re looking for a bit more natural light.

Casement windows are essentially large panes of glass on hinges, without the horizontal bars in the center that double-hung windows have. This design lets more light into your home and provides an unobstructed view outside.

AIR VENTILATION

Your windows should let plenty of air into your home when they’re open and keep the air outside when they’re closed. While both casement and double-hung windows offer excellent ventilation and energy efficiency, casement windows are ideal in this category.

Casement windows are hinged like a door, allowing the entire window to open at once. In contrast, double-hung windows slide up and down, allowing only half of the window to open, which limits airflow.

Additionally, casement windows are more airtight than double-hung windows because they fit tightly in the window frame, similar to how a door fits in its frame. Double-hung windows have a sliding track system with more crevices, allowing outdoor air to seep into your home.

MAINTENANCE

Cleaning your windows can be a frustrating and time-consuming task, but most modern windows have features that make this easier compared to older styles.

Many double-hung windows now include swing-in sashes, making them much easier to clean. However, casement windows remain the easiest to clean due to their hinged design, which provides easy access to both sides of the windowpane.

SIZE

Depending on how large your old windows are, different replacement window styles may suit your home better. Typically, double-hung windows are larger, so they are a better option if you’re looking to take up more space. Since casement windows are smaller, they can be more expensive to add.

COST

If price is an essential factor for your window replacement, double-hung windows are typically the most cost-effective option. Double-hung windows are more readily available than casement windows and are typically less expensive, too. Casement windows cost more due to their enhanced energy efficiency and modern design.