What Are Casement Windows?
What Are Casement Windows?
Windows greatly impact the character and appearance of a home. They improve the aesthetics of a home and bring in natural light. Windows, while needing to look good, also serve a major purpose in the home, which is safety and security as well as energy efficiency.
When considering finish and style, there are many available options, ranging from contemporary, minimalist, decorative, ornate, modern, and traditional.
In this article, we discuss casement windows and why they are a good choice for your home.
The History of Casement Windows
Casement windows emerged back in the 18th Century as a replacement for the older stone mullioned windows after which they became so popular that they replaced many other types of windows.
Casement’ refers to the part of the window that opens. Glass manufacturing was still a new concept and each casement would have six small panels that were joined together by glazing bars.
Early designs used lead for latticing but towards the mid-19th century, timber became the main material for latticing.
Designs also improved to become more elaborate and ornate with windows featuring designs such as the gothic arches.
Casement Windows Over The Centuries
The basic concept of a casement window has been incorporated into modern designs and has over time evolved in line with the fashions of today. They have been used in many home types such as:
Tudor homes – casement windows in these homes often had many panes, in rectangular or diamond shapes and set within timber or stone openings.
Stuart homes – Windows became taller and the casements were divided into four by a single mullion. They were now being constructed using timber and were referred to as cross-casement windows.
Georgian homes – Sash windows started to become popular, replacing casement windows. They, however, continued to be used in cottage homes and small rural homes.
Victorian homes – Advanced glass production trends saw the emergence of larger glass panes set within timber glazing bars. Casement windows become more decorative.
Edwardian homes – Casement windows in these homes were, in contrast, of simple and plainer designs. They used large panes, but they were not as large as those used in modern-day designs
Where Are Casement Windows Used?
Casement windows are majorly used in two distinct architectural designs:
- Cottage applications: These consist of much smaller windows with glazing bars and small casements.
- Contemporary application: These are much larger windows without transoms, mullions, or glazing bars. They offer great views due to their size.
Different Materials And Finishes
Casement windows can be designed in several different ways. These include:
Choice of Timber
The most popular timber choices include Meranti, Iroko, Accoya, Sapele, and Oak. Each of these materials has a distinct performance, durability, density, character, and color properties. It is vital to select the right timber for your needs, to ensure that it is sustainable and suitable for your home.
Oak and Sapele are more ideal for casement windows due to their resilience to weathering.
Finish
Windows are supplied either fully finished, partly finished, or unfinished. If a finish is required, oil, lacquer, and paint can be added for better results.
Key Advantages Of Casement Windows
Casement windows have several advantages as discussed below:
Adding a fanlight helps to adjust room temperature and ventilation. - They are child-friendly as the opening distance is limited hence preventing falls
- They conform to energy and security requirements
- They are highly energy efficient
- They are very secure
- Smaller casements give off a more traditional feel and look
- They require fewer glazing bars for better and clearer views
- They offer a fully open window for light and a good view
- They are suitable for cottages and other contemporary property
Disadvantages Of Casement Windows
- Casement windows have more mechanical parts, such as hinges, stays, fasteners, which means they are more likely to fail.
- They don’t have much character when compared to other window types such as sash windows.
The Best Choice of Windows
When shopping for windows for your home, either for new installations or for replacement, it is wise to consult with FTC Oury Group at (630) 686- 7618 to help you make a choice that will not only improve the aesthetics of your home but improve energy efficiency and functionality as well.
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