Benefits of Casement Windows

Casement windows consist of a window attached to its frame by one more hinges.  Households predominantly used this type of window before the more modern sash windows were introduced. They traditionally consisted of framed glass panes that were fixed in place by strips of lead and the window could be opened outwards.

Advantages

Large Window Opening

Casement windows can be opened much further than any other type, since the entire window can be swung open.  This can be compared to the following types of windows. 

Double-hung windows: only the lower portion or the upper portion of the window can be opened but never both. 

Sliding window style: with this type of window only one side can be opened.

Fixed windows: these windows cannot be opened at all.

Casement windows are a popular choice, especially if the size of the window opening is important.

Break-ins

Due to the casement locks being hook-shaped and embedded with the window frame, casement windows are very difficult to force open from the outside, thus making break-ins more difficult. In comparison the double-hung style of window can be opened quite easily by lifting the sash using a long object such as a pry bar.

Air Flow

The large window opening is ideal for allowing large amounts of air flow – into and out of the property. Furthermore, wind which blows sideways along the property wall will find it difficult to penetrate into the windows, thus creating a lack of ventilation. Casement windows open outwards which can essentially direct the flow of air into the house, and can be beneficial for properties that are in close proximity to each other, with only a small space in between the adjacent walls.

Easy to Use

Not only can casement windows be fitted with automatic openers but their single leaver or tandem latches makes opening and closing them a simple task.

Undesirable Properties 

Safety

The fact that casement windows can be opened completely is good for ventilation however; there can be some obvious dangers with this, particularly with small children in multi story buildings.

Air Conditioning

Casement windows typically do not cater well for air-conditioning units since they open outwards, especially when compared to other types such as sliding windows. 

Size Limitations

The window opening must be strong enough to support the weight of the entire of the window when it is opened. This means there are limits on the size of casement windows with constructors recommending smaller, more lightly built windows.

Casement window on Crete (Photo credit: Wikipedia)