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VEKA full house casement window pvc great harwood

Casement windows are one of the most popular and versatile window options available. Whether you’re renovating a period property or updating a modern home, understanding the different types of casement windows, sash configurations, and flush designs can help you make an informed decision that enhances both the aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency of your property.

What Are Casement Windows?

Casement windows are hinged windows that open outwards or inwards, typically operated by a handle mechanism. This classic window style has been a staple of British architecture for centuries, evolving from traditional timber designs to today’s high performance uPVC and aluminium options.

The Anatomy of a Casement Window

Understanding the key components helps you appreciate the quality and craftsmanship involved:

  • Frame: The outer structure that secures into the wall aperture
  • Sash: The opening part of the window that holds the glass
  • Hinge: The mechanism allowing the sash to open and close
  • Handle: The control device for locking and operating the window
  • Glazing: The glass unit, typically double or triple glazed for thermal efficiency
  • Weather seals: Gaskets that prevent draughts and water ingress

The beauty of modern casement windows lies in their simplicity and functionality. They provide homeowners with unobstructed views and excellent ventilation when opened fully.

Why Casement Windows Remain So Popular

grey casement windows

There’s a reason casement style windows have stood the test of time. They offer several compelling advantages:

Superior ventilation: Because they open fully, casement windows allow maximum airflow into your home, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces where air circulation is important.

Enhanced security: Modern casement windows feature multi point locking systems that engage at multiple points around the frame, providing excellent security credentials that give homeowners peace of mind.

Energy efficiency: The compression seal created when a casement window closes ensures minimal air leakage, contributing to better thermal performance and lower heating bills.

Easy maintenance: The hinged design allows you to clean both sides of the glass from inside your home (particularly with side hung configurations), making window maintenance considerably easier than fixed or sliding alternatives.

Versatile design: From cottage style properties to contemporary new builds, casement windows complement virtually any architectural style, especially when you choose the right profile and finish.

Types of Casement Windows

Not all casement windows are created equal. The configuration, opening direction, and sash arrangement can vary considerably depending on your property’s requirements and aesthetic preferences.

Side Hung Casement Windows

The most common type of casement window is the side hung variety, where the sash is hinged on the left or right vertical edge. These windows typically open outwards, opening away from the building.

Single casement windows feature just one opening sash, making them perfect for smaller apertures or where space is limited. They’re particularly popular in bathrooms, cloakrooms, and narrow window openings.

Double casement windows incorporate two sashes that meet in the middle with a central mullion (vertical bar). This configuration suits wider window openings and creates a balanced, symmetrical appearance that’s especially attractive in Georgian and Victorian properties.

One sash usually serves as the main opening vent, while the other can be fixed or include a secondary opening mechanism. Some homeowners prefer both sashes to open independently, providing maximum flexibility for ventilation.

Top Hung and Bottom Hung Casements

While less common than side-hung designs, top hung casement windows (hinged at the top and opening outwards) and bottom hung variants (hinged at the bottom) serve specific purposes.

Top hung casements are excellent for high level windows or situations where you want ventilation without fully opening the window space. They’re often used in stairwells, above doors, or in commercial settings.

Bottom hung windows, though rarer in residential properties, can be useful in certain applications where downward opening is preferable, though they’re more commonly seen as awning windows in some architectural contexts.

Flush Casement Windows

White Flush Sash Window Installation

Flush casement windows are characterised by their sleek, streamlined appearance where the sash sits perfectly flush within the frame when closed. This design creates a smooth, flat surface that suits both modern and traditional architecture. Their tight seal helps reduce drafts and noise, making them a popular choice for homeowners who value comfort and performance.

Beyond functionality, flush casement windows are chosen for their refined aesthetic appeal. They mimic the charm of classic cottage-style windows while offering the advantages of contemporary engineering. Their minimalist look works well for heritage properties seeking authenticity as well as new builds aiming for clean, elegant lines. With a variety of colour finishes, glazing options, and hardware styles available, homeowners can customise flush casement windows to complement any design preference.

As you can see, casement windows are a versatile window style that can be customised to suit all property types. If you’d like to find out more about our range of casement windows call 01254 690 009 or e-mail info@greatharwoodwindows.co.uk.

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Based in the heart of Lancashire

Situated in the very heart of Blackburn, we are readily capable of providing the people of East Lancashire and surrounding areas with a range of UPVC, composite and aluminium products. Whether for personal or trade purposes, realising your aspirations are only one step away with Great Harwood Windows team.