Double-Hung vs. Casement Windows — What’s the Difference?

Whether you need to replace old windows or outfit a new construction, double-hung windows and casement windows can be excellent options.

Double-hung and casement windows offer vastly different benefits to a room and one must consider the placement, overall aesthetic and other critical needs for each replacement window. You may find that a combination of both types will bring the most value to your home.

Customized windows allow homeowners to install various windows throughout the house — even designs entirely different from the original. At Homespire Windows and Doors, we can help walk you through all your options and offer custom windows that best achieve your vision. When choosing between double-hung and casement windows, we know what factors are likely to influence your decision. Update your home with double-hung, casement or both types of windows can improve your quality of life.

What Are Double-Hung and Casement Windows?

Double-hung windows have operable upper and lower sashes that can be raised or lowered by hand. Vertically slide one or both windowpane units to form various configurations throughout the day. Single-hung windows have permanently fixed upper sashes and cannot provide the same level of control. Even though many homeowners typically keep their upper sash in place, this ability to adjust both units can offer many benefits.

Casement windows have a hinge on one side that allows them to swing open horizontally like a door. Homeowners use a crank located inside the home to open and close their windows. Most casement windows swing outward toward the home’s exterior to a 90-degree angle. Homespire’s innovative design enables you to open our casement windows to any angle for maximum control. When the window is closed, you can fully secure it with an interior latch.

Double-Hung vs. Casement Windows

When it’s time to install new windows, replacement windows can improve your quality of life in multiple ways. The following aspects of each window type can help you choose the windows that add the most value to your home.

Mechanical Functions

The operation methods used in double-hung and casement windows are immensely different. Double-hung windows slide vertically up and down, while casement windows swing open horizontally or sideways at the hinge. Casements reduce the physical effort needed to open your window — a benefit that’s absent from double-hung windows. Instead, homeowners must lift and lower double-hung windows by hand. Casement windows have a crank that operates the opening mechanism with minimal exertion.

People with limited mobility will significantly benefit from casement windows’ accessible functions. Double-hung windows offer a different benefit. They are more reliable than casement windows due to their smaller amount of mechanical parts. Fewer mechanisms mean lower failure rates and repair costs. The interior crank on casement windows can slowly loosen over time.

Cost

Double-hung windows have a higher consumer demand, so the marketplace is more reasonable. Casement windows are usually more expensive than double-hung windows, due to their more complex mechanical operations and lack of manufacturer competition.

When considering cost, consider the upfront value and any future savings or spending. Casement windows experience more exposure to the elements and may require more frequent repairs. When you work with Homespire, either window type can save you up to 35% on your energy bill. Our advanced designs help make your home more energy-efficient, whether you choose double-hung or casement windows.

Durability

Since casement windows open outward, they typically have higher exposure to the elements. Casements may even degrade faster in wet climates than double-hung windows. Double-hung windows are low-maintenance and highly durable. When secured flat in the frame, they can withstand harsh weather for a much longer time. Both window designs are resistant to outdoor intruders and severe weather when shut. Choose windows with the structural integrity to withstand the climate in your area.

At Homespire, we design and manufacture all our windows with the quality to last a lifetime. Whether you need double-hung or casement windows, Homespire can ensure long-lasting products to reinforce your home. We offer security windows with highly durable, 12-layer tempered glass in casement and double-hung window designs. The windows’ invisible security bars and fusion-welded construction will help strengthen your home security. While double-hung windows are typically the most durable, Homespire can offer various advanced designs with the strength you need to remain safe.

Seal

Double-hung windows form a consistently tight seal along the bottom and two sides. The sashes fit snugly in the side tracks, so the top is the only part where air could seep through. This seal operation works differently among various window types. However, you can usually limit the amount of air seepage with a high-quality seal.

When fully secured, casement windows have a firm seal around the entire perimeter. The casement sash presses tightly against the weatherstripping to prevent any air from seeping in or out. The interior latch holds the windowpane unit in place against its seals.

By design, Infinity from Marvin windows can handle a changing climate. All our double-hung and casement windows feature quality seals to maintain a safe and comfortable home all year long.

Energy Efficiency

Tighter seals mean more energy-efficient windows for your home. Casement windows are excellent for limiting air intrusion and a perfect choice for increased energy efficiency. Its latch tightly seals all four sides of a casement sash against the window pane’s weatherstripping. Double-hung windows offer a comparable seal, even though they operate differently.

Infinity from Marvin windows — whether double-hung or casement — could make your home up to 54% more energy-efficient. Our advanced designs use quality seals to ensure a highly energy-efficient product. Since the seals tackle any parts that might allow for air seepage, our double-hung windows are almost as energy-efficient as our casements.

Ventilation

Double-hung and casement windows both provide excellent ventilation. You can open the upper and lower sashes of double-hung windows for increased airflow into your home. Alternatively, casement windows can amplify outside breezes and circulate fresh air, depending on the location and angle of the sash. At Homespire, we back our quality windows with a true Signature Warranty, so you won’t have to worry about condensation within the glass or poor circulation throughout your house.

Aesthetics

Many homeowners use double-hung windows to achieve a classic style that can match most traditional homes. Even contemporary homes can have double-hung windows and still maintain a modern appearance. If your home currently has single-hung windows, consider upgrading to a double-hung design. They offer the same aesthetics and provide many beneficial opportunities.

You can customize both window types with a wide selection of colors, styles and other add-ons. The most significant differences come from the distinct window designs themselves. Double-hung windows have a classic-looking horizontal bar at the center to separate the window’s two sashes when closed. This meeting rail can hinder your view of the outside. Casement windows will be the better option if open visibility is essential.

Homeowners with a more contemporary aesthetic usually prefer casement windows for their clean lines and simple geometry. Casement windows are excellent for kitchens and dining rooms, since they provide a clear, unobstructed view of the outside. They work well in various window sizes and styles, including bay or bow windows.

Cleaning

It’s easy to clean both sides of double-hung sashes from inside the comfort of your home. The upper and lower sashes open and tilt inward for quick access to the outward-facing windowpane. Double-hung windows have their screens outside the window, so you can quickly clean the interior glass. You can remove the screens at any time for efficient and thorough cleaning.

Casement windows are more challenging to clean from the inside, since the sash opens outward and away from the user. It is possible to clean the outward-facing glass from the home’s interior, though some homeowners feel more comfortable washing them from the outside. The window’s location can significantly affect how easy it is to clean. Casement screens placed inside the window are more accessible than double-hung screens.

Glass Options

Different glass options can help prevent seal failure, enhance home security or prohibit heat transfer. Double-hung and casement windows can have double-pane or triple-pane glass, depending on your needs. Consider using triple-pane glass in windows that get daily direct sunlight, like those used in sunrooms and other open spaces. The triple-pane glass will help maintain a safe and comfortable temperature throughout the house.

The Pros and Cons of Double-Hung and Casement Windows

Homeowners must consider the pros and cons of both types to ensure the best replacement windows for their homes. Double-hung and casement windows can make excellent replacement windows for any home. Since each option is vastly different, you should install window designs with the most practical advantages.

Double-Hung Windows: Pros and Cons

Double-hung windows are a classic, practical choice for many homeowners. Double-hung windows offer several unique benefits, including the following.

• Improved safety: A closed lower sash helps keep children and pets safe. Double-hung windows allow you to open the upper sash whenever you need fresh air. The lower sash remains shut and secure, while the upper sash provides your home a refreshing breeze.
• Easy cleaning: The upper and lower sashes are easy to clean from the inside. Open and tilt the sashes inward for quick and effective access to the outward-facing glass.
• Reliable operation: Double-hung windows have a lower failure rate due to their simplicity. They have fewer mechanical parts and are less likely to require repair.
• Maximized airflow: This window type’s dual function allows more natural light and fresh air to enter the home. Increase circulation when both sashes are open.

The following challenges of double-hung windows might significantly impact your decision.

• Double-hung windows are more challenging to raise and lower: The sashes are hand-operated and require physical force to open or close. People with limited mobility may need assistance to adjust their windows. This challenge may outweigh any benefits if you cannot safely or comfortably operate the upper sash.
• Double-hung windows can experience dropped windows: Your home will become less energy-efficient if the lower sash refuses to stay up. A quality seal can prohibit this problem, though homeowners may prefer a more secure design for maximum energy efficiency.

Casement Windows: Pros and Cons

Casement windows can best address particular homeowner needs due to their unique operation and design. These advantages include the following.

• Easy operation: The interior lever allows anyone with limited mobility to operate the window. Users can easily access the lever without putting stress or strain on their bodies.
• Controlled airflow: Casement windows can open to a 90-degree angle and direct outside breezes into the home. The casement designs at Homespire allow you to position them at virtually any angle for even greater air control.
• Energy efficiency: The weathertight seal offers maximum energy efficiency to your home. You can latch the window to secure it against the seal on all four sides. You could see a decrease in utility costs by upgrading to casement windows.

Advanced designs and quality installation can help address any complications. Look out for the following design challenges when planning a replacement with casement windows:

• Adjacent casement windows can interfere with the operation.
• Consider any outside obstructions and walkways in the design.
• Standard window air conditioner units cannot fit in casement windows.
• Forceful wind can catch on open casement sashes and tear them away.
• The outside glass on casement windows is more challenging to clean.
• The interior crank can gradually loosen and allow more air seepage over time.
• Opening and closing multiple casement windows can be a time-consuming process.

What Are the Best Locations for Double-Hung and Casement Windows?

Homeowners frequently have double-hung windows installed in bedrooms due to their operable upper and lower sashes. The window allows for increased ventilation when both sashes are open. This double function also brings plenty of natural sunlight into sunrooms and other spaces where you’ll appreciate the extra light.

Casement windows work well in kitchens and dining rooms. They are easy to open in difficult-to-reach locations like above the sink or behind countertops. Casement windows have open visibility, which is ideal for rooms with a view. You can watch the beautiful landscape unobstructed from the comfort of your home.

Windows located near walkways, decks, patios or other outside structures may significantly influence the type of replacements you can install. Casement windows can obstruct your use of these areas since they swing outward. Adjacent casement windows can also interfere with the operation for this exact reason. Double-hung windows are typically a better choice in these locations to avoid creating a hazardous or inoperable situation.

Contact Homespire Windows and Doors for Your Window Replacement

Whether you decide to add double-hung or casement windows to your home, Homespire can help you review your options and provide custom windows to fit your vision. Our installers are familiar with the Mid-Atlantic Region’s needs, allowing you to focus on your family. We install U.S.-made products designed to protect your home while saving you energy.

Call us at 833-684-1873 today, or fill out a form to request a free window analysis from one of our highly-trained representatives.