Replacement windows have a major impact on your home. They lend to the security, longevity, and beauty of your home’s interior.
Selecting the right replacement windows doesn’t have to be difficult. As a window replacement contractor of some of the highest quality products, we know how frustrating poorly sealed or improperly installed windows can be, which is why we have helped St. Louis homeowners for over 21 years achieve energy-efficiency and beauty through window replacements.
Choosing the right style and color of window that matches the functionality and aesthetic of your home ensures your investment is worthwhile. Double-hung and casement windows are two of the most popular choices for replacement windows. But each comes with its own look and benefits.
What Is a Double-Hung Window?
Double-hung windows are some of the most popular and most commonly used replacement windows in the U.S. They have a sash running through the center, separating the two panes. The bottom sash can be manually moved up and down. Some styles of double-hung windows accommodate for both sashes to move freely.
What Is a Casement Window?
Casement windows open outward and are typically longer horizontally and shorter vertically. Rather than being moved manually, the windows open through the operation of a crank and will extend away from the home.
Which Is Right for Your Home?
The Look
Choosing your window style comes down to preference. It depends on how much unobstructed window pane you want and how traditional you want your windows to be.
Double-hung windows are the most popular window style because they afford a traditional look that can fit into almost any home style. They are both beautiful and durable, and they are perfect for older home remodels, craftsman homes, Tudors, farmhouses, or any other traditional style home.
Casement windows’ lack of panes lends to a more modern style home. They do not have the view-obstructing sashes that runs through the middle of the glass panes, the way double-hung windows do. This allows for unobstructed views when looking out of the window as well as a more streamlined, less ornate finish.
Longevity
Durability may be the most prominent thought on your mind when selecting replacement windows, especially when making such a large investment in your home. So, which of the two styles will last longer?
Double-hung windows tend to be a stronger, more durable window style. Casement windows often face more of the exterior elements due to the way they sit when open, and they, therefore, can wear down faster. However, the primary factor to take into account when looking for a long-lasting window is the frame material.
Fiberglass is one of the most durable window framing options, and high-quality fiberglass casement windows are still an impeccable option for window longevity.
The Use
As we mentioned, casement windows crank to open, while double-hung windows simply slide up and down. Casement windows can take more work to open. However, they are much easier to operate in hard to reach areas such as over a kitchen or bathroom countertop or when the window is large and heavy. Depending on your need for windows, double-hungs tend to be the easier to use option. Although, both remain relatively easy to operate.
Maintenance
Double-hung windows have fewer moving parts, and are, therefore, less likely to experience a mechanical failure. The sashes simply slide along their tracks for movement. On the other hand, casement windows involve the cranking mechanism; and due to the way they open, they are more likely to get bumped and damaged when open. Therefore, double-hung windows tend to require less maintenance.
Cleaning
While older models of double-hung windows tended to be difficult to clean, modern styles of both window options make the cleaning assessment a fairly even race. Casement windows simply need to be cranked open and cleaned on both sides from the exterior of the home. This can sometimes require a step stool or ladder, depending on the height of your home.
Double-hung windows, especially Infinity windows, have been modified for easy cleaning. Many styles now offer tilt-in convenience. Each sash will easily tilt, allowing you easy access to both sides of the pane.
Energy Efficiency
When it comes to efficiency in a home, casement windows will reduce heat loss and drafts due to their more airtight seal. The sash that separates the panes in a double-hung window, can lend to areas of airflow, while the solid frame on the casement windows allows all four corners of the frame to seal shut.
However, new windows, installed by a skilled replacement window contractor, will bring a greater level of insulation to a home, meaning double-hung windows will still provide ample efficiency.
Material can also play a large role in the efficiency of a window itself. Fiberglass windows, particularly Infinity windows, are better insulators than other materials like vinyl. And they are less likely to expand and contract with weather conditions, which helps maintain the seal around the framing.
The Right Window Replacement Contractor for You
Getting the right replacement windows for your home and ensuring your investment pays the greatest dividends boils down to selecting the right style and material of windows and hiring an experienced contractor to install them.
Our Lakeside Renovation and Design team is skilled at installing Infinity Marvin Windows, which are incredibly high caliber fiberglass windows that bring many benefits to your home. With both our installation and the windows we choose to install, our goal is to eliminate your worry over whether the look you want will also bring durability, efficiency, and as little maintenance as possible.
If your home needs replacement windows but you’re still unsure of what style and materials will best fit your space, our team is ready to answer your questions. Contact us for a free consultation, and see how our windows replacements can elevate your home.
