Energy Efficiency: Double-Hung vs. Casement Windows
One of the best returns you can get in the way of home improvement projects is investing in replacement windows. They add curb appeal, they can be more functional, and they deliver increased energy efficiency that can help you save on utility bills. But which kind of replacement windows are best for your home? If you’ve already decided on replacing your windows, you’ve probably done some preliminary research into what kind of replacements you might want to have installed. Below you’ll find some useful information that will help you decide between casement windows and double-hung windows.
The glass itself
You have to consider the glass itself whenever you’re thinking about replacing your windows. If you should invest in either double-paned or triple-paned windows, you’ll have a tremendous level of energy efficiency that would be hard to beat. These types of windows will ensure that your entire family remains comfortable, regardless of the season or the weather. With regard to the glass, our two window types are equally beneficial, since casement windows can be obtained with either double or triple panes.
Window seals
When it comes to obtaining the best possible seal for closing your windows, we have to give the nod to casement windows. All four sides of a casement window are securely sealed when closed, and every time you crank them shut, you’ll feel the seal being engaged tightly. Cranking your windows closed also involves less effort than having to hoist them into a closed position. Double-hung windows may not be quite as tightly sealed as casement windows, but if you keep them free of dirt and debris, they can be locked into position for an efficient seal.
Ventilation
Most health agencies recommend that you open your windows periodically, to ventilate your household. Of course, this is not practical during wintertime, nor during the heat of summer. But there are times throughout the year when it’s safe and practical do crank them open to get some fresh air in the household. The winner in the ventilation category is casement windows, since they can easily be cranked wide open to let in all the outdoor freshness. Any room equipped with two casement windows can enjoy a delightful cross breeze that will liven up the whole room. You can achieve a reasonable approximation of the same effect with double-hung windows, if you open them wide and start up a ceiling fan in the room.
Situational practicality
Another thing to consider when deciding between these two window types is situational practicality. For instance, you probably wouldn’t want to install a casement window (which opens outward) in an area that opens up on a hallway or where they might obstruct room activities. On the other hand, you probably wouldn’t want to install double-hung windows over a kitchen sink, since it would be difficult to hoist them up while leaning forward. So, before you choose between one or the other type of window, make sure you give some thought to the area where it’s being installed, and if it makes sense to proceed with that type of window.
