A Guide to Casement Windows and Sash Windows
Of all the styles of uPVC windows to choose from, casement and sash windows are by far the most popular. So, what is the difference? And which style of window will be better suited for your home?
With so many styles and colours to choose from, picking new windows can be a complicated and complex process, to say the least. This is especially relevant with the abundance of uPVC options on the modern market – twenty years ago, white casement windows were the only choice when it came to refurbishing your home with double-glazed uPVC. Fortunately, there have been a number of technological advancements in recent years, meaning there are now more styles, colours and choices of hardware than ever before.
Operation
A key difference between casement windows and sash windows is the way in which each style operates. Sash windows operate vertically, with the bottom half of the window sliding upwards. Popular in both the Georgian era and Victorian era during the 18th and 19th centuries, the unique operation of sash windows has made them an enduring style ideal for preserving historic homes.
In contrast to sash windows, casement windows operate on your choice of a vertical or horizontal hinge. They can also open either inwards or outwards depending on the way in which they’ve been engineered. As a result, casement windows tend to open wider than traditional sash windows and are considering a more contemporary alternative.
Security
Historically, casement windows were more secure than sash windows. This is because they are traditionally manufactured with a hook-shaped arm that is embedded in the frame as well as tight weather-proof seals, making the design more difficult to break and tamper with. However, with a number of technological advancements in the manufacturing industry in recent years, both casement windows and sash windows are now both highly secure. Engineered with durable double glazing, innovative internal beading and multi-point locking mechanisms, you can rest assured that your home will be kept safe and sound regardless of what style you choose.
Energy efficiency
These days, casement windows and sash windows are most often engineered from durable uPVC. When manufactured correctly, uPVC windows boast exceptional energy efficiency ratings and can vastly improve the thermal retention of your home. As a result, your home will be warmer, drier and more comfortable – regardless of the season.
This is particularly relevant for homeowners in the midst of historically sensitive renovation projects. If your period home still has its original timber windows, which over time can warp and even rot away, your home may be exposed to the elements. While wanting to keep your original windows is understandable, failing to replace older-style windows can cause a multitude of issues for your property, including the onslaught of damp and mould. Fortunately, uPVC sash windows are the ideal solution. Combining traditional aesthetics with modern conveniences including heightened energy efficiency, modern homeowners no longer have to compromise on the unique features that make their property stand out.
Which is better?
When choosing between casement windows and sash windows, the most important consideration to take into account is the overall aesthetic of your home. Casement windows are inherently modern while sash windows are best suited to historically sensitive restoration projects. However, in saying that, both windows style can be easily utilised in both modern and traditional homes alike.
At the end of the day, choosing between a casement window style and a sash style will come down to the unique specifications of your home, as well as your personal tastes.
Other styles of uPVC windows
Casement and sash windows aren’t the only type of uPVC window available on the market today. Other uPVC styles include…
- Flush casement windows – Identical in operation to a traditional casement style, Flush Casement Windows sit flush in the frame (hence the name) and pair timeless aesthetics with modern convenience including heightened security and energy efficiency. They offer the ease and durability of a classic casement window with the added bonus of a flat, elegant finish.
- Bay windows – Elegant, understated and undeniably timeless, Bay Windows are an iconic symbol of the Victorian era and are suitable in traditional and contemporary homes alike, from 19th-century heritage homes to more modern properties.
- Bow windows – Also known as a compass window, Bow windows usually consist of three or more casement windows carefully manufactured together to form an elegant curve. An alternative to a traditional Bay Window, Bow Windows can add additional space to your interior spaces as well as allow an influx of natural light into your home.
- Tilt and turn windows – Tilt and Turn windows combine versatility with easy operation, dual-purpose opening and modern style and are an ideal and practical choice for any property.
- Leaded and Georgian windows – While Leaded and Georgian Windows aren’t a style in itself, they are an additional feature that can be added to your new uPVC windows. Much like modern Sash Windows, Leaded and Georgian windows combine modern conveniences with classic period features, so you won’t have to compromise on your home’s historical features.
uPVC windows at Majestic Designs
If you’re about to invest in new uPVC windows for your home, you may be feeling overwhelmed by choice when it comes to style and colour. At the end of the day, the style of window you choose, whether that be casement or sash, will come down to your own personal tastes as well as the unique specifications of your home.
For more than 21 years, Majestic Designs has manufactured our range of high-quality uPVC products right here in Somerset. Engineered in our state-of-the-art factories, our uPVC windows boast an A+14 energy efficiency rating, combining exceptional energy efficiency and security with undeniable style and elegance.
If you would like any more information about our range of uPVC windows, then contact the team at Majestic Designs today.
