Quick Guide to Casement Windows for Your Cincinnati Home

If you’ve ever seen windows that open to the side with a small crank, these were casement windows. Though not as popular as they once were, casement windows are still a great choice for many Cincinnati homes. Whether you currently have casement windows and are planning on replacing them, or you’re looking for an alternative to your current window style, it’s worth learning a bit more about casement windows and their benefits.

How Do Casement Windows Work?

Casement windows are fitted with a hinge on one side. When you turn the crank, which is usually located along the bottom of the window frame, the window hinges open. When you close the window, you can lock it shut by flipping a lever-like apparatus to one side.

What are the Benefits of Casement Windows?

Casement windows fit in with the architecture of many more traditionally styled Cincinnati homes. They also offer these benefits for homeowners:

• Energy efficiency: Since the windows lock so tightly into the frame, little to no air will seep through. This reduces your heating bills in the winter and your cooling bills in the summer.
• Safety: If you have kids and pets, casement windows are quite a safe choice. The cranks are not easy for small hands (or paws) to operate. You can open the window just a crack and lock it in place so nobody is at risk of falling out.
• Ventilation: Since the windows open to the side, they’re great at catching side breezes. Your home will stay airy and well ventilated.
• Ease of Cleaning: Since these windows opens to a 90 degree angle, both interior and exterior sides can be cleaned from the inside.
• Security: One locking handle activates the lock assembly with up to three locking points per sash.

How Can You Customize Your Casement Windows?

Casement windows are easy to customize. You can choose your favorite interior color, like sandstone, a pale tan color, or natural oak. If you prefer, you can add character to your casement window with a grille. Even the hardware can be customized to match your Cincinnati home. Options range from brass to satin nickel. The hardware is more predominant on casement windows than on other styles, so be sure to choose a color you like.

What Materials Are Used for Casement Windows?

In Cincinnati, you need glass that will keep heat inside during the winter, and the hot sunshine out during the summer. Consider double-pane glass; the layer of gas between the glass panels acts as an insulator in the bitter-cold Ohio winter. Low-e glass, likeSmartSun™ glass is a highly efficient choice. It is 70% more efficient in summer and 45% more efficient in winter, and it blocks 95% of harmful UV rays. You can even choose glass with a bit of tinting if you prefer.

For the window frames and sashes, we highly recommend Fibrex®. This is Andersen’s proprietary wood composite material. It resists rot and decay, and you don’t have to worry about scraping and painting it as you would with traditional wooden window frames. Andersen makes Fibrex from the wood fibers that are leftover from other production processes, making them a sustainable choice for your eco-friendly home. Since Fibrex resists expansion and contraction when the temperature changes, it’s a good choice in Cincinnati where the weather can change at the drop of a hat.

Every homeowner’s needs are different. Renewal by Andersen’s knowledgeable associates can help you choose the best casement windows for your Cincinnati home. We can answer all your questions. Call today to schedule your free in-home consultation.