Getting the right type of windows for your property is incredibly important and can make a huge difference. Of course, having the right set of windows will help to improve your property’s insulation and therefore your energy efficiency. At the same time, it will also help to improve the appearance and aesthetics of your home. Thus, creating a better look both from the outside and the inside. Windows also impact your privacy, your security, and more – so be sure to do your research and get the right windows for the job.
To help you get started, this post will examine the differences between casement vs double-hung windows – two popular options.
Difference between Casement vs Double-Hung Windows
What is a Casement Window?
A casement window is hinged on one side and opens outward like a door, operated by a crank handle. When you turn the crank mechanism, the window sash swings open, typically to 90 degrees or more. Casement windows are also known as “crank windows” due to this distinctive operation.
How Casement Windows Operate
- Hinged on the left or right side of the frame
- Crank handle rotates to open and close the window
- Swings outward from your home
- Latch lock pulls the sash tightly against the frame when closed
- Usually designed in a vertical, rectangular orientation
Casement Window Pros
- Maximum ventilation: Opens completely for unobstructed airflow
- Superior energy efficiency: Compression seal creates an airtight barrier, reducing air leakage by up to 25% compared to double-hung
- Unobstructed views: No center rail divides the glass
- Easy to operate: Crank mechanism requires minimal effort, perfect for hard-to-reach locations like above kitchen sinks
- Tight seal improves insulation: When closed, prevents drafts
- Better screen protection: Screens mounted on interior, protected from weather
- Enhanced security: Difficult to open from outside when latched
Casement Window Cons
- Requires exterior clearance: Must have space outside for the window to swing open
- Higher cost: More complex mechanics make them more expensive (sometimes up to 2x the cost of double-hung)
- Won’t accommodate window AC units: Outward swing design doesn’t work with portable air conditioners
- Potential for hinge wear: Moving parts can wear over time with heavy use
- Limited size options: Very large casement windows may have weight limitations
Best For
- Kitchen windows above sinks or countertops
- Hard-to-reach locations where crank operation is easier
- Rooms requiring maximum ventilation (bathrooms, laundry rooms)
- Modern or contemporary home styles
- Energy-conscious homeowners prioritizing efficiency
- Areas with scenic views you want unobstructed
What is a Double-Hung Window?
A double-hung window features two sashes that slide vertically within the frame. Both the upper and lower sashes can move up and down independently, providing flexible ventilation options. This classic window style is one of the most common in American homes.
How Double-Hung Windows Operate
- Two sashes that slide vertically in separate tracks
- Both top and bottom sashes can open independently
- No crank mechanism; you lift or lower each sash by hand
- Many modern versions feature tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning
- Balance springs or counterweights keep sashes in position when open
Note: Single-hung windows look similar but only the bottom sash moves.
Double-Hung Window Pros
- Versatile ventilation: Open bottom for cool air, top for warm air release—ideal for temperature regulation
- No exterior clearance needed: Sashes slide vertically, so no outdoor space required
- Classic, timeless design: Fits traditional, colonial, Victorian, and farmhouse styles
- Accommodates window AC units: Perfect for portable air conditioning
- Easy interior cleaning: Tilt-in sashes allow cleaning both sides from inside
- Lower cost: Simpler construction makes them more affordable than casement
- Flexible screen placement: Exterior screens stay in place while allowing airflow
- Safer for children: Can open just the top sash for ventilation while keeping lower sash closed
Double-Hung Window Cons
- Potential for air leakage: Sliding seals can develop gaps over time, reducing energy efficiency
- Less energy-efficient than casement: Can’t match the airtight seal of casement windows
- Obstructed views: Horizontal check rail in center divides the viewing area
- Limited ventilation: Only half the window can open at a time
- Can be harder to operate: Requires lifting sashes, which may be difficult above counters or furniture
- Balance mechanisms can fail: Springs or counterweights may need replacement over time
Best For
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- Traditional or historic homes requiring period-appropriate windows
- Bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms where classic aesthetics matter
- Homes with limited exterior space (near walkways, patios, landscaping)
- Rooms needing window AC units
- Areas where outward-swinging windows would create obstructions
- Budget-conscious homeowners seeking quality at lower cost
Key Differences Between Casement and Double-Hung Windows
Energy Efficiency
Casement windows have a clear advantage. They create a compression seal on all four sides when closed. The latch pulls the sash tightly against the frame, preventing air leakage. Studies show casement windows can be up to 25% more energy-efficient than double-hung windows, potentially saving homeowners significant money on heating and cooling costs.
Double-hung windows have more potential for air leakage because the sashes must slide within tracks. The seals need to be loose enough for smooth operation, creating opportunities for drafts. Quality double-hung windows with proper weather sealing can still provide good energy performance, but they generally can’t match casement efficiency.
Ventilation & Airflow
Casement windows open fully providing complete, unobstructed airflow. They’re particularly effective at capturing side breezes and directing them into your home, making them excellent for cross-ventilation. This full opening quickly removes moisture, heat, and odors.
Double-hung windows provide more flexible ventilation control. Open just the top sash to release warm air while keeping the bottom closed for safety. Or open the bottom to bring in cool air. Only half the window opening is ever available at once, less total airflow than a fully opened casement.
View & Aesthetics
Casement windows offer uninterrupted views because there’s no horizontal rail dividing the glass. This makes them ideal for scenic locations. Their clean, contemporary lines work well in modern home styles.
Double-hung windows have a horizontal check rail where the two sashes meet, dividing your view but creating the classic proportions associated with traditional American architecture—the standard for colonial, Victorian, and historic homes.
Screen Placement
Casement windows have screens mounted on the interior, protecting them from weather, dirt, and damage. Interior screens take up indoor space when the window is open but last longer and stay cleaner.
Double-hung windows have screens on the exterior. This keeps the interior view cleaner but exterior screens accumulate more dirt, pollen, and weather damage, requiring more frequent cleaning.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Modern versions of both types make cleaning easy. Casement windows often feature “Easy Wash” hinges that swing open wide enough to reach exterior glass from inside. Double-hung windows have tilt-in sashes for cleaning both surfaces from inside.
Casement windows have more moving parts (cranks, hinges) requiring occasional lubrication. Double-hung windows may need balance spring replacement over time, especially with heavy use.
Things to Consider When Choosing
Budget
Casement windows cost 1.5-2x more than double-hung due to complex mechanics. However, they may offset higher costs through energy savings over time—potentially saving hundreds annually in cold climates like Nebraska.
Exterior Obstructions
Before choosing casement, check for:
- Walkways or patios outside
- Shrubs, trees, or landscaping blocking outward swing
- Deck railings or outdoor furniture
- Foot traffic areas
Window Air Conditioning
Need AC units? Double-hung is your only option. Casement windows can’t accommodate portable air conditioners.
Best Windows by Room
Kitchen: Casement
- Easy crank operation above sinks
- Maximum ventilation removes cooking odors
- Clear views while working
Bathroom: Both Work
- Casement: Better ventilation for showers
- Double-hung: Flexible ventilation, open top for privacy
Bedroom: Double-Hung
- Classic look fits most décor
- Open top for overnight ventilation with security
Living/Dining: Depends on Style
- Double-hung: Traditional styling
- Casement: Modern aesthetics, unobstructed views
So what do you choose?
There are many other options for your windows and every home is different. The secret is just finding the perfect installation to suit your décor and your lifestyle.
North Country Windows & Baths | Window Company in Lincoln, NE
At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.
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