So you’ve already taken the first steps to getting some new windows installed in your home; you’ve made the decision. But choosing the right windows for you property really isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are a variety of different factors in play, from function and security through to aesthetics and how it affects the value of your home. For some home owners who are young and buying their first property it may all be about the value, for those looking to settle down for good they may want to indulge in a particular design that catches their eye or focus more on security. Whatever your overall objective is when it comes to fittingnew windows and doorsthere’s a lot to consider, and a lot at stake.
Of course, windows come in all different shapes and sizes, and it’s not as simple as pointing at a design and saying ‘that’s that one!’
Two of the most popular choices when it comes tobuying new windows and doorsare wood sash windowsandwood casement windows.Most decisions you make around which window is right for your property will likely fall into one of these camps. Both are from Edwardian, Georgian and Victorian style craftsmanship so the variety you can have across sash and casement windows is pretty impressive. At the end of the day it comes down to what’s right for you. Here are some facts about each type and the associated advantages to help you with your decision making process.
Wood casement windows
Casement windows are traditionally attached with two or more hinges at the sides which give them the ability to open both inwardly and outwardly. While a wide range of materials can be used to craft casement windows,timber casement windowsare by far and away the most popular – perhaps owing to the durability and pleasing aesthetic of timber. One of the things that makes timber casement windows so popular is the ability customise the timber with patterns, varnishes and colours, so they can vary depending on what your needs are. Like most windows, they can be placed on their own in a singular fashion or installed in pairs to create lots of open space and let lots of light flood into a room.
What are the advantages of wood casement windows?
Traditionally, most casement windows have safety catches in place which makes them extremely safe to open and close – something which concern people who aren’t familiar with their operation. Because of their style and how they open, they can also let a lot more airflow into your home than most other windows on the market. They look impressive in modern builds without much effort, but can equally look charming in most older properties with a paint of paint and design work around the timber.
Wood sash windows
The tall tale feature of sash windows is that they slide open rather than opening on a hinge like their casement counterparts. They’re a natural choice for older properties and period homes, and very popular in homes that boast Victorian features or architecture.
What are the advantages of wood sash windows?
One of the biggest selling points of wood sash windows is their attractiveness; they’re very nice to look at and are often the central feature of a living or dining room. Because of the way that these windows open (sliding rather than swinging) you can choose ‘how open’ they are at any given time, choosing to let a small draft through while you’re cooking or throwing them wide open in the heat of summer to keep your home nice and cool.
Whatever kind of windows you choose for your home it’s important that they tick all of the boxes for you; security, aesthetics and function. If you’ve got an older home, be more careful with your window choice as there’s a great chance it will affect the value of your home!
