The world of windows is surprisingly complex.
Naturally, windows come in many shapes and sizes. They can be tailored to exact specifications, but the real complexity lies in their style and function. If you don’t own your own home you’ve probably never given it much thought. When we come to invest in a property these things begin to matter. Particularly when it comes to things like energy efficiency, security, and increasing your property’s value. After all, there’s little point in installing new windows and doors if they’re not going to add to your property’s value. You need to make your investment work for you.
The two most popular styles of windows on the market today are casement windows and sliding sash windows. Both have their distinct advantages. If you’re looking to install new windows and are struggling to come to a decision, these pointers might help.
Casement windows – when to choose
Casement windows are usually attached to two or more hinges at their sides. This means they can open either inwards or outwards. They are an extremely versatile window that comes in a variety of different materials. From timber and oak through to more modern (though less desirable) UPVc. Glazing can be doubled or even tripled in order to maximize energy efficiency. They can be decorated with leaded strips or paneled glass. Casement windows are a great choice for the summer months. They open extremely wide and with a lot of ease. They are held securely in place which makes them very sturdy in the wind. They fit the Georgian style of décor very well. So they are a popular choice in older, period properties. When fitted with the right frame a casement window can really add a lot of character and charm.
Sash Windows – When to choose
Unlike casement windows, sliding sash windows have no hinges. Instead, sash windows open with a sliding mechanism. Depending on how they’re built or where they are installed sash windows might slide upwards, downwards, or even side to side. Sliding sash windows are a great way to add charm and value to your property. They are often an original feature, one that gets buyers extremely excited. Sash windows can also be double or triple-glazed to make them energy efficient. Although when it comes to pure energy efficiency a casement window will usually come out on top. One of the best things about sash windows is the level of control you get when opening and closing the window. It is perfectly possible to have your window slightly ajar and lock into place. This allows a draft to come through whilst also keeping your home nice and safe.
So you’ve already taken the first steps to get some new windows installed in your home; you’ve made the decision. But choosing the right windows for your property really isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are a variety of different factors in play, from function and security to aesthetics and how it affects the value of your home. For some homeowners 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 fitting new windows and doors there’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 to buying new windows and doors are wood sash windows and wood 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 windows are by far and away the most popular – perhaps owing to the durability and pleasing aesthetic of timber. One of the things that make timber casement windows so popular is the ability to customize the timber with patterns, varnishes, and colors, 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 concerns 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 open on a hinge like their casement counterparts. They’re a natural choice for older properties and period homes and are 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!
If you’re having trouble deciding between a wood casement window or a sliding sash window for your property, remember you can get in touch with the experts to receive a FREE quotation. Do not forget to pay attention to the age of your property and the era it was built. If it’s a period home in order to maximise its value.