Learn the differences between double-hung, casement, vs sliding windows to find the perfect fit for your space.
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Learning what type of window works for your home can seem complicated. Double-hung and casement windows are the leading priorities when shopping for Toronto home windows. That is why the battle between casement windows vs. sliding windows is always at its peak. Generally, whether you’re looking for a new or a replacement window, casement windows vs sliding windows vs double-hung windows are the right option. However, there are significant differences in the comparison of double-hung vs casement vs sliding windows.
If you get the difference and know the pros and cons of each variety, you will be in a better position to make the right choice next time searching for the ideal window type for your Toronto property.
Let’s start discussing the difference between double-hung vs casement vs sliding windows.
Contents
Let’s talk about casement vs double hung, starting with what makes a double hung window design unique from casement windows. We’ll also identify what makes one type of window better for your home.
This type of window is similar to a door because it swings outward. Casement windows typically have a crank on the frame under the glass to open and close the window. These cranks also lock the window when it’s closed. This type of window usually has one or more side hinges attached to the window frame. The design is perfect for increasing ventilation throughout your home, and it’s also easier to escape an emergency within the home through casement windows.
Double hung windows fit vertically in a window frame on the sides, also called window jambs. A double hung window opens and closes by sliding vertically on the jambs. A double hung window is similar to a sliding window, and homeowners like the affordability, simplicity, and easy operation of this type of window. Another great feature of double hung windows is the double sashes and panes built into the window jambs.
In comparison, double hung vs casement vs sliding windows, the aspect that stands out the most is that the sliding window sashes move from side to side and not outward, like in the case of casement windows.
One sash in the sliding window is movable, while the other is immobile. The sashes of sliding windows move horizontally instead of going up and down like the windowpane unit of hanging windows.
Many people ask: Are casement windows better than sliding windows? Casement windows vs sliding windows almost resemble each other because they offer better horizontal views and are suitable for areas with significant space.
All homeowners benefit from knowing the pros and cons of different types of windows, so please click on the link to read our blog on popular window styles. Reading the following table is also a great way to help make your decision that much easier!
Specifications | Double-hung windows | Casement windows | Sliding windows |
Structural difference | When the windowpane is open the sash remains flush with the wall. | Open and closing are possible using a lever, handle or crank. The movable sash swings outward. | A movable pane slides over a fixed sash as the window opens sideways. |
Ventilation | Offers the best air-infiltration rating with triple window seals and multiple bulb seals. | Can open completely. Therefore, allows a significant amount of air to enter the room. | Maximum ventilation is obtained by sliding the sash horizontally. |
Energy Saving | Less energy efficient, but you can buy other additions to make them more energy efficient. | More energy efficient because the seals are strong, don’t need a track to slide them open. | Less energy efficient as the seal is quite flexible to allow the opening and closure of the window. |
Safety | The latch is secure for the newer windows, but with time, they are more prone to breaking. | Crank and strong seal ensure optimal home security. | Most secure window types. |
Ideal Use | Use in rooms where cleaning the windows is difficult, especially from the outside. For example, the secondary story. | Best for kitchen and bathroom. | Install in areas that are challenging to reach. For example, behind the kitchen sink or above the soaking tub. |
Let’s describe and compare casement vs double hung window features so you can get a good idea of the type of window that’s best for your home:
How easy is a double hung window to operate versus casement windows? Knowing the practical details of different types of windows is a good factor in decision-making. Both panes of glass in double hung windows should have movable sashes that can slide up or down in the frame, which means you can open both panes of glass at the same time. This convenient feature allows homeowners to wash the exterior part of the glass from inside your home. It also creates a relatively good escape route if you need an emergency exit, although it’s easier to get through casement windows. The cranking mechanism on casement windows opens and closes the windows and also locks the window securely in place. You can also order casement windows with up to five or six sashes with panes of glass built into the window frame. While casement windows are built durable and look attractive, the side hinges on this type of window can get distorted in the frame after years of constant use or due to intense wind or weather events.
There is a difference in the soundproof quality between double hung and casement windows.
Because there is a broader frame on this type of window, it often creates better insulation and sealing to make your home quieter inside and keep outdoor noise from getting in. In addition, when you include double or triple-paned glass, it increases your soundproofing even more.
Because the operating mechanism is different on a double hung vs casement window, a double hung window may not be able to seal itself as effectively. Therefore, it may be less energy-efficient, and more unwanted outdoor noise may filter inside.
When you’re choosing a type of window, the design style is as important as the practical details like functionality. You want to know how the window design will affect your view. The versatility of a double hung window fits many home decor styles, but there’s one thing to keep in mind. A horizontal bar is built through the centre of double hung windows that may partially obstruct your view, although this often depends on where the window is located. There is no obstruction like a horizontal bar on casement windows, so you get a full view of the outdoors.
We recommend Magic Series double casement windows for their innovation, durability, and clean, functional appearance from inside and outside your home. The minimalist and modern design of Magic Series windows is exceptional in the industry, with a thin but exceptionally durable frame that allows for an increased glass surface. In addition, this type of window includes a retractable screen for an even better view and more natural light.
Because a double hung window isn’t sealed quite as tightly as casement windows, there can be a difference in the U-value of this type of window. So what does that mean? U-values determine how much energy will escape through your windows, and the sliding mechanism on a double hung window can affect its insulating values and increase U-values. The U-value may be improved on any type of window by incorporating double panes of glass and coating and glazing the glass to lower U-values. Triple glass panes are the best upgrade, but the construction of a double hung window isn’t designed for triple panes of glass.
The design of a double hung window shines when it comes to durability. Here’s how each type of window scores in the durability category:
Because casement windows crank open outwards, the entire window gets more exposure to all types of weather. It’s also essential to properly maintain a casement window by cleaning and lubricating the cranking mechanism.
You may find a double hung window is more durable because the sliding operation gets less exposure to weather.
Knowing where to place your windows is another important consideration. Open or closed, a double hung window takes up little space, and this type of window is your best option for tight spaces because it can fit anywhere. Because casement windows crank outwards, they may create a hazard on a deck, patio, or walkway.
Any modern type of window design will increase ventilation within your home, but there are significant differences in double hung vs casement windows.
With two window sashes, you can adjust how much you open double hung windows to get more airflow into your home.
The cranking mechanism on casement windows directs the most airflow into your home and offers the best ventilation.
Mechanical failures are the aspect that many people pay attention to. Double-hung windows are better than casement windows because they have a lower failure rate. Casement windows have many complicated mechanical parts that can easily go wrong.
The commonest mechanical issue with double-hung windows is where the lower sash can’t retain its upper (dropped window).
The crank of the casement window is the commonest mechanical unit that can easily fail you. Casement windows might not fail instantly, but they will slowly get loose, and within a short period, you will note that more air is seeping into your house to affect the energy efficiency.
Compared to double hung vs casement vs sliding windows, the first ones are better at evading mechanical failures, especially if the fitting between the frame and window sashes is correct.
If too much space is left, the gap on sliding windows makes the sashes wobble. In addition, excess air will also leak into the house to lower the window’s energy performance.
On the other hand, tight fitting of the sliding windows results in difficulty while closing or opening.
The double-hung window’s two sides and bottom edge fit tightly in the sidetracks. The top end is the only part that can allow some air, but still, the window has excellent seals to limit the seeping air.
Casement windows have energy performance superiority. Window sash of casement windows presses snugly onto the four sides of the frame and seals, like the exterior door fitting into the door frame. If you latch the casement window, even more, you will push the sash further into the seal to increase energy efficiency.
When it comes to the energy performance of sliding windows vs. casement windows, you will note that sliding windows tend to be less energy efficient.
Fortunately, if you employ proper sliding window maintenance, the severity of air leaks is tremendously reduced.
Double-hung windows have a classic traditional design. They are the perfect choices for vintage cottage homes or Toronto new houses that aim to get an older appearance.
The casement windows have a sophisticated design that is more pronounced by the clean lines and simple geometrics. They are the best when installed in modern-style houses.
Slider windows are available in three styles; three-pane slider, double slider, and single slider. Sliding windows are perfect for modern-style houses, especially rooms with low ceilings.
Double-hung windows are typically cheaper than casement windows. Remember that the stiff competition in the widow manufacturing sector controls the prices of double-hung windows.
Casement windows are the most expensive window variety in Toronto market today. They cost more than double-hung and sliding windows as they have a complex operation mechanism.
Replacement of a sliding window usually costs between $415 and $890 per single window unit. The price includes the total cost of labor and the materials used.
It should be no surprise that the most prevalent style of window in Canada is the double-hung window variety because of how ubiquitous they are. This type of window has sashes on both the upper and lower halves, and one can operate each sash independently to raise and lower the window and tilt it inward for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Suppose you live on the second floor of your home and find it more convenient to clean the window exteriors from the inside. In that case, modern double-hung replacement windows are an excellent choice if you are considering replacing the windows in your Toronto home.A vast selection of design options is available for double-hung windows, ranging from the more conventional to the more modern. The engineering and construction of our double-hung windows are innovative, allowing them to perform at their functional best.
Falcon Windows and Doors can provide its customers with a wide variety of options and modification solutions, which translates to a practically endless number of possibilities when customizing modern double-hung windows.
Your house would look decorated in any of these window styles: cottage, classic, traditional, replacement, or even triple-hung windows. These modern double-hung windows from Falcon WD are available in a wide variety of colors, hardware configurations, sizes, divided lite configurations, and radius top configurations, making them an excellent choice for views, ventilation, daylight, and performance.
In the Greater Toronto Area, Falcon Windows and Doors is the company to visit if you need answers to your questions or an estimate of the costs associated with upcoming projects.
Contact us today through our online form for free quotes on casement vs double-hung windows.
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