Choosing the right style of window for your home can be challenging, especially if you don’t options exist. Casement and picture windows are two popular options that create a classic look. These windows turn any house into a home. While there are multiple advantages to each window style, there are some drawbacks to each that should be addressed.

 Casement Windows

This style has a frame with a fixed window on one side connected with hinges. It’s the classic style that has a crank to allow the window to open. There are many pros to this style, including ventilation, energy efficiency, and they are easy to wash. These windows open outward, which allows the fresh air to come in more easily than other windows. Casement windows are made up of secure weatherstrips along the creases. When the window is closed and securely locked, the weather strips block air from entering and exiting the home. That means it can save you money. Another pro is that casement windows are easy to wash. When the window is open, the hinges pull the window away from the house, allowing enough room for it to be thoroughly cleaned while still standing inside the home.

With all these pros, there are a few cons to owning a casement window. First, this window style can be easier to break into, are more expensive, and the sizes tend to be limited. Second, it is crucial that homeowners periodically check the hinges on their casement windows. When these types of windows get old, the hinges and locking hardware can become faulty. If they become defective, a burglar could use that to their advantage when entering your home uninvited. So be sure to check your windows now and then to ensure they are still working as they should. Third, this style of window can be expensive, but that is difficult to avoid. If a homeowner is looking for a good quality window that will last, it’s a must to spend a fair amount. Finally, there are limitations to the sizes that these windows are offered. Even with the best quality hardware or construction, there is a weight and size maximum that can’t be ignored.

Picture Windows

A second style that is very popular today, is picture windows. This style of window is inoperable with typically one solid pane of glass. Homeowners tend to prefer this style for an unobstructed or broad view of nature. The pros that come with this style of window include an excess of natural light, insulated and weatherproof, low maintenance, and a lower cost. Due to the simple design and structure of picture windows, they can be made in large sizes. If a larger size is installed, more natural light can enter the space. The insulation on this style of window is unmatched by its competitors. Since picture windows don’t open, when installed, they are sealed tightly to protect the house from air and water leaks. Another significant benefit to owning this type of window is the low maintenance. Picture windows don’t have hardware for any moving parts; so, it’s difficult for the window to break. The last pro is the low cost. There are no mechanical parts that need to be factored into the cost of this window style; therefore, the price tends to be on the lower side.

The cons of picture windows include ventilation, excess heat, and maintenance. Ventilation is a con due to the window being a solid pane; fresh air cannot come in. Another con is the extra heat that can be gained from this style of window. The fact that this kind of window lets in a lot of light naturally gains solar heat. While maintenance was a pro for the hardware on this window style, it is also a con. Cleaning these windows can be hard on the outside if installed on the upper level of the house. There can also be dirt and pollen stuck in the windowsills.

There are both pros and cons to different window styles. It all depends on what kind of character the homeowner wants to establish using windows. Many houses integrate both casement and picture windows to create the perfect balance between ventilation and natural light. If you would like to hear more about how a window can dramatically improve a home, call New Look Roof at (502)341-4415 for a free consultation or go to our website to learn more.

New Look Roof specializes in roofing, siding, windows, gutters, and repairs. We serve the greater Louisville area and pride ourselves on being industry-leading in materials, education, training, and craftsmanship. With over three generations in the roofing industry, you can bet that your experience at New Look Roof will exceed your expectations. We invite all potential clients to fill out a form online or call us directly at 502.341.4415!