All about casement windows | Portes et Fenêtres Verdun

Casement windows, also known as crank windows, have become one of the most popular choices for homes and commercial buildings in recent years. They’re easy to use, and they offer excellent ventilation. The casement windows available at Portes et Fenêtres Verdun come in a variety of styles, colors and materials. In this article, you’ll find out whether this type of window is suitable for your needs.

How casement windows work

Casement windows are attached to a frame and held in place by hinges. When you turn the crank, the window opens outward by pivoting on these hinges on a vertical axis.

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The mechanism is simple: you open and close the window with a crank, while a latch activates the window lock, and multiple anchorage points ensure optimal weathertightness. The wider the surface of the window, the sturdier the crank mechanism must be in order to keep the window open during strong winds, thus preventing premature wear and tear. Casement windows are also very durable and energy efficient.

Casement windows: an advantageous design

By virtue of its design, a casement window is highly resistant to leaks and drafts, ensuring a perfect weathertight seal when closed. The weather-stripping is flatter, providing optimal protection on windy days. When a casement window is open, it offers maximum air intake and increased ventilation, as the pane completely detaches from the frame. This position also makes the window easy to clean, as you can perform maintenance on it from inside the home.

Casement windows

A vast range of options for personalizing casement windows

Casement windows have a lot going for them. Modern and versatile, they can take the form of a sash window to accommodate several different styles of homes. You can also combine them with a fixed window for a more contemporary look. You can order them with frosted glass, decorate them with window grilles or have the frames painted in a variety of different colors, including white, black, charcoal and commercial brown. Available in PVC, wood, aluminum-covered wood or an aluminum-PVC hybrid, they are also an easy-to-use low-maintenance option for use in the restoration of older buildings, as their appearance and style are highly customizable.

Crank windows can reach a maximum height of approximately 72 inches. In terms of width, the maximum pane size is 36 inches. However, at these dimensions, it’s imperative to use reinforced hardware. It’s also possible to add a fanlight, which is a fixed window situated above the crank window.

Is it possible to install screens on casement windows?

Yes, you can indeed install a screen on a casement window. In fact, experts strongly recommend installing one in order to allow maximum air circulation while preventing insects from entering the home. That’s why we include a fiberglass screen in an aluminum frame with the purchase of most of the casement windows we sell at Portes et Fenêtres Verdun.

Casement window maintenance

Casement windows require very little maintenance; however, it’s important to clean them regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. Here are a few maintenance tips:

Clean the windows using water and a gentle cleanser.
Use a soft brush to remove the dirt and debris trapped in the corners.
Oil the hinges to prevent them from rusting.
Check the gaskets to make sure they’re in good condition.

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The benefits of casement windows

Casement windows offer numerous advantages, including the following:

Excellent ventilation: casement windows permit maximum air circulation, especially thanks to the fact that they direct the air toward the inside of the home.
Energy conservation: casement windows are particularly airtight, as the wind compresses the weather-stripping, making the windows very energy efficient.
Ease of use: casement windows are easy to use and don’t cause any friction.
Ease of maintenance: casement windows are very practical, as you can clean them from inside the home.
Safety and security: it’s possible to lock casement windows closed.
Durability: we offer a 25-year limited warranty on most of the casement windows we sell at Portes et Fenêtres Verdun.

Would you like to replace your current windows with casement windows? The sheer number of models available on the market can seem overwhelming. Considering that every project is unique, we’re pleased to offer you a variety of different options in casement windows at Portes et Fenêtres Verdun. Contact us for a free estimate, and please don’t hesitate to come and visit us in one of our locations to get personalized advice based on your needs.

Casement window