Casement Windows vs. Sliding Windows: What’s The Difference

October 4, 2019

Choosing a replacement window style for your home can be both enjoyable and a bit overwhelming. There are tons of options to choose from, and you want to make sure to select windows that you’ll be happy with for many years to come—not just in terms of how they look, but also in terms of how they operate. Below, we break down two very common window styles—casement windows and sliding windows—to help you decide which might be the best choice for your home.

Casement Windows

Operation

Casement windows are hinged along the side and open by swinging outward like a door. They are easier to operate than the lifting motion needed for traditional double-hung windows.

As far as operation goes, casement windows often feature a crank mechanism, which is convenient because it allows the windows to be opened with just one hand. Other casement windows don’t have cranks, but instead are opened by simply turning a handle and pushing the sash outward. Because the sash on a casement window pivots along a vertical axis and can be opened a full 90 degrees, you can position it to perfectly catch a breeze. This is convenient for ventilation and saving on electricity needed for air condition, fans, etc.

Styles & Customization

Casement windows are especially versatile when it comes to aesthetics. If adorned with muntins or grilles they look old-fashioned. However, sleek low-profile frames and unobtrusive handles can achieve a more modern look. Colors, decorative patterns, and material choices also add to the adaptability of casement windows.

Casement windows are often showcased on the front of houses, so this level of customization makes for an impressive look to match the rest of your home’s style.

Cost

Your average casement window will align in cost with a typical double-hung window, however, costs can increase based on materials and features. For example, a high-quality wood casement window may cost more than its vinyl counterpart. Cost will also vary based on brand or the professional contractor you’re working with on the project. Many window companies may also give you a good deal if you’re looking to install multiple windows at the same time.

Sliding Windows

Operation

Just as their name suggests, sliding windows feature sashes that slide horizontally, either to the left or right. Depending on model, one or both sashes will slide. Similar to their casement counterparts, sliding windows are easy to operate and require less effort to open that traditional hung-sash windows. This makes them particularly good for tight areas where it’s harder to get adequate leverage, such as above the kitchen sink or high up on the wall. Sliding windows also feature fewer moving parts than other types of windows, making them more durable.

Styles & Customization

Sliding windows are usually wider than they are tall. This makes them an adaptable fit to almost any room in a home. When it comes to style, sliding windows come in a variety of colors and materials, such as fiberglass and vinyl. You can also customize the handles, add muntins/grilles, or change the glass tint to match your home’s other windows.

Cost

Sliding windows are similar to casement windows in that their average cost is similar to that of a traditional double-hung window. Costs will vary based on the quality and materials used and the installation method you go with. For example, you may pay more if you have a professional install your new windows. On the flipside, professional installation companies may give you a good deal if installing multiple windows.

Expert Consultation to Help You Decide

If you’re deciding between casement and sliding windows, there are some core differences and similarities to consider. Casement windows swing outward, sliding windows slide horizontally. Casement windows are typically taller than they are wide with sliding windows being the opposite. Both have similar costs and a myriad of customization, material, and style options. It’s all about which factors match your needs.

If you’re looking for expert help putting in windows, West Shore Home specializes in both casement and sliding window installation. With competitive pricing, certified service experts, and a lifetime warranty, we pride ourselves on being one of the best options for your window project.