You can install casement windows as an alternative to single-hung or double-hung windows.

While sliding windows — such as double- and single-hung varieties — are common, they’re not your only choice for window replacement. Another popular option is the modern-style casement window.

Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward to the left or right via an interior crank handle. Unlike other window types, casement styles don’t have a center rail and open fully for an unobstructed view and ventilation.

Man displaying a window damaged by wet rot in the wooden frame before replacing it in preparation for the coming winter closeup of his hand over white

Window replacement ranges from $734 to $1,806 per window, depending on the window style, frame material, size and labor costs.

According to our October 2023 window replacement cost survey of 1,500 homeowners who had bought windows within the last five years, 17% of respondents chose casement windows as part of their project.

What are the pros of casement windows?

Among other advantages, casement windows offer excellent energy efficiency and a sleek contemporary style.

Energy efficiency

Casement windows are one of the most energy-efficient window options, making them an excellent choice if you’re trying to reduce heating and cooling bills. When a casement window is shut, the sash presses up against the window frame, creating a tight seal on all four sides that prevents air leaks.

Operability

Rather than sliding up or down a track, casement windows are operable via a hand crack at the window’s bottom. This crank makes these windows easier to open when compared to a double- or single-hung window — especially in hard-to-reach areas, such as over the kitchen sink or up high on a basement wall.

The hand crank may also be easier to operate than sliding windows for those with mobility issues.

Ventilation

Casement-style windows can open fully perpendicular to a home at a 90-degree angle, allowing for maximum ventilation and fresh air. They have interior screens, so you won’t have to worry about bugs getting in as you air out your home.

What are the cons of casement windows?

“Casement windows have many benefits, but they do come with some drawbacks,” said Tyler James Hull, a professional roofer and home exterior contractor at Modern Exterior in Waukesha, Wisconsin. They won’t suit every home — especially households that utilize window air conditioner units or are close to obstructions such as other buildings, trees or bushes.

Difficult to clean

Casement windows have interior insect screens that you can remove to clean the inside of the window. However, because these windows don’t have the tilt-in feature that many modern double-hung varieties do, it’s harder to clean their exterior glass.

Require unobstructed outside space

The way casement windows open can limit their use. “Since they open outward, they can be blocked by objects on the outside of your home, such as trees or bushes, and could be less than ideal if they are located near walkways or patios,” Hull said.

Keep safety in mind when choosing locations for your casement windows; they shouldn’t be blocking anyone’s pathway while open.

Won’t accommodate most window AC units

If you rely on window air conditioners to keep your home cool, casement windows may not accommodate your needs. While you can purchase specialized air conditioning units for casement windows, single-hung and double-hung windows are best for keeping standard window AC units secure.

What are the types of casement windows?

Casement windows come in different materials and sizes to suit various needs. While their sleek lines and unobstructed sashes give them a contemporary look, you can choose from many styles and customization options.

Styles

Outswing casement windows are the most common style. They feature a single-sash window that’s hinged on the side and opens outward with a hand crank.

Other types of casement windows

French casement windows: Also known as double casement windows, these feature two sashes that open from the center via a hand crank.
Push-out casement windows: These don’t have a hand crank, but they feature a handle you turn and gently push to open the window. They’re available in single-sash or French casement varieties.
In-swing casement windows: These open inward. They are customary in places where outward-swinging casement windows would be hazardous, such as over flower boxes, walkways or other exterior obstructions.

You can also customize casement windows with window grids and grills, as well as choose from a range of interior and exterior colors, depending on the manufacturer’s offerings.

Materials

Casement windows are available in a variety of frame materials, including the following:

Vinyl: This material is virtually maintenance-free, widely available and cost-effective. It can also last 20 to 40 years, according to the Internal Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Wood: This material is prized for its natural look, customizable interior color and insulative benefits, but it’s expensive and requires ongoing maintenance.
Fiberglass: This material is easy to care for and weather-resistant. It can also mimic the look of wood.
Aluminum: This material is lightweight and durable but may lack insulative benefits.
Composite: This features a blend of materials that mimic vinyl’s low maintenance and wood’s strength.

How much do casement windows cost?

The average price of vinyl casement windows can range from $1,000 to $1,900, according to a Home Depot report that accounts for permits, installation labor and estimated tax. Wood casement windows can cost up to $3,800.

“Casement windows tend to be more expensive than single-hung windows as they have a more complex operating system,” Hull said.

Vinyl casement windows that measure 23.5 inches by 35.5 inches start at $297 at Home Depot. At Lowe’s, they start at $363. Note that these prices are only for the products themselves and don’t include factors such as labor and permits.

Specialty options, high-performance windows and bigger sizes will cost substantially more than cheap replacement windows.

Where should you install casement windows?

When you’re ready for window replacement, casement windows can take the place of your standard single- or double-hung windows as long as there are no outside obstructions that would block them from opening.

They can be used almost anywhere in the house but are especially useful where maximum ventilation is desired, such as in kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces and bedrooms. Casement windows can also flank a bay window or picture window to allow for ventilation.

What are some casement window alternatives?

Casement windows are a great choice for a contemporary style and maximum airflow, but there are several alternatives, according to Hull.

“Another option is sliding windows, which provide a wide view and have an easy operation, especially for larger openings,” Hull added. “If you like the idea of outward-opening windows but don’t want to sacrifice ventilation even in the rain, awning windows might be a good option for you.”

You can also consider single-hung windows — one of the most cost-effective types. They feature two sashes, but the top one is fixed. The bottom opens by sliding up and down a track.

What’s next?

If you’ve determined that casement windows are right for your home, the next step is to explore frame materials and glass options. Then, get quotes from the best window brands. Once you have a few quotes and each company’s warranty information, you can make an informed decision regarding your new construction or replacement windows.

Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.

Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Katie Barton is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. In addition to covering home improvement topics such as windows and roofing, she has extensive experience testing and reporting on the best home-related products, from vacuums to garden hose reels. Her work has been featured in publications such as Bob Vila and Cabin Life. In her free time, you’ll find her tackling a DIY project or shuttling her kids back and forth from afterschool activities. She lives in southern Ohio with her husband and three daughters.

Erika Skorstad is a senior editor for USA TODAY Homefront. She covers topics ranging from home warranties to lawn care. Previously, Erika edited content about venture capital, marketing and cloud computing. She has a BS in professional writing with a minor in interactive narrative. Her fiction has been published in Marathon Literary Review, Levitate Literary Magazine and the Burlington Writers Workshop Cold Lake Anthology. Outside of work, Erika enjoys reading psychological thrillers, doing yoga, going on nature walks and spending time with her sassy black cat, Cassie. She lives in Washington.

Home

What Are Casement Windows?