When you’re choosing a new window for your home, even before you can get into selecting different styles, you’ll need to figure out whether you want a picture window or a casement window for a particular space. Each type of window has specific advantages and disadvantages and can have a massive impact on how easy it is to ventilate the room or control energy savings. Before you commit to one or the other, it’s best to understand the benefits of each, which is why we’re going to walk you through the differences between picture and casement windows, and how to choose the one that’s right for your room.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are the easiest to begin with, simply because their name does a good job of explaining what they are. Picture windows are generally composed of a single pane of glass (although fancier models may have decorative pane dividers) that allows you to view the outside as though it were a picture in a frame. They’re commonly found in living rooms or other areas where a view is consistently desired. They allow a lot of light in, which can help you save on energy bills.
They are fixed in the wall, which means they cannot be opened or closed to provide ventilation. However, because it’s not supposed to move, it’s also well-sealed against outside weather and heat leakage.
Casement Windows
Unlike picture windows, which are completely fixed into the wall, casement windows will have hinges on the right or left that allow the window to be opened and shut as desired. They usually open with the help of a crank, but they may also have a latch, especially for kitchen windows or cottage windows. They’re easily the more versatile choice between casement and picture windows, but because they do open, they’re also more prone to leaking and may require more frequent repairs.
If you want to save energy on heating and cooling, casement windows are the easy choice to make for rooms that may need ventilation.
Which Window Do I Want For My Room?
The only rule you need to follow when choosing a specific style of window is to answer the following question: what is my goal for this window? Do you want the window to primarily function as a source of light for the room, or do you want ventilation? If your answer is yes to the first scenario, then picture windows will give you the look you want. If ventilation is the goal, casement windows will provide the airflow you want while still allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
Kempenfelt Windows & Doors: Your Source for Windows
No matter which kind of window you’re after, Kempenfelt Windows & Doors has a ready supply in a wide variety of styles, colours, and materials. Not set on the style of window you want? No problem – we’ve been voted Barrie’s favourite window and door company for 21 years in a row, and our staff has the experience necessary to help guide you to your ideal window.
If you’d like more information on picture or casement windows, give us a call at (705) 737-1554. You can also contact us online.
