Casement windows are stunning necessities for any home since they feature the best of aesthetics and function. They are quite charming with their completely see-through glass center that opens up outward left or right for times you need maximum ventilation.
If you’re considering updating your home’s windows and are considering this type for your replacement windows, this guide will give you the information you need about the common types of casement windows, cost factors, and other considerations.
Key takeaways
Casement windows vary from standard windows since they open outward and use a crank to close. However, they come with many window styles to fit your design preferences.
Size, the number of windows ordered, and the frame type are just a few factors that can affect the overall cost of your casement window. Other factors that are known to increase the project's expense are the window’s brand, special features, labor costs, and the required demolition needed for installation.
Single-pane casement windows are usually the least expensive type, costing around $200 to $400. The most expensive type of casement windows are usually triple-pane windows, which can cost $1,000 or more per window.
Casement windows are a great investment if you’re looking for easy ventilation and an energy-efficient window. However, these types of windows might not be suited for homes with obstructed views, or that need better security.
Overview of casement windows
Unlike standard windows that slide up, casement windows are hinged on the sides. Casement windows are popular for their ventilation because the entire glass swings out, unlike a double-hung window, which, when opened, only reveals half the opening. Also, since a casement window swings outward, it doesn't typically come with screens. On top of this feature, they’re also packed with energy efficiency features from their glass and tight seals. Like other windows, you can design casement windows to match your style preferences through color, shape, and other designs.
5 types of casement windows
Single casement window
Image source: Lowes
A single casement window is about the same size as a standard window and opens on the left or the right. They range from $221 to $401.
Pros
- + Sleek, modern designs
- + Easy to open
- + Provides excellent ventilation
Cons
- - Can be costly
- - Does not provide as much light as double/french casement windows
Double or French casement window
Image source: Marvin
Double casement windows are also known as French casement windows since they resemble French doors. These types of casement windows are placed side by side, with one window opening on the left and the other on the right, and typically cost $415 to $755.
Pros
- + Optimal ventilation and light
- + Beautiful aesthetics
Cons
- - Size can become an issue
- - More expensive per window
Picture window with casement flankers
Image source: Simonton
A picture window with casement flankers is a gorgeous arrangement of a center picture window with casement windows off to each side. The set-up will cost $540 to $980.
Pros
- + Stunning aesthetic
- + Lots of light
- + Ventilation from casement window
Cons
- - Not as secure as other windows
- - Can be costly
Top-hinged casement window
Top-hinged windows, also known as awning windows, operate like every other type of casement window, with their hinge being on the top of the window instead of on the side like single or double casement types. For top-hinged windows, you can expect to spend between $597 to $1,273 per window.
Pros
- + Natural light
- + Easy to open
- + Aesthetics
Cons
- - Opens upward instead of outward
- - Not as much ventilation
In-swing casement window
Image source: Marvin
In-swing casement windows open inwards instead of outwards and are primarily used for possible emergencies since they are placed at ground level. Each in-swing window averages around $400 to $700.
Pros
- + Easy to open
- + Great for emergencies
- + Energy efficient
Cons
- - Gets in the way of furnishings
- - Not as many options for window treatments
Casement window replacement: average costs
Casement window costs | |
National average cost | $765 |
Average cost range | $550–$1,000 |
Low-end cost | $300 |
High-end cost | $1,548 |
What affects the cost of casement windows?
There are several factors that affect the cost of new casement windows. Frame and glass material, size, and number of windows being installed are just to name a few. Other factors can include:
The brand
Special features
Labor and installation
Frame material
The frame of your casement window is an important feature to consider since it keeps your glass panes in place. There are a variety of frame types available for casement windows, and they come with customizable options like color and design. Check out the chart below for the standard window frame types and their average cost.
Casement Window Frame Material | Description | Average Cost (Window Only) |
Vinyl | Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl frames are a sturdy plastic material that’s more budget-friendly for your casement window project. Since they are more standardized, they come with less customizable features and can be a hassle to change in the future. | $486 - $884 |
Wood | Wood is an excellent material for casement windows since they are one of the better insulators than other frames, but it is prone to warping and rotting over time unless maintained with paint. | $851 - $1,548 |
Aluminum | Aluminum frames are strong and lightweight and also come with low maintenance needs and a modern appeal. However, their downside is their susceptibility to corrosion and poor insulation because they transfer heat and cold more than other materials. | $450 - $819 |
Fiberglass | Fiberglass is a very durable window frame type that can withstand water and heat better than other types. Their main downside is exclusivity which means you will have to go through a window dealer for this type, which comes with a higher expense. | $760 - $1,382 |
Steel | [Steel window frames come with exceptional strength and durability, plus better security, but they also come with maintenance requirements and a higher cost than options like vinyl or aluminum. | $751 - $1,366 |
Glass type
Like the window frame, glass materials have a major say in the cost outcome of your new casement windows. The glass is responsible for allowing light inside, filtering out heat for a boost in energy efficiency, and sturdiness from the amount of panes that come in your window. Below is a list of the standard window glass types you’ll find for casement windows and their average expense.
Casement window glass type | Description | Average cost (window only) |
Single-pane | Single-pane glass types are, as the name suggests: one sheet of glass. They can be beneficial with their lower expense since they use less materials while still being energy efficient, but the single glass pane will not be as soundproof as a double-pane glass and can be easily broken. | $198 - $360 |
Double-pane | Double-pane windows are like single-pane windows with an extra pane of glass. They’re more expensive for the extra pane. | $270 - $491 |
Reflective coating | Reflective coating is a coating that’s applied to one side of the glass that reflects sunlight, making your interiors cooler. Its main disadvantage is the lack of sunlight your home gets in the winter that could be used for heat. | $262 - $477 |
Low-E coating | Low-emissivity glass is a thin coating applied to your glass pane to make your window more energy efficient by filtering out heat and wavelengths from the light coming in. | $389 - $707 |
Spectrally selective coating | Spectrally selective coating is a cost-effective solution for boosting home efficiencies. It adds security as well as efficiency for most windows. However, some spectrally selective coatings can void your window warranty, and bad application can leave your glass looking bubbly. | $432 - $786 |
Argon gas | Used in double or triple-paned glass windows to improve energy efficiency. Its major downfall is that the gas can easily leak from the window if the seal that contains it is broken. | $442 - $786 |
Triple-pane | Three sheets of glass panes filled with air or gas to provide an extra layer of insulation. Their biggest con is their increased expense for the added materials and insulation. | $486 - $884 |
Krypton gas | Krypton gas window glass works the same as argon gas since it’s filled in between sheets of window panes. The biggest difference is krypton being less dense, which makes it a better insulator. | $618 - $1,125 |
Window size
After the frame and glass materials, the size of the window is factored in. Window size is a big factor in the overall price of each unit since the bigger the window is, the more material will need to be used, which results in higher costs.
Number of casement windows being installed
Once you’ve narrowed down your preference in style, size, and materials, you also have to factor in the quantity of your order. Since one casement window can reach close to $2,000, you’ll have to get comfortable with a project reaching $16,000 for 8 windows.
Brand
As with anything, the window brand you select will also affect the cost. Popular brands like Andersen or Pella will be more expensive than less well-known ones.
Special features
Like other windows, casement windows come with special features or customizable options that are an extra expense compared to standard versions. Some colors cost more than others, and opting for energy-efficient features will also increase the total. However, energy-efficient features can save you money on the back end with your energy bills, so it might be worth it to pay more upfront.
Labor and installation
You can attempt to install your casement windows DIY style, but it’s highly recommended that you allow a professional to do the job so each window is installed properly. Unfortunately, this will be an extra charge for their time, effort, and potential risk when installing windows on higher stories. You'll also be responsible for the cost of removing the old windows, disposing of them, and repairing any hidden damage that's uncovered in the process.
Are casement windows right for your home?
If you’re considering upgrading your current windows to casement windows, you might be wondering if it’s a wise choice and how well you’d like them once installed. To help sway your decision, here are some pros and cons to consider:
Ventilation: Casement windows are easy to open when you want to ventilate your house. They extended completely out or up to allow in all the fresh air you want.
Unobstructed views: Casement windows do not have center bars like other windows do (unless you go with a French design), so you won’t have anything blocking your view.
Energy efficiency: Though casement windows open to allow in fresh air, they’re constructed with energy efficient glass to keep energy bills down when they’re closed.
Customization: You can choose from a range of styles, shapes, and designs so that your casement window fits your style preferences.
Expense: Compared to other types of windows, casement windows are more expensive for their hardware, energy-efficient features, and installation since they’re typically custom-fit.
Security: Casement windows are made with a lock, but that doesn’t mean they’re the most secure. The hinges and crank can wear over time, making it easier to break into your home.
Size: Since casement windows are meant for ventilation and stunning views, they’re not suitable for large openings. If you have large windows now, it might not make sense to switch to casement windows.
Maintenance: Casement windows require more than the occasional wipe-down with glass cleaner. You will have to routinely clean, inspect, and lubricate the hinges and crank mechanism so it functions properly.
Casement windows: the bottom line
Casement windows are an excellent upgrade if you don’t mind the higher expense from the aesthetics and high-quality features like energy efficiency and customization. Overall, the biggest downside to casement windows seems to be their cost and maintenance needs since they operate with hinges and cranks that are prone to wear and tear from frequent use. But, if you don’t mind putting in a little work to keep your windows in pristine condition, you might find the charm of casement windows to be a beautiful addition to your home.
Frequently asked questions
A casement window is a window that’s hinged on the sides to extend out like a door instead of sliding upward like standard windows. Some casement windows are hinged on the top of the frame so the window can push out upward instead.
The biggest difference between casement and standard windows is how they are hinged. Casement windows have one hinge on a side, so their sash opens outward from the left or right, whereas standard windows need two sashes and allow their sash to slide upward vertically.
The main drawback of casement windows is their expense. Because of their beautiful aesthetic appeal, excellent ventilation, and energy-efficient seal, they cost more than a standard window. Casement windows are also usually custom-ordered, which adds to the overall expense.
Homeowners use casement windows for their ease of ventilation, which allows in fresh air and exceptional breezes. They’re also very energy efficient since they come with a tight seal and sometimes energy-efficient glass. They also provide homes with unobstructed views since their entire center glass is clear because they do not have a center bar.
Casement refers to windows with sashes that open like doors. The word originated in the late Middle English period to mean protective covering.