There are a few notable differences between casement windows and double-hung windows.

Designed Differently

A double-hung window is comprised of two pieces — an upper sash and a lower sash. Both of these sashes slide up and down inside the window frame, giving you the option of having the top or bottom open at any given time.

Opening & Closing

Double-hung windows have an operable upper and lower sash, each sliding up or down, one over the other.

A casement window opens and closes like swinging an open door. It utilizes a hinge on the side and generally incorporates a cranking mechanism to open/close and a lever lock to seal the window shut.

Screens

A double-hung window screen sits on the outside of the window. It can be a half or full-size screen. It covers the exterior, which changes the look and feel on the outside while also lessening the visible light that enters your home.

Meanwhile, the screen on casement windows sits on the interior of the window frame. It covers the large opening, hides the window's sash, and also lessens the visible light that enters the home.

Pros of Double-Hung Windows

A benefit of double-hung windows is that the upper sash and lower sash can be opened independently of the other. If you have small children or pets, you can slide the lower sash up - protecting the lower part of the screen from claws and small hands. Or vice versa, if you are concerned about safety around an opened lower sash.

In situations where you have shades or blinds, you might consider a double-hung window, because it does not have a crank that sticks out and could get caught during operation.

Double-hung windows are easy to open because of their spring-loaded balance feature that helps in lifting the window.

Double-hung windows are also the preferred choice over casement windows in areas of high foot traffic on the exterior (like a deck) or near outdoor shrubbery because they don't swing outward.

In terms of durability, double-hung windows are typically more durable because both sashes are secure in a frame. This is ideal if you live in a wet climate.

Because there a fewer mechanical parts to a double-hung window, the failure rate is lower than that of casement windows.

Cons of Double-Hung Windows

A double-hung window has a check rail where the upper and lower sashes meet, typically in the middle of the frame. This can obstruct your view and can also cut down on all that natural light that you'd love to have in your home.

As much air ventilation as you'd like to have, a double-hung window can only open 1/2 of the total opening, because the upper and lower sash slide over each other.

If the window is over a sink or counter, it may be difficult for someone to reach over and lift a double-hung sash.

Pros of Casement Windows

Casement windows are conveniently easy to open and close. Turning the crank takes less effort than pushing on a sash.

You can have a beautifully unobstructed view with a casement window because it does not have any railings in the middle.

If you want a fully opened window, you can achieve that with casement windows because the entire sash cranks outward. Additionally, the sash can catch the outdoor wind and redirect it into your home.

If your window sits over a counter or a sink, the easily accessible crank of a casement window will make it easier to open in hard-to-reach situations.

Casement windows virtually eliminate drafts because they are sealed on all four sides. Expect a decrease in utility costs, as they do a superior job of keeping unwanted air out of your home.

Cons of Casement Windows

Casement cranks can cause shades or blinds to sit improperly against the window and can sometimes get snagged.

If your casement window is placed in a deck area, it could swing out and impede exterior foot traffic. Similarly, things could get hazardous or inconvenient if there are bushes, a seating area, or a walking path outside the window.

In terms of durability, casement windows are more exposed to outdoor elements because they open outwards, which can cause them to degrade at a faster rate than double-hung windows.

The crank unit is typically the first mechanical part to fail. Moreover, casement windows can slowly loosen over time, meaning more air can seep into your house eventually.

How To Decide Between Casement and Double-Hung

Choosing between a double-hung window and a casement window for your home depends on many factors. Each type of window has its own benefits and disadvantages.

You may want to consider double-hung windows if you:

• - enjoy the flexibility of an upper or lower sash being opened
• - have shades or blinds
• - prefer an easy-to-open, spring-loaded balance mechanism
• - are placing the window next to an outdoor walking or sitting area
• - are looking for a low-maintenance, durable option

On the other hand, casement windows might be the ideal choice for you if you:

• - want to open and close a window with a crank
• - enjoy a wide-open, unobstructed view with no railings
• - want to catch outdoor wind and redirect it into your home
• - need a window that's easy to open over a sink or counter
• - are looking for a window that fully seals to keep outside air out and save on energy costs
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