Casement Window FAQ’s

The Most Popular Double Glazing Window Explained

Casement Window FAQ’s Answered by Polar Bear Windows of Bristol and Bath.

Casement windows are the most commonly fitted double glazing window, but what is a casement window? What are the benefits of a casement window? Are there any disadvantages of with a casement window? Polar Bear Windows voted best window and door company in Bristol for customer service, explains all.

What is a casement window?

A casement window is a window attached to its frame by one or more hinges at the side allowing it to open. They can be single or paired windows fitted within one frame and they are hinged on the outside. Casement windows come in uPVC or Aluminium and are often held open using a casement stay.

Casement windows that are hinged at the top are known as awning windows (or top opening casement), and if they are hinged at the bottom they are referred to as hopper windows (or bottom opening casement).

What is the most common type of window?

There are lots of different types of windows you can choose from and a professional and reputable supplier will ensure you get the right window for your property. uPVC casement windows are the most popular choice due to their benefits, flexibility and cost.

Casement Windows

Single Hung / Double Hung Windows

Awning Windows

Hopper Windows

Arched Windows

Bay & Bow Windows

Garden Windows

Glass Block Windows

Transom Windows

Jalousie Windows

Picture Windows

Egress Windows

Round Circle Windows

Skylight Windows

Sliding Windows

Storm Windows

Transom Windows

Custom Built Windows

Why is a casement window different?

Casement windows are the most energy efficient opening window because the window frame presses against the outer frame and creates an airtight seal keeping the cold air out and the warm air in. Fixed pane windows are the most energy efficient as there are no seals, however, casement windows are better than most other styles. For example; a sliding windows seal needs to be flexible to allow the window to slide open and close and because of this, it isn’t as energy efficient as a casement window. 

Are casement windows better?

All new double glazed windows will be better than any older style uPVC or Aluminium windows and give you better energy efficiency if they are from a reputable supplier and fitted well. Casement windows are one of the most energy efficient and cost-effective windows on the market and they will also transform the look and feel of your home or business.

Is a casement windows better than a sliding window?

Finding the right windows style for you is dependent on your needs, if you live in a conservation area or have site management which requires you to have certain windows, casement and awning windows are more energy efficient compared to a sliding window.

What is the difference between an awning and casement window?

Awning windows are made for window openings when the width of the window is greater than the height. Awning and casement windows fully open outward and they offer maximum ventilation, natural light.

What is a fixed casement window?

A fixed casement window can’t be opened like a standard casement window. A fixed casement window allows the natural light to enter a room when you wouldn’t ever want to open a window. They are often used for rooms where you have an amazing view and you want just one large pane of glass giving your room a stunning look as well as being able to enjoy the view from wherever you are in the room.

What is a French casement Window?

A French casement window offers a clear opening without a mullion divide. A mullion is a vertical element that forms a division between the units of a window or screen, or is used decoratively. A French casement window opens like French doors with two openings, creating a large opening without any obstruction of the view.

Are slider windows good?

A slider window offers a wide and open unobstructed view to the outside and they are used when the width of a window is greater than their height. They provide the maximum amount of daylight to enter a room and are great for openings into a garden, as the doors slide back against the outside walls rather than opening and causing an obstruction. Slider windows are better for bigger openings compared to casement windows although they aren’t as energy efficient and as easy to maintain. 

What is an awning type window?

Awning windows are one paned windows which are hinged at the top or bottom and open outward. Awning windows don’t open completely and are only good for allowing slight ventilation and protection from the rain.

Are casement windows safe?

Casement windows are very safe and one of the safest on the market for windows that open. They are extremely difficult to break into from the outside due to the multi-point locking system which should be “Secured By Design“, which is a standard recognised by Avon and Somerset Police Constabulary.

What is a sash window and are they more expensive than casement windows?

A sash window or hung sash window is made as one or more movable panels (sashes). The sashes slide over the other which creates the opening of the window. The sliding of the sash is normally vertical; however, some sash windows open horizontally. It is possible to break into a sash window from the outside, unlike casement windows.

Casement windows tend to be cheaper than sash windows and are the most common window style used in homes and businesses across the UK.

What are the benefits of a casement window?

Casement windows offer many benefits compared to other styles of windows:

Casement windows can come in many designs, colour, finishes, sizes, and materials

Casement windows will work well when combined as part of a larger window installation, such as in bay, bow, or French windows

Casement windows are one of the most energy and thermally efficient windows due to their weather-resistant seals which keep out draughts. Their multi-chamber profiles without steel reinforcements improve insulation compared to other windows

Casement windows are an excellent way to ventilate a room or area due to their side opening and optional trickle ventilation opening

They offer a big opening variant

Casement windows offer an unobstructed view as the window pane can be made up as one sash

New casement windows are extremely secure and almost impossible to break into from the outside. They have multi-point locking systems for maximum security and peace of mind

They offer rollers for smooth day-to-day operation and engaging deadbolts and locks for added security

They have safety friction hinges, child safe hinges, fire escape hinges and easy cleaning hinges

They offer excellent noise reduction

They can be manufactured with privacy glass if needed

Casement windows will transform the look and feel of your home or business

How long does a double-glazed casement window last?

Casement windows will last anything from 15 years upwards if they are looked after, well maintained and have been supplied and fitted by a professional window company.

Is a casement window energy efficient?

Casement windows are one of the most energy efficient windows on the market. Their seal provides sound thermal efficiency and if they are supplied and fitted by a professional window expert they will last you decades.

Will casement windows reduce my energy bills?

Compared to older style windows, casement windows will reduce your energy bills as they keep the cold air out and the warm air in and are normally ‘a’ rated for energy.

Should I replace all my windows at once?

Normally, the more new windows you have installed at the same time the less each window will cost you, however, this will depend on your supplier. Shop around and get several quotes and ask them if this is something they do.

For example, if we send one of our teams to fit 15 windows or 10 windows the fitting costs to us are very similar, and the fitting cost per window is less for you. If we send our team to fit 3 windows, the fitting cost per window is higher.

To help our customers, at Polar Bear Windows, we offer 0% finance so they have the option to affordably have as many windows fitted as they choose, at the best price per window.

How do I know when my windows need replacing?

Draughts coming through the windows even when they are closed

The windows are not opening and closing with ease

The windows aren’t locking with ease

Mould building up around the seals and openings

Condensation between the panes of glass

Condensation on the inside

The noise from outside is increasing

Cracked window frames

You will know when it’s time to replace your windows by any, or some of the above signs. You may feel it is a project you don’t want to undertake due to the mess and cost, however, you may be surprised with how much it does cost and how little mess is made by professional window companies. 

Can you break into a casement window?

Casement windows are designed with special, hook-shaped locks that insert directly into the frame so they are very difficult to break into from the outside. A lot of intruders will pry windows open, however, this is very difficult with a casement window and the security they offer from their multi-locking systems is second to none.

Casement windows demo video highlights

Fire safety built into every Polar Bear Window installation (0 mins 43 secs)

Security features of Polar Bear Windows explained (3 mins 15 secs)

Breaking into a casement window – challenge 1 (4 mins 18 secs)

Breaking into a casement window – challenge 2 (5 mins 48 secs)

Why would you have a casement window?

They come in many designs, sizes, and materials to suit your property

They work well when combined as part of a larger window installation, such as in bay, bow, or French windows

They are one of the most energy and thermally efficient windows due to their weather resistant seals which keep out draughts. Their multi-chamber profiles without steel reinforcements improve insulation compared to other windows

They offer excellent ventilation due to their side opening and optional trickle ventilation opening

They offer a big opening variant

They offer an unobstructed view as the window pane is made up as one sash

They are extremely secure and almost impossible to break into from the outside

They have multi-point locking systems for maximum security and peace of mind

They offer rollers for smooth day-to-day operation and engaging deadbolts and locks for added security

They have safety friction hinges, child safe hinges, fire escape hinges and easy cleaning hinges

They offer excellent noise reduction

They can be manufactured with privacy glass if needed

They will transform the look and feel of your home or business

When should you have casement windows?

You should consider casement windows if your current windows need replacing as they are secure, energy efficient and not as expensive as some other types of windows. They can be designed to your specification and a professional window company will work with you to achieve the look you want.

How much are casement windows?

Casement windows will range in price and will be dependent on the quality of window, size and how many you’re are installing. Always get a couple of no-obligation quotes and look to see the difference in cost, service and benefits of the windows. You should expect a minimum of a 10-year guarantee on your new windows and good window companies will offer you support with the design, deals on free fitting and a security pledge.

How long does a casement window take to install?

Casement windows can be installed quickly and efficiently by professional window companies, they will leave little mess and if you are replacing a lot of windows they will have several installers there to get the job done quickly. On average one window will take 1-2 hours to fit and a whole house a day or a day and a half, depending on its size and the number of windows. 

Where would you have casement windows?

Casement windows are really versatile and can be used for any window in a residential or business property. You can design casement windows to your specification and a professional window company will help you with this process.

Does a casement window make a room warmer?

Yes, a good casement window will offer you ‘A’ rated energy efficiency and 1.0 u-value so will make a room look better and feel warmer. They keep the cold air and draughts out and the warm air in.

Can a casement window be fitted in an existing frame?

It isn’t normal to fit a new casement window into an existing frame as the frame comes as a set with the sash pane and contributes to the benefits a new casement window gives you.

What should you look for in a window company?

A good, professional looking website that gives you the opportunity to design your new windows

Excellent customer reviews on their website and using an internet search

Free no obligation home or business appointments

Free design service

They will be able to confidently talk about their product range and the benefits and disadvantages of each one

Their windows will be ‘A’ rated for energy efficiency

They will offer you a free no obligation quote

They will offer you free fitting options for your new windows

Their installation will be carried out by fully trained specialists who will install your new windows quickly and efficiently

They will provide you with keys for your new windows and be able to provide with more if you need them

Their windows will be guaranteed for a minimum of 10 years

They will offer you a minimum of a 10-year security pledge which means they will replace a damaged door which has been forced open by an intruder

They will tell you how to maintain your new windows to prevent any issues, giving you peace of mind that your home and business is secure 24 hours a day 365 days a year 

Why choose Polar Bear Windows of Bristol, Bath & surrounding areas?

We have over 30-years’ experience in the door and window industry and have been voted the best in Bristol for customer satisfaction based on our customer’s reviews

We have achieved this by providing award-winning service, quality assured products and money-saving deals to all our customers

Our ethos is to improve our customers living standards by delivering great products and providing amazing customer service

Every one of our team is committed to our customer-focused delivery and is proud of our exceptional products

We offer free, no obligation home or business visits with one of our expert designers

We offer a wide range of windows, doors and conservatories to suit your style and budget and will work with you to design the perfect one

We offer a free fitting service for many of our installations

We specialise in casement windows, double glazed and triple glazed windows (uPVC and aluminium), bi-fold doors, composite doors and conservatories and we use industry-leading products to bring you the best

We offer free no-obligation quotes and we will beat any like for like quote to ensure you get the best deal

We offer a 0% finance option with a small deposit payable

Polar Bear Windows casement windows

Our casement windows are extremely versatile with many benefits compared to other window manufacturers and types of windows which has made it the most popular replacement style window in the UK.

Our double-glazed uPVC casement windows have amazing benefits and performance:

• 9 multi-point locking system for maximum security and peace of mind
• 2 rollers for smooth day-to-day operation, with engaging deadbolts and locks for added security
• Weather resistant seals to keep out draughts with optional trickle ventilation available
• Multi-chamber profiles without steel reinforcements to improve insulation
• Exceeds PAS24 security tests and all other British quality standards
• Safety friction hinges. Child safe hinges. Fire escape hinges. Easy clean hinges.
• Handles are endurance tested to over 50,000 cycles for absolute security, this incredible window lock system also benefits from high corrosion resistance, even in the most extreme conditions.
• Shootbolt espagnolette is security tested (PAS24-2012) and endurance tested (Grade 5) and Corrosion resistance (Class 5)
• Thermal break glass filled with argon and treated surface (soft-coat) ensures the highest thermal rating and noise reduction possible resulting in A+ energy rating efficiency
• FREE FITTING on casement windows
• 10-year guarantee on product and installation
• 10-year security pledge

Our casement windows can feature fixed panes, top opening fanlights and side opening lights, all of which can be combined to create an almost limitless range of styles, whilst providing the added benefit of noise reduction, virtually maintenance free, safety, security and energy efficiency.

Privacy glass options are available.

Our casement windows come as uPVC is as standard but aluminium windows are also available.

All our windows are made to measure and installed professionally by our trained installers to ensure your windows seamlessly integrate with your home.

Our uPVC windows are rated A+ for energy efficiency as standard.

Our uPVC windows exceed the requirements of the Secure by Design Licence, the official Police initiative backed by the Home Office Crime Prevention Unit. All our uPVC windows also come with a 10-year security pledge which means if there is a forced entry gained through the multi-point locking system on a window we will replace the damaged window free of charge. This is how confident we are in our products

You can create your casement windows in 3 easy steps here.

If you are considering replacing your windows and would like any information on any of our casement windows, windows, doors and conservatories please contact us on 0117 327 0127 and one of our experts will be able to answer any questions you may have.