Choosing between casement and double-hung windows? Both are popular choices for Ottawa homes, but they work quite differently. The right choice depends on where the window is, how you'll use it, and what matters most to you.
Let's compare them honestly so you can decide.
How They Work
Casement Windows: - Hinged on one side like a door - Crank handle swings the window outward - Opens fully for maximum ventilation - Seals very tightly when closed
Double-Hung Windows: - Two sashes that slide up and down - Both sashes can typically open - Top and bottom can open simultaneously for airflow - Sashes tilt inward for cleaning
Both styles come in vinyl, fibreglass, and wood, and both are available with triple-pane glass.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Casement windows are generally more energy efficient:
Why casement wins: - Compression seal when closed (like a refrigerator door) - Single sash means fewer moving parts and potential leak points - Frame wraps around sash completely
Double-hung considerations: - Multiple sealing points where sashes meet - Sliding mechanism requires small gaps - Quality double-hung can still be quite efficient
Real-world difference: - Casement typically 5-10% better air sealing - Both can achieve excellent U-factor with quality glass - For most homes, the difference is modest
Where it matters most: Very exposed or windy locations benefit more from casement's tight seal.
Ventilation and Airflow
Different approaches to fresh air:
Casement advantages: - Opens 100% of window area - Can catch side breezes and direct them into the room - Great for catching prevailing winds
Double-hung advantages: - Can open top and bottom simultaneously - Creates natural convection (hot air out top, cool air in bottom) - Partial opening offers security while ventilating
Best applications: - Casement: bathrooms, kitchens (steam escapes well), anywhere you want maximum airflow - Double-hung: bedrooms (can sleep with window open), living areas, classic architecture
Practical Considerations
Day-to-day living with each style:
Casement considerations: - Protrudes into outdoor space when open (problem near walkways or patios) - Crank mechanism can wear out over time - Screen goes on inside (may be visible) - Can't open if there's something outside blocking it - Maximum window size limited by weight
Double-hung considerations: - Screen goes on outside (less visible) - Sashes stay within window frame - Tilt-in feature makes cleaning easy - Spring or balance mechanisms can need adjustment - Can be hard to open if painted shut
Cleaning: Double-hung typically easier — tilt sashes inward to clean outside glass from inside. Casement requires cleaning from outside (problematic on upper floors).
Aesthetics and Home Style
Which looks right for your home:
Casement works well with: - Modern and contemporary homes - Ranch-style homes - Situations where clean lines are desired - Wide openings where picture windows aren't practical
Double-hung suits: - Traditional and colonial homes - Victorian and Edwardian architecture - Heritage districts (often required) - Homes where matching existing windows matters
Mixed approach: Many homes use both — double-hung in visible front rooms for traditional look, casement in kitchens and bathrooms for function.
In Ottawa specifically: Heritage areas like the Glebe, Centretown, and New Edinburgh often require double-hung to maintain neighbourhood character.
The Bottom Line
Both casement and double-hung windows are excellent choices for Ottawa homes. Casement offers slightly better energy efficiency and maximum ventilation; double-hung provides classic looks, easier cleaning, and doesn't protrude outside.
The best approach? Often a mix of both, chosen room by room. Want help deciding? Get a free consultation and we'll recommend the best window styles for each room in your home.
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