Windows serve as a way to blend the outdoors with the indoors in many unique ways but one of the brightest and wind catching types is the casement window.  Quite different from a double hung or sliding model, the casement swings out, away from the frame, bringing the largest amount of air circulation into your home, as possible.

Because the entire frame and window are allowed to open outward, the screen is placed on the interior section of the permanent frame.  The wind still flows freely to the inside but catches any flies or bugs that try to intrude into your space.

Many times, large sized windows are casement style to crank out as little or as much as possible instead of settling for a fixed window that is not able to be opened.  Fixed windows are fine if you never want the air from the outside to be brought in but most people enjoy the freedom in having this option.

The security of casement windows is a lot tougher than a double-hung because there are hook-shaped locks that are embedded into the frame, virtually burglar proof.  Even with these windows open, it would be difficult for an intruder to manipulate the arm that holds the window in place.

Casement windows can be hung almost anywhere as opposed to some types of windows that have to be placed in a particular area for balance and appearance.  It is not unusual to see a skylight with a casement window, doors with long, slender casement windows surrounding them or a small designer casement window in a bathroom.

Problems with casement windows can be with the interference of other casement windows.  You have to be very careful about placement so other similar windows do not bump into one another.  You might think that a renovator or a new construction contractor would take such details into consideration but they usually don't.

You may also want to take care in leaving casement windows open during a storm where they are heavily exposed to the elements of the weather.  This could shorten the life of the frame if left open regularly.  The sun can also damage the frame to a certain extent when left unattended for long periods of time.

 Many contractors do not like casement windows because of the cranking handle.  To them, this is just one more thing that can break that they will be called to replace.  This is a downside to casement windows because they are mechanical and parts do wear out and break.  But overall, if you enjoy the breeze of a bright spring day and the ability to control the air that flows inside of your home, you can't beat casement windows.