Both crank windows (casement) and sliding windows are highly recommended. However, you need to consider the pros and cons of each before choosing the best window style for your home. In this article, we will clear up any questions you might have before deciding on which new home windows to buy.
Crank Windows vs Sliding Windows for Your Home
Physical Differences
Sliding windows are typically installed in wide openings as the windows are wider than they are tall. They slide open sideways, with one pane gliding over the other.
Casement windows, also known as crank windows, are frequently chosen for tall, narrow window openings. The window is attached to the side of the window casing and opens outward. These types of windows open with a crank handle or lever.
Window Ventilation
Based on how each type of window is built, the air will flow through in different ways. Most casement windows open completely, so air can pass through the whole opening. However, with most sliding windows, half the window space is overlapping. As a result, the windows offer less ventilation.
Certain sliding windows, however, are built to allow both panes to be opened at the same time, allowing for maximum ventilation from this type of window. Your window installer should be able to advise you on this type of sliding window.
Energy Efficiency
Both sliding and crank windows are energy efficient, but there is still a difference between the two window types. With sliding windows, the seal must be flexible for you to be able to open and close the window. Unlike sliding windows, the crank/casement window seal is not flexible. Although both are energy efficient, crank windows are more so, since they are not flexible by design.
Cost – which type of window is cheaper?
Sliding windows are typically cheaper than crank windows. They are also easier to operate. With sliding windows, you can choose just how much you want to leave them open. This will give you a certain amount of control over your home’s airflow. Everything considered, sliding windows are cheaper to buy and install, but they can be more expensive to maintain.
Washing and Maintaining
Crank windows are much easier to wash, especially in hard-to-reach places. This is the reason why crank windows are so often found over kitchen sinks. Most of today’s better-constructed casements pivot on their hinges as they open, moving the full sash away from the hinge side of the window frame. This provides an opening to reach through to clean the outside of the window. Additionally, a spring-loaded screen is easy to remove from casement windows.
Apart from the regular cleaning of the crank window, it is also crucial to keep the cranking mechanism well greased. Simply spray the top and the bottom hinges with a silicone-based lubricant, then open and close the window a few times to disperse the lubricant throughout the hinge assembly.
A single slider window is a little harder to clean because half of the window opens and half is fixed. Although the open part can be easily cleaned, you would still need to take off the screen and reach the outside for the fixed half. Consider installing a double slider window if you like to keep your windows clean. This type of slider window has both sashes with a tilt-in function, so cleaning becomes much easier.
Consider the View
Sliding windows are larger than crank windows. With a sliding window, your eyes take in more from side to side than up and down. Therefore, a larger sliding window offers a more unobstructed view of the outside world. If you want to choose a window that will allow you to enjoy more outdoor scenery, sliding windows are the way to go.
Security
Most homeowners are concerned about how safe their windows are. When it comes to security, both of these types of windows are secure. Do remember though, that if someone wants to get into your home, they can smash the glass and enter. When you choose triple glass or laminated glass for your windows, it will add to your peace of mind in the event someone tries to smash your windows.
Basements
Egress windows in the basement are important for safety reasons. A basement window needs to open wide enough for people to get through in case of a fire or any other emergency. Both crank and sliding windows are easy and safe to install in a basement.
Make sure the window company you choose to install or replace windows has quality products and can supply you with all the information you need to make your installation decisions.
Discount Window and Door of Omaha – Top Window Company in Omaha, NE
At Discount Window and Door of Omaha, we are committed to providing the best quality doors and replacement windows. We employ the most skilled installers to ensure the highest standard of quality service. Our Omaha door and window installers are highly trained, certified industry professionals with years of experience, including some second and third-generation employees.