What’s the difference between casement windows and flush casement windows?

What is a casement window?

A standard casement window is a top-or-side hinged window that can be installed singly or in pairs within a common frame. They tend to have a sub-frame or built-in-sash that allows them to open, but this also means that they’re usually smaller than the opening they’re installed within.

If a slim frame is a priority but you still want the aesthetic of a casement, a material such as aluminium will help you achieve a sleeker look. As you’ll see, flush casements are slimmer but give a different appearance.

You might want to note that casement windows are not the same as picture windows. While they look very similar, picture windows tend to be larger and, rather crucially, do not open.

What is a flush casement window?

Unsurprisingly, flush casement windows are very similar to standard casement windows. Still, there is one significant difference — standard casements are lipped, but flush casements are not.

What does ‘lipped’ mean? If you look at a lipped window side-on, you’ll notice that the openable parts of the window (or casements) protrude slightly from the frame. If you like the look of this lip, you’ll want to stick to normal casements.

What do flush casement windows look like? These windows don’t protrude at all. With a flush casement style, you’ll have a completely flat window surface. The original casement look, inspired by traditional joinery, combined with a more modern, elegant twist, gives flush casements a versatile aesthetic.

Plus, they have a few advantages of their own (but more on that later).

What are the advantages of casement windows?

In all honesty, there’s not a lot wrong with casement windows. They’re great all-rounders. Not only are they one of the most cost-effective windows we install, but they are also incredibly durable, thanks to their simple ergonomic design.

They’re also highly insulative, forming a completely airtight seal when closed. Of course, this is assuming that the windows are fitted correctly – a bad fitting can result in a weak seal. Hire an experienced installer, and this shouldn’t be an issue! 

Plus, modern casement windows will also be double glazed, like ours, which come with insulative A-rated double glazing as standard. Double glazing will prevent frustrating draughts and reduce how much noise you can hear from the street. With the UK’s ever-increasing traffic and notoriously fickle weather, this extra layer of protection is sure to be appreciated.

Lastly, casement windows are an excellent window option because of their versatility. Whether you have a modern or traditional property, they can fit in with your existing aesthetic. Need a discreet side window? A single uPVC casement window will do the job. Need a front-facing window to match a specific style? You can get casements in a range of coloured and wood grain finishes.

What are the disadvantages of casement windows?

If we had to pinpoint a drawback of casement windows, it would probably be that their protruding ‘lips’ can be more exposed to wear and tear than other window types. Every part of your home will get old eventually, and your casements will be no different. Still, our casements are weather-proofed and designed by experts to last as long as possible.

Heritage properties

While there aren’t many ‘disadvantages’ of casement windows, it might just be that they aren’t the best window type for your home. 

For instance, if you have sash windows for every window in your property, a casement window might look out of place. This isn’t an issue unique to casement windows, but something to keep in mind when window shopping.

Pay particular attention to your existing windows if you live in a heritage property, as legal restrictions could limit your window replacement options. If your home is listed, you usually have to replace like for like, unless an alternative still blends seamlessly into your home’s original style.

Why choose flush casement windows?

Firstly, we should say that whether you choose casement windows or flush casement windows, you’ll benefit from the same core properties. 

Having said that, if you want the sleekest casement window, flush casement windows are the ones for you. As the ‘modern’ look becomes increasingly popular, flush casement windows are on the rise. If you like the functionality that casement windows offer but find yourself drawn to other slimmer window types, flush might be the perfect in-between. 

Lipped casement windows can look a little plain on some properties. Homeowners often find that flush is an elegant alternative with a little more personality.

CTG Windows

At CTG windows, we custom make both standard casement and flush casement windows in our South West factory. If you’d like to chat about your window options, feel free to give us a call or drop by our Hayle showroom. Still browsing online? 

We have plenty of examples of our French, Bay and Bow, Tilt and Turn, and Aluminium windows. Just take a look at our brochure.