A casement window is hinged at the side and opens outward with a crank, giving you full airflow, a tight seal, and clear views through a single pane of glass.
A casement window swings outward on hinges and you open and close it with a crank handle. Some people also call them crank windows or crank out windows. The window sash opens wide and lets air through the entire frame. That is why they are a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms across Mankato.
The Window Source of Mankato installs vinyl casement windows, custom casement windows, and standard casement sizes with energy-efficient glazing and a lifetime warranty. Check out our casement and awning window options to see what we carry.
Key Takeaways
- Casement windows open outward on hinges and let air through the entire window frame.
- Crank out windows work well above kitchen sinks, in bathrooms, and in hard-to-reach spots.
- The sash presses into the frame when it closes, which helps cut heating costs in cold climates.
- The main downsides are outdoor clearance, crank wear over time, and higher cost than some styles.
- The Window Source of Mankato offers casement window replacement with multi-point locks, Low-E glazing, and a lifetime warranty.
What Is a Casement Window?
A casement window is a single-sash window that is hinged at the side and opens outward with a crank handle.
The window sash holds the panes of glass and swings out like a small door when you turn the crank. When you close it, the crank arm pulls the casement sash back against the window frame and weatherstripping. Most casement windows have a multi-point locking system that presses the sash into the seal at several spots.
Casement Window Parts
Every casement window has a few main parts that work together:
- Sash — The panel that holds the glass pane and swings open
- Window frame — The outer structure attached to the wall
- Hinge — Mounted on one side of the window, lets the sash swing outward
- Crank handle — The handle you turn to open and close the window
- Weatherstripping — Seals gaps around the sash to block drafts
- Lock — Multi-point system that pulls the sash tight into the frame
- Grille — Optional decorative bars across the glass for an architectural style look
Casement Window Frame Materials
| Frame Material | Energy Efficiency | Durability | Maintenance | Best For |
| Vinyl (PVC) | High R-value, low heat transfer | Very good | No paint needed | Most Mankato homes, budget-friendly |
| Wood | Very good building insulation | High with upkeep | Needs paint or stain | Traditional architectural style |
| Aluminum | Lower R-value | Very high | Low | Modern aesthetics, beauty |
| Composite | Very good | Very high | Low | Long-term window performance |
Most Mankato homeowners go with vinyl casement windows because they handle cold weather, do not rot, and never need painting.
Types of Casement Windows
Casement windows come in several styles, and each type of casement window fits different openings and home designs.
Single Casement Window
A single casement window has one sash that is hinged at the side and swings open outward. It fits tall, narrow openings and is the most common casement style.
Double Casement Window
A double casement window has two sashes that open from the center. Both sashes swing outward, giving you maximum ventilation through the full opening. This style works well on wider walls where a single casement would look too narrow.
French Casement Windows
French casement windows have two sashes with no center post between them. When both sashes open, you get a completely clear view with no bar in the middle. They add beauty and a classic design to living rooms and dining areas.
Custom Casement Windows
If your opening is not a standard window size, custom casement windows fit non-standard wall openings. The Window Source of Mankato can order custom casement units to match your exact casement window size needs.
How Does a Casement Window Compare to Other Styles?
A casement window gives you more airflow and a stronger seal than most other window types, but it needs outdoor clearance to open.
| Window Type | How It Opens | Airflow | Seal | Clearance |
| Casement | Swings outward on side hinges | Full opening | Very strong | Yes |
| Double hung window | Sashes slide up and down | Half the opening | Moderate | No |
| Sliding window | Sash glides side to side | Half the opening | Moderate | No |
| Awning window | Swings outward from the top | Partial | Very strong | Yes |
| Sash window | One or both sashes slide vertically | Half the opening | Moderate | No |
A double hung or sliding window only opens about half the frame. Crank out windows open the entire frame for maximum ventilation. But you do need clear space outside for the window sash to swing.
You can see all our window installation services to compare casement with other window types we carry.
Pros of Casement Windows
Casement windows open fully, seal tight, and give you clear views with simple crank operation.
Full Ventilation
The sash opens outward and leaves the entire window frame clear for ventilation. A double hung window or sliding window only lets air through about half the opening. Casement windows are often used in rooms that need fast air circulation, like kitchens and bathrooms.
Strong Seal Against Cold
Wind pushes the casement sash harder into the frame when it hits the glass from outside. That pressure makes the seal stronger. For Southern Minnesota winters, this means less heat loss and lower energy bills. Casement windows are an energy efficient choice for cold climates.
Easy Crank Operation
The crank handle sits at the bottom. You turn it and the window swings open. That makes crank out windows a great fit above kitchen sinks, in bathrooms, behind furniture, or anywhere reaching feels awkward. You open and close it with one hand.
Clear Views and Natural Light
Casement windows use a single sash with no meeting rail through the glass pane. You get more natural light and a wider view. This style of window makes rooms look bigger and brighter.
Noise Reduction
A casement window with double-pane or triple pane windows and insulated glazing helps with soundproofing. The strong seal and quality glass cut down on outside noise.
| Glazing Type | Energy Efficiency | Soundproofing | Best For |
| Double-pane | Good | Moderate | Most homes and budgets |
| Double-pane with Low-E | Very good | Good | Year-round comfort |
| Triple-pane | Best R-value | Best noise reduction | Cold climates |
| Insulated glazing with argon | Very high | Very good | Maximum energy savings |
Cons of Casement Windows
Casement windows need outdoor clearance, cost more than some styles, and the crank can wear over time.
They Need Outdoor Clearance
The window swings outward when you open the window. If your casement sits near a deck, walkway, or outdoor furniture, the sash can block the path. Check the space outside before choosing this type of window.
The Crank Wears Over Time
The crank handle and gears do the work every time you open and close the window. After years of use, the crank arm can feel stiff. Replacing it is a small job, but it is extra upkeep compared to a sliding window with no moving gears.
They Cost More
Crank out windows usually cost more per window than double hung or sliding styles. The crank, hinges, and multi-point lock add to the price. But the energy savings from the stronger seal often make up for it in a cold climate like Mankato.
Not Ideal for Wide Openings
A single casement window works best in tall, narrow openings. Wide wall openings look better with a double casement window, a picture window, or a sliding window. The design and aesthetics of your home should guide your casement window options.
Best Rooms for Casement Windows
Casement windows work best in rooms that need strong ventilation, natural light, and easy operation.
Kitchens
Crank out windows make the most sense above a kitchen sink. Turn the handle, and cooking smells clear out fast. Casement windows are often used here because you do not need to reach up or lean over anything.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms need ventilation to clear steam and moisture. A casement window gives you airflow through the whole opening. The crank makes it simple to open the window from inside a shower area.
Living Rooms
Casement windows bring in wide views and natural light because there is no rail through the glass pane. They pair well with fixed or picture windows on larger walls. French casement windows add extra beauty to formal living spaces.
Bedrooms
They work well in bedrooms where you want fresh air at night. The multi-point lock keeps the window secure. Pair them with insulated glazing to reduce noise while you sleep.
Are Casement Windows Energy Efficient?
Casement windows are one of the most energy efficient window types because the sash presses into the frame when it closes.
Wind pressure pushes the sash into the weatherstripping and creates a strong seal. This means less heat transfer and fewer drafts. Windows account for 25% to 30% of home heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. An efficient window with Low-E glazing and a strong R-value helps bring that number down.
For Mankato homes, pairing a new casement with insulated glass, a vinyl frame, and quality weatherstripping gives you solid building insulation. Brands like Pella, Ecoline Windows, and others sell quality windows. But what matters most is the glazing, the frame, and a proper window installation with no gaps to ensure the window seals right.
Learn more about how we handle windows and doors projects at The Window Source of Mankato.
How Do You Maintain Casement Windows?
You maintain casement windows by cleaning the glass, checking the crank, oiling the hinges, and looking at the weatherstripping.
- Clean the glass panes inside and out a few times a year
- Wipe down the window frame and sill with a damp cloth
- Lubricate the crank gears and crank arm once a year
- Oil the hinges so the sash swings smoothly
- Check the weatherstripping for cracks or gaps
- Test the lock to ensure the window latches at every point
A few minutes of care each season keeps your casement windows working for years. If your existing window or old window feels stiff or drafty, it may be time to replace your windows with a new window.
Final verdict
A casement window is right for your home if you want airflow through the whole opening, a strong seal, and easy crank operation.
It works best in tall, narrow openings where you need strong ventilation. If you have a wide opening, a double casement window or sliding window fits better. Mixing types of windows through your home is a smart way to get the right fit for each room and stay within your budget.
The Window Source of Mankato carries standard casement, custom casement windows, and French casement windows in sizes that fit most openings. We do free in-home estimates with no pressure. Give us a call at 507-720-0722.
FAQs
What is a casement window?
A casement window is hinged at the side and swings open outward with a crank handle. It lets air through the entire window opening.
Are casement windows also called crank windows?
Yes. People call them crank windows or crank out windows because you turn a crank handle to open and close them.
What casement window sizes are available?
Casement window sizes range from small standard casement units to large custom casement windows. The Window Source of Mankato can order sizes to fit your exact opening.
Are casement windows good for kitchens?
Yes. The crank makes them easy to open above a sink. The full opening clears cooking smells and brings in fresh air for maximum ventilation.
Do casement windows save energy?
Yes. The sash presses into the frame and creates a strong seal. Casement windows are an energy efficient type of window that helps cut heating costs in cold climates.
How long do casement windows last?
Quality vinyl casement windows last 20 to 30 years with basic care. The crank and hinges may need attention before the frame does.