4 Factors That Impact “Handing” When Fixing Your Casement Windows
Posted in Window Locks, on August 10, 2021
If you’re repairing or replacing an old casement window, there are several things to consider. And if you're choosing to replace casement window parts, you should be shopping for the highest quality parts like Truth Window Hardware.
When replacing casement window parts, you actually have the opportunity to customize how your window will operate. For example, you may want to choose a specific direction for the window to swing open (left or right opening possibility).
When replacing window parts, it’s critical to choose quality. At the Window Hardware Company, we sell only Truth Window Hardware – the leading supplier of parts in the industry. We also help our customers to choose the correct parts.
Determining Swing Direction
The direction that a casement window opens is called “handing." The window will open either from the right or left (applies only to windows that swing out). When deciding on "handing", it's important to choose what’s best for you. There’s no wrong choice, but there are factors to consider when deciding on left or right opening – like air ventilation, noise control, and ease of operation.
Hinges and Multiple Windows
When two windows (casement) are installed in a corner of any room, it’s aesthetically attractive if the window hinges are as close as possible to the corner. When two windows (casement) are side by side or if they’re “joined” together by a stationary window between, it’s typical to see the window hinges on the outer-most sides. However, if they’re too close together you want to ensure that the hinges do not interfere with each other and that the widows don’t swing out and touch or hit each other. When you shop Truth Window Hardware at the Window Hardware Company we will provide you with measurements of our casement window parts so you can be sure to avoid this problem.
Optimizing the Outside Breeze
The beauty of a casement window that’s open is that it effectively captures a breeze, allowing it to blow into the home. This can only occur when a window swings open into the wind – so it’s best to install a casement window to catch a prevailing wind. Because the wind doesn't necessarily blow in one direction all the time, rooms with more than a single window should open in “opposing” directions.
Potential for Noise Reduction
Interestingly, the noise factor is often overlooked when installing or repairing casement windows. In fact, casement windows are designed to redirect noise. It means that when planning for window upgrades, it’s always a good option to install windows that will open away from a busy street (or even noisy neighbours). This is particularly true when planning out window options for your bedrooms.
Convenient Crank Operation
For the most part, people find it easier to open and close a window with their “dominant” hand. Once everything else has been considered, a casement window can actually swing open in either direction. However, considering that the majority of people are right-handed, a window crank on the right-hand side and the closing latch on the left-hand side may be best – again, up to personal preference.
Shopping at the Window Hardware Company
As a leading window parts supplier, the Window Hardware Company offers high-quality window hardware to homeowners, contractors, and builders. We stock thousands and thousands of parts – from window parts to patio door hardware to window accessories – and we make it easy and convenient to shop at our online store.
Call Window Hardware Company today or browse online to find your perfect fit casement window parts.