When homeowners across the East Midlands begin researching new windows, they often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options available. However, one specific style of window consistently remains the most popular choice in the UK: the casement window. A casement window is a type of window that is attached to its frame by one or more hinges at the side, top, or bottom. Unlike a sliding window (sash window), which moves within its own track, a casement window swings open and closed, much like a door.
At The Nottingham Window Company, we have spent years establishing ourselves as the region’s most reliable double glazing specialists. As a family-run business, we believe in honest values and providing high-performance renovation products that stand the test of time.
Whether you are looking to replace draughty frames or are planning a complete glazed extension, understanding the different types of casement windows is the first step toward a successful home improvement project. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the different options available for casement windows and explain the advantages of each style.
The enduring appeal of casement windows
The primary reason casement windows are found in almost every street up and down the UK is their incredible versatility. Unlike sash windows, which slide up and down vertically, casement windows are attached to their frame by one or more hinges at the side, top, or bottom.
This design offers several practical advantages:
- Unobstructed views of the outdoors: Because they don’t require the central horizontal meeting rail found in sash windows, casement designs provide a clear, expansive view.
- Fresh air and ventilation: The way these windows open allows them to act like a sail, funneling a breeze into your home to provide excellent ventilation.
- Security: When closed, the window sash presses firmly against the frame. Modern multi-point locking systems make them exceptionally difficult to force open from the outside.
Why homeowners are choosing casements in 2026
As of early 2026, we are seeing a significant shift in homeowner priorities. While aesthetics remain important, the driving force behind most renovations today is energy efficiency and improved thermal performance. With fluctuating energy costs, the ability of a window to create a tight seal against air leaks and the British weather is paramount. After all, if you’re paying significantly for your heating, you don’t want most of it escaping into the outdoors! Today, homeowners seek living spaces that are comfortable, warm and draught free.
We are also noticing a move toward “indoor-outdoor living”. Homeowners want to maximise natural light to make their living spaces feel larger and more connected to their gardens. Casement windows cater perfectly to this trend, offering slim sightlines that minimise the frame and maximise panes of glass to give uninterrupted views to the garden.
Exploring the main types of casement windows
Choosing the right configuration depends on the architectural style of your home and the specific function of the room. Here are the most common styles we install:
- Side-hung casementwindows
This is the classic configuration where the hinges are located on the side. The window opens outwards like a door.
- Ideal for: Most rooms in the house, especially where you want to catch a side breeze.
- Benefit: They provide maximum ventilation as the entire window area can be opened to the outside.
- Top-hung(awning) casement windows
These windows are hinged at the top and open outwards from the bottom.
- Ideal for: Bathrooms or kitchens, often positioned higher up on the wall.
- Benefit: Because the glass creates a “canopy” when open, they allow for fresh air even during a light rain shower without water entering the home.
- Flush casement windows
In a traditional casement, the window sash sits slightly proud of the frame. In a flush design, the sash sits perfectly level with the face of the window.
- Ideal for: Period properties or heritage cottages where you want to replicate the look of traditional timber joinery.
- Benefit: They offer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that is currently very high in demand for both modern and traditional renovations.
- French casement windows
Sometimes referred to as double casement windows, these consist of two sashes that open outwards from the centre, making them suitable for smaller rooms. Crucially, there is no central vertical bar (mullion) left behind when both are open.
- Ideal for: Narrower window openings or upper floors where an emergency exit (fire escape) may be required.
- Benefit: They provide completely unobstructed views of the outdoors and a grand, continental feel.
Performance benefits: efficiency and ease of use
When you invest in casement windows from an accredited installer like The Nottingham Window Company, you aren’t just buying glass and frames; you are buying long-term performance and peace of mind.
Energy efficiency
Our casement windows are engineered for easy operation and to lower your energy bills. By utilising multi-chambered profiles and high-quality weather seals, we ensure that heat stays inside during winter. The tight seal created by the casement design is one of the most effective at preventing draughts, directly impacting your home’s thermal performance and carbon footprint.
Low maintenance
Modern materials mean you no longer have to spend your weekends sanding and painting window frames. A simple wipe down with soapy water is usually all that is required to keep your windows looking brand new. For those with hard-to-reach upper floors, we can even provide “easy-clean” hinges that allow the window to slide toward the centre, letting you clean the outside glass from safely inside the room. When choosing between casement window styles, consider factors such as the ease of cleaning, the location of your windows (especially on upper floors), the maintenance required, and the accessibility of features like “easy-clean” hinges. These features can make a significant difference in long-term convenience and upkeep.
Safe and secure
Conforming to PAS 24 security specifications as standard, high security also plays an integral role with our casement windows. Secured with internal beading & multi-point locking, casement windows effectively keep warmth in and intruders out.
Material matters: aluminium vs uPVC
The material you choose will dictate the maintenance levels and the overall “look” of your project.
- uPVC Casement Windows: The most cost-effective and low maintenance option. Modern uPVC is highly durable and available in a vast array of woodgrain foils that look remarkably like real timber. Our Residence Collection is the most luxurious option available. Featuring an innovative chambered structure that can achieve A++ energy ratings with ease.
- Aluminium Windows: Aluminium windows are incredibly strong, allowing for even slimmer frames and larger panes of glass. This material is perfect for contemporary homes or for incorporating into bay windows to create a striking architectural feature. They are also highly sustainable, as aluminium is infinitely recyclable.
Customisation: creating your desired aesthetic
We believe that new windows should be as unique as the people living behind them. At The Nottingham Window Company, we provide extensive customisation options:
- Colour Palettes: Gone are the days of only having “White” as an option. You can choose from Anthracite Grey, Chartwell Green, Black, or even bespoke RAL colours to match your home’s personality. For more guidance on choosing the right window colour for your home, visit our Guide to New Coloured windows.
- Heritage styles: If you’re looking for a wood effect, but without the maintenance of real wood, our timber alternative windows truly deliver. These windows are known for their charming aesthetics that work perfectly on all properties including heritage cottages and farmhouses. They are available in a number of attractive colours including those designed to replicate traditional timber like Golden and Irish oak or the appearance of painted timber in grey or vintage cream.
- Hardware: From traditional monkey-tail handles for heritage homes to sleek, contemporary handles for modern builds, the finishing touches are up to you.
- Glazing options: Beyond standard double or triple glazing, we offer acoustic glass for noise reduction and various privacy glass patterns for bathrooms.
Why Choose The Nottingham Window Company?
Professionalism and reliability are the cornerstones of our service. All our installation experts are certified for quality and competence, ensuring that your home improvement project is handled with the care it deserves. We serve Nottingham, Leicester, and Derby with honest family values, ensuring that the quote we provide is fair and the work we do is exceptional.
As an established local specialist, we provide a full service, from initial design advice to aftercare. Our status as an accredited installer gives you the confidence that your investment is protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which type of casement window is best for ventilation?
Side-hung casements are excellent for maximum ventilation as they open fully. For safety and airflow in rain, top-hung windows are often preferred. French casement windows are also a great choice as they open fully without a central bar, letting in significant fresh air.
Are casement windows more secure than sash windows?
Generally, yes. Because casement windows have hooks and locks embedded within the frame, they are very difficult to pry open. When the handle is locked, the window is pulled tight against the seal, making it a very secure style of window for any home.
Can I use casement windows in a bay window?
Absolutely. Many bay windows are constructed using a series of casement windows joined at angles, which have excellent insulating properties and offer panoramic views. This allows you to have opening sections for airflow while maintaining the grand, traditional look of a bay.
How long do new casement windows last?
With low maintenance, modern uPVC or aluminium windows can easily last 20 to 30 years or more. Our high-performance products are built to withstand the UK weather while maintaining their energy efficiency and ease of use for decades, making them a wise choice for the long run.
Ready to Transform Your Home?
If you are ready to explore the different types of casement windows and find the perfect fit for your property, our team is here to help. Whether you want to reduce your energy costs or simply improve the look of your home, we provide the expertise and local knowledge you need, making these options an excellent investment for your property.
Get in touch with The Nottingham Window Company today. Call us directly on 0115 866 00 66 or send us a message using our online contact form. Trust Nottingham’s most reliable specialists to deliver the high-performance windows your home deserves.