Casement windows hinge on the side and open outward with a crank handle. They maximize ventilation while providing beautiful, uninterrupted views. They also offer a clean look that complements many coastal and contemporary architectural styles.
They are an excellent option for homeowners who dislike the muntins (faux strips) that divide glass panes. They also provide superior air sealing and reduce energy bills by 25-40% during Florida’s intense summer weather.
Ventilation
Unlike single sash and sliding windows that use center rails that obstruct views, casement windows open outward with the crank of a handle. This allows for more unobstructed views and excellent ventilation, especially in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.
Compared to other window types, they also feature fewer muntins, the supporting strips that separate glass panes. This gives them a cleaner look that can enhance contemporary and modern architecture.
In addition to their superior ventilation, impact casement windows are designed with hook-shaped locks embedded in the frame that make it difficult for burglars to manipulate them. Additionally, they undergo rigorous testing to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions. Their laminated glass construction holds together even when cracked, preventing dangerous debris from flying through your home during severe weather events. When properly installed, they offer unparalleled protection and energy efficiency, while meeting Miami-Dade’s strict building codes. They also qualify you for substantial insurance discounts.
Hurricane Protection
Hurricane-safe windows provide protection from strong winds, debris impact, and high-velocity rain. These windows are tested and approved to meet Miami-Dade’s stringent requirements, ensuring safety and durability during tropical storms and hurricanes.
A reinforced frame and multi-point locking system enhance security, while a hard-to-break glass increases resistance to flying debris during a storm. Homeowners in high-risk coastal areas can also improve their windows’ shatter resistance by adding hurricane film, a clear layer that strengthens the glass and helps hold together shattered pieces.
To maximize the benefits of their hurricane-resistant windows, homeowners must ensure proper installation and regular maintenance. This includes regular cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners, lubricating moving parts, and biannual inspections. Maintaining these measures extends the life of the windows, preserves warranties, and protects the home’s value, energy efficiency, and ventilation capabilities for years to come. When combined with insurance discounts and higher home resale values, these benefits often offset the upfront cost of high-quality impact windows.
Energy Efficiency
The side-hinged design of casement windows opens wide for exceptional ventilation, catching fresh breezes and directing them towards interior living spaces. A simple crank mechanism is easy to operate, making these windows an excellent choice for hard-to-reach areas in bathrooms or kitchens.
Energy-efficient windows are engineered with multiple panes and insulating gas fills to reduce heat transfer. This minimizes air conditioning usage, reducing energy costs and contributing to long-term financial savings for Miami homeowners. Additionally, Low-E coatings reflect solar heat and glare to prevent excessive sun exposure, further enhancing your home’s energy efficiency.
These energy-efficient features can be enhanced further with impact-resistant window installation. Featuring high-strength fiberglass and laminated glass, impact-rated windows provide superior resistance to both large and small missile impacts. Combined with superior ventilation, improved air quality, and insurance discounts, impact-rated casement windows deliver outstanding long-term ROI. Contact our expert team to learn more about transforming your Miami home with beautiful, hurricane-resistant impact windows.
Maintenance
Unlike traditional sliding windows, casement windows open outward on hinges to allow for top-to-bottom ventilation. This provides a powerful airflow and helps reduce your home’s energy consumption during the hottest weather. In addition to this, they feature improved security with hook-shaped locks embedded directly into the frame, making it more difficult for burglars to manipulate them.
Designed with Miami-Dade approved impact glass and heavy-duty frames, these windows can resist hurricane-force winds and flying debris, ensuring the safety of your family and belongings. Moreover, they provide superior acoustic dampening and block 99% of harmful UV radiation, which preserves furnishings and artwork. As a result, Florida homeowners are eligible to receive homeowner insurance premium discounts for impact window installation.
Despite their durability, these windows require routine maintenance to keep them looking and functioning great. If you notice any problems with your casement windows, such as scratches or dings in the frame or sash, it’s important to call a professional for repairs instead of trying to fix them yourself.