Windows let in a lot of heat, which can make your home less comfy and cost more to heat. So, picking between casement and picture windows is key.
This guide helps you choose between casement and picture windows. We look at how they work, how they look, and how they save energy and money. The right choice can let in more light and air, but you need special features to keep your home comfy.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right windows can save you money and make your home more comfy.
- Casement windows are great for air flow, while picture windows let in more light.
- Check ENERGY STAR and NFRC ratings to compare windows.
- Total Home Windows & Doors GTA offers local options for Ontario homes.
- Using both picture and casement windows can be the best choice for light and air.
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What is a Casement Window?
A casement window is a window that opens by turning a handle. It swings out like a door. This gives you a clear view and lets in fresh air.
Casement windows are great for catching breezes. You can angle the sash to bring in air. This is perfect for kitchens and bedrooms.
When closed, casement windows seal well. This helps keep air in and out. Look for ENERGY STAR windows for the best performance.
There are good and bad things about casement windows. They let in lots of air and have great views. They are also easy to open in hard-to-reach places.
But, they need regular checks to work well. They can leak if not looked after. They also need space to open and can be more expensive than other windows.
They are best for places that need air, like kitchens and bedrooms. They also work well around big windows. Sizes vary, but they are usually 24×36 to 36×48 inches.
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What is a Picture Window?
A picture window is a fixed window that shows off the outdoors like a painting. It has big glass and a thin frame. This lets in lots of light, making it great for rooms.
Picture windows give you a clear view and lots of light. They’re perfect for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. They’re also good for kitchens above sinks.
Because they don’t open, picture windows are very tight. This makes them better at keeping air and water out. Adding special coatings and gas can make them even better at keeping energy in.
The energy use of picture windows depends on the glass and frame. Look for ones that are ENERGY STAR certified. In cold places, a low U-factor is important to save heat.
Picture windows have many good points. They let in lots of light, have great views, and are very tight. They come in many sizes, from small to very big.
But, picture windows don’t let in air. You need to pair them with windows that open. Cleaning them can be hard, and they can let in too much heat in summer and winter. Big custom windows can be expensive.
To make the most of picture windows, pair them with other types of windows. This lets in air while keeping the view. Big windows need strong frames to stay straight and look good.
For design ideas, think about big windows that go all the way up. Or group them with transoms. Mixing fixed and operable windows is also a good idea. This way, you get both light and air in your home.
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Compare Energy Efficiency Between Casement and Picture Windows: Comparison Table
We look at how casement and picture windows save energy. We check U-factor, SHGC, visible transmittance, air leakage, and more. These factors help us see which is better for your home.
Let’s compare these windows. Both can have low U-factors with the right glass and coatings. But, SHGC changes based on the glass and frame size.
Picture windows let in more light because they have more glass. They also seal better over time. Casement windows are good at keeping air out when closed, but seals can wear out.
Look for NFRC labels and ENERGY STAR windows for certified info. The type of frame can also affect how well a window keeps heat out.
| Criterion | Picture Window | Casement Window |
|---|---|---|
| U-factor comparison | Very low possible with double/triple panes, Low-E and argon; larger sizes may require triple-pane for best results | Low U-factors achievable with same glazing; frame and sash reduce glass area slightly, similar overall performance |
| SHGC casement vs picture | High visible glass area raises SHGC; useful in cold climates, needs lower SHGC coatings in hot or sun-exposed locations | Moderate SHGC due to frame and hardware shading; selectable coatings allow tuning to climate needs |
| Visible transmittance | Higher VT overall; excellent for daylighting and passive solar gain | Slightly lower VT because of sash and hardware; yet, it provides strong daylighting |
| Air Leakage (AL) | Very low as it’s fixed; better long-term seal | Low when closed and latched; seals can degrade over time |
| Glazing type & coatings | Double- or triple-pane with Low-E recommended; larger units benefit from advanced coatings | Same glazing options as picture windows; hardware must accommodate heavier triple panes if used |
| Gas fill | Argon common; krypton for narrow cavities or high-performance triple-pane units | Argon common; krypton used where space or performance demands it |
| Practical notes for installers | Large picture windows may need reinforced frames and triple glazing to meet U-factor goals | Wide casements may need extra support to maintain seal performance over time |
In cold Canadian climates, focus on low U-factor and the right SHGC. Choose double- or triple-pane units with Low-E and argon. Picture windows with small casements offer good light and low leakage.
Total Home Windows & Doors in the GTA makes vinyl-framed casements and pictures for local needs. Always check NFRC and ENERGY STAR data for your specific windows.
Cost Analysis: Comparison Table
We break down the key cost components so you can compare casement vs picture window cost clearly. Unit cost covers materials and manufacturing. Casement windows have cranks and operating mechanisms in their hardware.
Glass choices like double- or triple-pane, Low-E coatings, and gas fills change the price a lot.
Frame material matters for casement window price and picture window price. Vinyl is affordable, aluminum costs more, and hybrid frames are more expensive. Custom sizing raises material and shop charges.
Labour and installation add a major line item, with window installation costs Canada varying by region and access.
Additional costs can appear when structural modifications are required. Large picture windows may need exterior access or scaffolding. Finishing, trim, and permitting add further charges.
Replacement projects tend to be less disruptive and less costly than new-construction installs that require full framing and nail fins.
We list typical price ranges based on industry norms to guide budgeting. Picture windows usually cost less in hardware but can climb for large glass and high-performance glazing. Casement windows include operating hardware and may need occasional maintenance that affects lifecycle cost.
| Item | Picture Window Price (CAD) | Casement Window Price (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (basic vinyl) | $500–$1,500 | $500–$1,000 | Picture windows lack hardware but large glazing raises cost |
| High-performance glass (Low-E, argon, triple) | $150–$800 extra | $150–$700 extra | Triple-pane and Low-E worth premium in cold Canadian climates |
| Hardware / operatives | Included — minimal | $75–$300 extra | Casement cranks and hinges increase casement window price |
| Custom sizing | $200–$1,000+ | $200–$1,000+ | Large or odd sizes push both prices up substantially |
| Labour / installation (per window) | $70–$150 | $80–$170 | Window installation costs Canada vary by region and complexity |
| Structural modifications / exterior access | $300–$2,000+ | $300–$2,000+ | Scaffolding, framing changes and permits increase final cost |
| Replacement vs new construction | Replacement: lower; New: higher | Replacement: lower; New: higher | Replacement fits existing frames; new builds require full framing |
| Typical combined scenario | $700–$3,500 | $700–$2,700 | Large picture units or premium glass push totals higher |
We recommend getting written quotes that list NFRC or ENERGY STAR specs, installation scope, and warranty. Local suppliers like Total Home Windows & Doors pricing can vary, so compare full estimates before committing.
When weighing value and ROI, factor in energy savings from Low-E coatings, argon fills, and triple-glazing. Energy-efficient upgrades may recoup a portion of the premium over time in Canada’s varied climate. Consider resale and curb appeal alongside ongoing comfort and maintenance costs when you evaluate casement vs picture window cost.
Casement vs Picture Windows: What’s Best for Your Home?
When picking windows, think about three main things. You want to let in lots of natural light and views. You also need good airflow and to save energy and keep sound out.
Picture windows are great for letting in lots of light because they have big, clear views. But, casement windows are better for moving air around. So, it depends on what you need most in each room.
What room you’re in helps decide. In living and dining areas, a big picture window is perfect. But, casement windows are better for air because they open wide.
In bedrooms, picture windows are okay if you can keep them private. But, casement windows are better for air and meeting safety rules. In kitchens and bathrooms, casement windows are best for air because they don’t block the sink or counter.
For basements and cold places, make sure windows meet safety rules. Look for triple glazing or special coatings to save energy. Check labels and certifications, and choose frames that keep heat in.
Our top tip: mix both types. Use a big picture window for light and views. Then, add casement windows for air and safety. This way, you get the best of both worlds for your home.
