Why Choose Storm Casement Windows vs Flush Casement Windows?
Simply put, the best stormproof casement windows offer all the benefits of flush casement windows, with enhanced weather resistance and thermal insulation.
Both types of casement windows are energy-efficient, secure, and customisable.
You may be wondering why anyone would then choose flush casement windows.
Well, it mostly comes down to personal taste, balanced alongside other factors, including budget, climate, and architecture.
In this blog, we will outline the differences between storm casement windows and flush casement windows and the benefits of each to help you make your decision.
Key Differences Between Storm and Flush Casement Windows:
Stormproof Casement Windows
Traditional casement windows have one or more exterior hinges and may be single or in pairs within the frame. They can be opened from the top or bottom and swung outward.
First introduced to the UK in the 1950s, stormproof casement windows were designed to offer increased protection against harsh weather conditions.
Design
Also known as ‘lipped’ windows, stormproof casement windows have a lip or casement that sits over the external frame to stop the window from going further into the frame, giving an embossed look.
Weatherproofing
This sash or casement adds extra weatherproofing, hence the name. The wind pushes the lip into the seals to further reduce the chance of draughts and heat loss.
Security
In addition to their inward opening design, strong latches, multi-point locking systems and toughened glass, the lip on a stormproof window creates an extra security barrier.
Energy-efficiency
Our A-rated stormproof casement windows are engineered for the highest energy efficiency, with airtight seals preventing heat loss for reduced energy bills. They can also help lower your home’s carbon footprint.
Noise Reduction
The lip also reduces noise pollution slightly by making it more difficult for ambient sounds to penetrate the glass.
Benefits
- Weatherproof - Designed to withstand strong winds and heavy rain
- Secure - Outward swing makes entry difficult, multi-lock systems are also available, and the lip creates an additional barrier to entry.
- Good ventilation
- High acoustic performance
- Embossed appearance
- Easy to clean
- Let in natural light
- Provide great views
- Range of glazing options
- Customisable - Can be finished in any RAL colour in smooth or grained effects
Flush Casement Windows
Design
Flush casement windows sit flush with the frame, offering a sleeker look. Marrying a traditional look with modern technology, they are one of the most popular window choices for UK homeowners. We can manufacture our flush casement windows two ways – with a traditional mock mortise and tenon joint or with more modern ‘invisible’ welds, it is up to you.
Weatherproofing
Flush casement windows have airtight seals to prevent water leaks and heat loss.
Security
Our flush casement windows are safe and secure. Opening from the inside, they feature multi-point locking systems and airtight seals to prevent would-be intruders.
Energy-efficiency
The airtight seals, double or triple-glazing and strong frames make our flush casement windows highly energy-efficient. They are A-rated for energy performance.
Noise Reduction
Flush casement windows offer good noise reduction, depending on the material of the frame and the thickness of the glass. For a more comprehensive approach to noise pollution, acoustic glass can be fitted.
Benefits
- Weatherproof - High performance against standard UK weather
- Secure - Outward swing makes entry difficult, multi-lock systems are also available
- High acoustic performance
- Seamless, minimalist appearance
- Easy to clean
- Let in natural light
- Provide great views
- Customisable - Can be finished in any RAL colour in smooth or grained effects
Pros and Cons of Each Type
Feature | Storm Casement Windows (Pros) | Storm Casement Windows (Cons) | Flush Casement Windows (Pros) | Flush Casement Windows (Cons) |
Weatherproofing | ✅ Highly weatherproof; ideal for harsh climates. | None. | ✅ Airtight seals offer good weather resistance depending on the frame material. | ❌ Less weatherproof than stormproof windows. |
Aesthetics | ✅ Modern and functional appearance. | ❌ May not suit all architectural styles. Limited customisation in some materials. | ✅ Sleek, minimalist design that suits period and modern homes. Excellent for heritage homes or conservation areas. | None. |
Energy Efficiency | ✅ Overlapping design offers excellent energy efficiency. | None. | ✅ Energy efficient with proper glazing. | ❌ Limited insulation unless double or triple-glazed. |
Maintenance | ✅ Low maintenance especially in UPVC or aluminium. | ❌ UPVC may need replacing sooner than aluminium or timber. | ✅ Low maintenance in aluminium or UPVC | ❌ Higher maintenance in traditional finishes, such as timber. |
Cost | ✅ Affordable in UPVC materials. | ❌ Slightly higher cost in aluminium or timber. | ✅ Affordable in UPVC materials | ❌ Costlier in premium materials such as timber. |
Alternatives to UPVC Casement Windows:
Timber casement windows
Durable, thermally efficient and full of natural beauty, our high-quality timber casement windows are available in sustainable woods such as Sapele, Accoya and Meranti. With double-glazing and a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee as standard, these attractive windows are made to look good and built to last.
Slimline aluminium windows
Looking for something a little different? Our slimline aluminium casement windows utilise larger panes of glass and slimmer sightlines for fantastic views. Ideal for modern or period properties, our slimline aluminium windows are low maintenance but high style and offer the same 10-year insurance-backed guarantee for your peace of mind.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Windows are a significant purchase so it is important to find the best fit for your home and lifestyle.
The choice between stormproof and flush casement windows depends on your property design, climate, budget and personal preferences. Stormproof windows are perfect for those seeking durability and weather resistance, while flush windows offer a timeless, heritage-inspired look.
We hope this blog has helped you come to a decision. If you would like to know more, the Manchester Window Factory team is here to support you, every step of the way.
How to Get in Touch
If you want to find out more about creating customised windows, doors, and conservatories, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call us on 0161 976 4739, use our contact form or chat with us via the chat button at the bottom right of this website. If you live locally, you can also visit our Altrincham showroom, and check our contacts page for up-to-date opening hours.
We look forward to hearing from you!
FAQS
Although you may think the main difference is weather performance, thanks to modern technologies enhancing the traditional flush casement window, the main difference is in appearance.
It mostly comes down to personal preference – do you prefer an embossed or a minimalist look?
No, contemporary flush casement windows don’t leak. This is not so much a myth as outdated information. The first flush casement windows did tend to leak in heavy rain, causing dampness and water damage. However, that was a long time ago. Flush casement windows have evolved over the years and now feature a secondary layer of sealing, to prevent water leaks and heat loss.
Yes, well-fitted high-quality casement windows are typically very difficult to break into for three reasons:
- The hinges are inside of the frame, making them hard to access to manipulate.
- The frames are secured with airtight seals when the window is closed and latched.
- The latches are also inside and the windows can only be opened from the inside.
In addition, our windows have multi-point locking systems, with toughened laminated safety glass available in every window design.
We’ve looked at some of the benefits of both types of casement windows, but there are a few disadvantages to this type of unit. The main disadvantage is that they require more components. As such, they have more pieces that can break, are harder to use, and more difficult to repair.
Other disadvantages of casement windows include:
- Tend to be heavier – can put stress on the frame over time
- More difficult to install
- Can be expensive
- Can’t be covered by blinds or curtains when opened
This ultimately depends on your needs. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall and/or strong winds, stormproof casement windows will offer you the peace of mind you crave. If this does not apply, stormproof casement windows will still enhance your insulation and may add value to your property.
Alternatively, flush casement windows enhance the appearance of your home, provide extra security and privacy, and offer spectacular uninterrupted views. However, they are better suited to smaller rooms where they can provide plenty of natural light.
You may prefer sliding sash windows, which offer different advantages and drawbacks.
