Finding the perfect window coverings for Raleigh homes is probably the best part of working in home design and fashion. And few styles of windows present the same design obstacle as casement windows do. As opposed to normal sliding windows, casement windows are attached with hinges on one or more sides, and thus swing in and out to open and close.
Because they work differently from most other windows, they necessitate a somewhat unique approach when looking for a window treatment. Let’s break down how to find an ideal casement window treatment.
Priorities for Casement Window Treatments
When picking a window covering for your casement window, be sure to keep these qualities in mind.
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Ease of operation - Whether your casement window opens via lever, cam handle, or crank, you should be able to easily open and shut your window without the trouble of a window treatment getting in the way.
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Ability to fit the depth of your window - Individual casement windows will have varying depths between the wall and the window, which means some window treatments may not fit the space.
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Coverage - Unlike sliding windows which usually can only open partway, just about all casement windows will be able to open all the way. That range of light control will let you achieve a perfect level of light without sacrificing the great ventilation that casements give you.
The Best Casement Window Treatment Options
So what’s the ideal window treatment for Raleigh casement windows? Since there can be some differences between various casement windows (hinge position, window jamb depth, and so on), it’s good to have an in-home consultation so a window treatment professional can help match you with your home’s best fit.
Knowing that, these are the window treatment options we usually recommend for casement windows.
Plantation Shutters
You absolutely can’t go wrong with plantation shutters on casement windows. Whether a casement swings from the top (known as an “awning”), the bottom (a “hopper”), or one of the sides, plantation shutters can be fit to match how your window operated. That also ensures that the shutter won’t interfere with the opening mechanism, whether it’s by handle or crank, and can fit perfectly into your window jamb or on top of them so your window depth isn’t a factor.
Shutters can be installed around the opening of the window to ensure full use of the opening mechanism. As a bonus, you don’t have to worry about suspended material blowing in the wind or being left exposed when you have your window open.
Lastly, shutters let you into a huge world of coverage options for your window. Say you need to have a good amount of fresh air circulating in your house, but don’t want a lot of light. Simply open your casement window, but set your shutter louvers partially open so that you can get the best of both worlds. That amount of control is only achievable with plantation shutters.
Shades
A more minimal option compared to shutters, shades offer stylish looks and an effective framing to your window, without blocking the unique opening mechanism. Due to the fact that shades are always installed on top of the frame, there’s no reason to worry about which direction the window is hinged or the window depth. Shades can easily be pulled to the top when the window opens, so your view and airflow remain unobstructed.
Cellular shades as well as roman shades look stylish on casement windows while offering great coverage.
Other Casement Window Treatments
As we’ve said, casement windows can differ in multiple ways, so there can be other window treatments that fit just as well for your house. To learn more about your window treatment options, call Sunburst Shutters Raleigh at
919-887-9198 today to schedule up a free in-home design consultation.