Choosing the perfect window treatments for Houston homeowners is probably the most enjoyable part of working in interior design and fashion. And few styles of windows present the same design obstacle as do casement windows. Unlike typical sliding windows, casement windows are hinged on one or more sides, and thus swing in or out to open and close.
Since they operate in a different way from most other windows, they need a somewhat unique approach when choosing the perfect window treatment. Let’s break down how to find your perfect casement window treatment.
Priorities for Casement Window Treatments
When picking a window covering for your swinging window, keep these qualities in mind.
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Ease of operation - Whether your casement window opens and closes via lever, cam handle, or crank, you need to be able to easily open and close it without the hassle of a window treatment getting in the way.
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Fitting your window depth - Individual casement windows will have differing depths between your wall and the window itself, which means some window treatments may be too deep for the space.
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Coverage - Unlike sliding windows which usually can only open halfway, just about all casement windows are able to open all the way. Having a good range of light control will let you achieve a perfect level of light without sacrificing the effective ventilation that casements give you.
Recommended Casement Window Coverings
So what’s our recommended window treatment for Houston casement windows? Because there can be some differences between different casement windows (hinge position, window jamb depth, and so on), it’s best to schedule an in-home consultation so a window treatment professional can help you find your own best fit.
Knowing that, here are the window treatment options we typically recommend for casement windows.
Plantation Shutters
You absolutely can’t go wrong with plantation shutters on casement windows. Whether your casement swings from the top (called an “awning”), the bottom (a “hopper”), or one of the sides, plantation shutters can be fit to match how your window operated. That customization also ensures that the shutter don’t impede the opening mechanism, whether it’s by handle or crank, and can fit perfectly into your window jamb or off of them so your window depth isn’t a factor.
Shutters can be put in around the opening of the window to ensure full use of the opening mechanism. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about hanging fabric blowing in the wind or being left exposed when you want your window open.
Finally, shutters open up a wide world of coverage options for your window. Say you need to have a good amount of fresh air circulating in your room, but want to keep the light level low. Simply open your casement window, but set your shutter louvers nearly shut so that you can your perfect level of fresh air and light. That amount of control is only possible with plantation shutters.
Shades
A more minimal option relative to shutters, shades offer chic looks and an effective framing to your window, without obstructing the unique opening mechanism. Due to the fact that shades are always installed on top of the frame, there’s no need to consider what direction the window opens or the window depth. Shades can easily be pulled up when the window opens, so your view and airflow stay undisturbed.
Both cellular shades and roman shades look stellar on casement windows while offering great light control.
Other Window Treatments For Casements
As we’ve said, casement windows can vary in some ways, so there may be other window treatments that function just as well for your home. To learn more about your window treatment options, call Sunburst Shutters Houston at
713-853-9629 today to schedule up your free window design consultation.