Casement windows have an exterior hinge and can be used alone or in pairs inside a single frame. They are very easy to open and shut. Casement windows are kept open by using a casement stay. And if you close it, there are no loopholes that might cause a leak.
Still, some people fear choosing these windows because of some misconceptions that casement windows could leak. The truth is that casement windows do not leak if they are in a good state and installed appropriately. Still can’t be sure? Let’s find out.
do casement windows leak?
The answer is in your favor. Casement windows are usually not supposed to leak in standard condition. Still, there are other factors you have to consider.
If your casement window is tightly locked into its frame, as it should be, then there is no risk of leaking. There is very little space in casement windows, which are kept for air seeps. But these won’t disturb you as they are way smaller for water to leak.
So, If your window is a casement one and it is still leaking, it could mean that there is some damage or any other problem that you have to fix.
Reasons Your Casement Windows Might Leak
One of the prevalent issues with windows is leakage. While a casement window in the standard condition is supposed to protect you from any leaking, there are still sufficient reasons that might cause it to leak.
If you notice any form of leaking from the window or the window frame, it was most likely caused by your window.
Lots of reasons might be liable for leakage in casement windows. Damaged caulking, a loose gasket, or faulty fitting are the most common among them.
The probability that problems may arise also depends on the kind of casement windows you are using. Let’s check out some most known types and how likely they are to cause problems like these.
The Most Common Issues of Casement Windows
Windows are the shield protecting you from the sun, the rain, the snow, the wind, and most other natural calamities you can call out. So it’s obvious to face problems regarding windows.
Many issues can arise relating to the windows in your house. Even the best windows out there can manifest complications. Thus, you should be aware of the most frequent window problems and how to resolve them correctly.
1. Jammed Windows
It is typical to have difficulty opening or closing a window, but the answer is far too simple.
How Does It Happen
The type of window you have is relatable in this case. It determines whether you face a problem with jammed windows or windows that are hard to open or close.
If your window or frame is made of wood, the swelling of the wood, as well as dirt or debris on the window, could be the source of the problem.
On the contrary, if the window is a casement or awning, it is a problem with the hardware used in the installation.
How to fix it?
The key to solving most problems like these are routine maintenance. Clean your window on a regular basis. This will keep the window working smoothly and help you easily open and close it.
Using lubricant on the window frame’s track is also another option. Take good care of the spring mechanism. This will also aid in the smoother closing and opening of the window.
In case it is a casement window, look after the moving parts of the window and wherever necessary, to make it smooth, apply a lubricant.
If these solutions can’t help you, you might consider replacing them. You can get it at a low cost.
Read more: Do Casement Windows Need Alarm Sensors? (Explained)
2. Drafty Windows
It is the most prevalent issue encountered by all window users. This problem is mainly noticeable in the winter. It prevents the heater from warming the house, and you can not sit beside the window because of the cold.
It also raises the expense of your heating system, putting you in a difficult financial situation.
How Does It Happen
Many things could cause this problem. If you newly installed a window, a fault in the installation might be a reason behind it. If this is not the case, it may occur as a result of-
- Old weatherstripping
- Damage from extreme weather
- Seasonal weather fluctuations distort the frame.
How to fix it?
The answer might vary depending on the reason. If the problem is with the weatherstripping, it can be readily repaired by changing it. Nevertheless, if the damage is severe, such as from unusual weather or wrapping the frame, I recommend that you change the window as soon as possible.
3. Condensation Along The Bottom Of The Window
In most cases, the window itself cannot be the cause of such issues.
How Does It Happen
It occurs because of the access level of humidity in a house. The moisture can be caused by cooking, showering, and breathing also.
When the air in your room warms up, it collides with the cold window glass and forms it. Water in the window rolls down to the bottom of the glass due to this.
Since new windows are way more airtight than older ones, this problem occurs more frequently with those.
How to fix it?
This problem is a straightforward one to solve. You have to keep your window open for a small amount of time. It’s because of this aids in the removal of dry air from the room and the entrance of humid air. When you’re taking a shower, turn on the bathroom exhaust fan as well.
Read more: Can I Use WD40 On Casement Windows?
4. Condensation Between The Window Panes
This problem only happens when you have double or triple-pane windows. It is not applicable for single panes.
How Does It Happen
Sandwiching is the method of double or triple pane windows work. The gas is trapped between two or three layers of glass that are sealed together.
The seal is excellent, but if wet air becomes trapped, it might cause damage. You need to release the gas.
How to fix it?
At this point, I have to disappoint you because there is no specific solution to this problem.
You can unseal the panes to release the gas and then seal it again, but if you do it repeatedly, then the window can not give you a long time of service. At this point, the only answer is a replacement.
5. Leaky Windows
Leaky windows are one of the most annoying problems one might face regarding windows. It not only damages the window and the frame but also causes molds to grow because of the moisture released. Moreover, it is pretty painful to clean up the water again and again.
There are various ways to solve this problem. The easiest one is to find out the reason for the leakage first. After that, double-check to see if the windows are firmly closed. You should also inspect the locking mechanisms to ensure that they are in proper working condition. This will at least help you prevent damages caused by rain.
How Does It Happen
Two sources can cause problems such as leaky windows-
- The window itself
- A leak from another source
Most of the time, the window itself is the source of the problem. So check and see if there is any leak in the window frame. If you find any, the reason could be most probably damaged caulking, loose gaskets or improper installation.
The wall around the window, on the other hand, could cause the same problem. If the wall around it is leaking, it may damage the window and make it leak as well.
How to fix it?
The answer to the question, if it can be fixed, depends on two vital points-
- The source of the leak
- How bad it is
In case the leak originates from the wall or the roof, don’t try to fix it yourself. The best method is to contact a professional who is an expert, especially in this sector and close the leakage.
Otherwise, the water from the leakage can help grow molds and damp the wall, which is detrimental to both your house and your health.
If, on the other hand, the leakage is coming from the window, you might be able to repair it yourself. Use the suitable method for specific causes. For instance, if the problem is old caulking, remove it, clean the area well and install a new one.
If you are confused about the source of the problem, and the solutions mentioned above can’t help you, then it is high time you called a professional or replaced the window.
Types Of Casement Windows
In general, window companies provide three kinds of casement windows. They are-
- Single Frame casement windows
- French Casement Windows
- Push-Out Casement Windows
This classification is based on several things, including structure, features, and design. It is influenced by your personal preferences, financial constraints, and the architecture of your home too.
Let’s have a look at what these three types of casement windows offer and how they vary from one another-
- Single Frame Casement Windows
Single-frame casement windows are the most common among windows of this nature found in homes. They are based on a single frame, just like the name indicates.
In the frame, there’s a panel called “light.” The placement of the lights determines where the window is mounted, consistent with the design of the window. Especially if it is set up inwardly or outwardly. The lights are separated by the stripes in the glass.
Most homeowners like single-frame casement windows for the reason that, with a window like this, you can ventilate your room correctly without any risk.
Advantages:
- Durability.
- Proper ventilation system.
- Low cost.
- French Casement Windows
Placing French Casement Windows is just like a touch of French experience in your household. And guess what a combination of a french door on your home accompanied by the window will do. It will give your house a sophisticated look, just like a French aristocrat.
French Casement Windows are also known as double casement windows. The window is confided from both sides. You can ensure proper ventilation by swinging out the window.
However, installing a french casement window is more expensive than installing a single casement window.
Advantages:
- Low maintenance and easy to clean.
- Proper ventilation
- It can be used for emergency exits.
- Push-Out Casement Windows
In the casement window category, push-out casement windows are the lowest-ranked. It’s unlike any other casement window on the market. It operates by a handle rather than a crank, as some other devices do.
The best part of the window is that it has multiple locking systems. So you have nothing to worry about your security while using this sort of window in your house.
Advantages:
- Multiple locking options.
- Allow for complete air circulation.
- Easy to clean.
Conclusion
As casement windows are well ventilated, easy to handle and do not leak, they are a better choice for you in many ways. Most of the issues you might face with casement windows are prevalent in other types of windows too.
However, it’s always best to take professional advice about which windows you should use according to your house’s structure, location, and size.
