Understanding Casement Window Hardware

Casement windows have been an architectural staple for centuries, offering aesthetic charm and functional benefits. Hinged at the side, these windows swing outwards like doors, allowing ample fresh air into your home. Contemporary casement windows feature integrated hardware such as cranks and pivots. Traditional designs, however, employ distinct components: butt hinges for swinging open, a latch for security, a sash hold to maintain the desired opening position, and, occasionally, a surface bolt for added security at the top. These elements collectively contribute to the unique character of casement windows.

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If you're restoring vintage casement windows or creating new ones in a traditional style, selecting the right hardware is crucial. Basic requirements like hinges, latches, and stays are a given, but there are many options to consider. This guide will help you find everything you need for your casement windows to look and function perfectly.

Casement Window Hinges

Casement window hinges are essentially smaller versions of the butt hinges used on doors throughout most homes. Typically made of brass or powder-coated iron with non-rusting stainless-steel pins, these hinges are designed for durability. The removable hinge pins allow the sash to be detached from the frame for painting or maintenance.

As most casement windows swing outward, the hinge barrel is visible from the outside, while the hinge leaves are only visible when the window is open. Some prefer the hinge finish to align with exterior hardware, while others match it to the interior casement stays and latches. Both choices are valid and depend on personal preference.

Standard Butt Hinges

The most common type of hinge for casement windows is the 2.5" x 2.5" butt hinge. These compact hinges often require three units for taller sashes. Available in both plain and decorative styles, including ball or steeple tips, they offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Parliament Hinges

Parliament hinges are uniquely "H" shaped and ideal for homes with brick or stone veneers, or deeply inset windows. The elongated hinge leaves extend the pivot point to the outer edge of the window frame, allowing the casement to swing clear of the trim and lie flat against the wall.

Casement Stays

Casement stays are essential for keeping your windows securely in place, whether open or closed. They include a pivoting rod attached to the sash and a post (or posts) mounted to the sill. This setup allows you to adjust how wide the window opens. When closed, the casement stay ensures the sash remains snug against the frame, preventing drafts and warping.

Lift-Off Casement Stays

This traditional style features a perforated rod held by two sill-mounted posts. The rod hinges in two directions and can be lifted to disengage the posts, allowing you to set the window opening width. The rod can be entirely detached from the posts, making it easy to open the window fully - an advantage for emergency egress.

Sliding Casement Stays

Unlike lift-off stays, the rod in sliding casement stays passes through an opening in the post and is tightened in place with a knurled knob. This feature allows for completely adjustable window opening widths rather than fixed positions, making it a popular choice.

Friction Casement Stays

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These modern sash holds operate without a knob. The flat rod slides into a sleeve, creating friction that holds the window open at any point between zero and ninety degrees. Sleek and understated, they are ideal for modern interiors.

Casement Latches

Mounted centrally on the sash, a casement latch serves two purposes: securing the window and acting as a handle for opening and closing. There are three primary types of casement latches, each with its own advantages and best-use scenarios. Most latches come with multiple strike options - mortise, surface, and extended - to suit various window frame configurations. Styles vary from classic traditional to sleek contemporary, ensuring there's something to complement every home.

Horizontal Handle Latches

This classic style features a substantial lever handle that is easy to grasp and operate. Available in various sizes, it’s perfect for individuals with grip issues.

Vertical Handle Latches

Vertical handle latches typically project less than horizontal levers. Their low profile makes them suitable for windows with blinds or shutters mounted within the frame. Some models have handles that sit flat and rotate against the sash, while others feature pendant-style handles that lift and rotate to disengage the latch.

Ring Handle Latches

This unique style was popular in the 1920s and 30s. Smaller in profile and projection, it's an excellent choice for tight spaces or when a less-conspicuous latch is desired. Note that inserting a finger into the ring is not necessary for operation.

Casement Window Slide Bolts

Slide bolts are an essential addition for many casement windows. Typically mounted at the top of the sash, they provide a third point of security alongside the casement stay at the bottom and the latch in the middle. By holding the sash firmly in place, these bolts prevent bowing - particularly important for tall windows or those directly exposed to rain. The bolt should be long enough for easy operation from a standing position. Due to their vertical installation, slide bolts come equipped with an internal tension spring to prevent slipping.

Slide bolts are also vital for pairs of windows that open together without a central support. Much like double doors, one window must be fixed in place with bolts on top and bottom to allow the other window to close and latch against it.

Cremone Bolts for Casement Windows

Cremone bolts offer a single-piece alternative to the traditional combination of a sash stay, latch, and slide bolt. Originating in 18th century France, this device features a pair of rods controlled by a handle positioned in the middle of the window. Turning the handle simultaneously moves the rods up and down, engaging or disengaging the window within the frame. Ideal for paired windows that close together without a center support, they also work well on individual sashes, cabinet doors, and furniture. Cremone bolts add a touch of elegance and old-world charm to your home, a common feature in older European architecture.

Which direction should casement windows face? Is there a general consensus on where the hinges should be placed?

• Should the open window catch the prevailing breezes?
• Or should it not?
• Should all windows on one side of a house face the same direction?
• Should it be a random decision?

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