When it comes to window replacement these days, the possibilities are endless. As well as being able to select the frame colour, style and finish that best suits your property type, you have a vast choice of glazing options and hardware accessories. The sheer choice available now can make the process of buying windows an absorbing challenge. Everyone’s tastes, needs, and budget are different. To make matters worse, you also have a choice of an open in or open out mechanism. The question is – which one is right for you?
Should I stick with tradition?
Traditionally, casement windows tend to open outwards. There are several reasons why this has been the favoured direction for a number of years. Open out windows are thought to provide better weatherproofing capabilities than open in windows, a fact that makes them particularly popular in cold, wet British and northern European climates. In addition to this, open out windows are more secure than the open in alternative. For more window security tips, please read our guide to basic door and window security.
Why inward opening windows work
Choosing open in windows isn’t just about going against tradition. Open in windows offer a number of advantages for British homes. Open in windows tend to have a more contemporary finish, and a cleaner appearance that complements the aesthetics of modern properties. When the windows are opened, this modern appearance is enhanced further as the design’s hidden vent look keeps all hinges and other hardware tucked away inside the window and out of sight.
Owners of homes with inward opening windows have also reported that their windows are easier to clean. You don’t have to mount a ladder or hang out of the window to give exterior glazing a good and thorough clean. There are some downsides to inward opening windows, though. Certain window dressings, such as blinds, for example, cannot be closed when an open in window is open.
Inward opening windows are also thought to provide improved ventilation, aiding the creation of cross breezes and the flow of cool air. Good ventilation is integral in homes and can unlock a variety of benefits for the individuals within, as explained here by AXA:
“The average person breathes in 12,000 litres of air a day (that’s the equivalent of 150 bathtubs full). Good ventilation ensures that the air you breathe contains lots of vital oxygen, and removes indoor air pollutants like cooking odours, smoke, and carbon dioxide. This is particularly important if members of your family suffer from breathing problems like bronchitis and asthma, or have certain allergies. A well-ventilated home can also have a positive effect on your mentality, with poor air quality having previously been shown to impair concentration levels.”
Which is right for me?
There are pros and cons to both of the window opening options we’ve explored in this blog post. As there are no set rules, your choice of open in or open out windows is entirely down to your preferences. There are a few factors you should consider before making your decision. The aesthetics of your finished look will be impacted by your choice, whilst the ventilation capabilities of each also differ.
Need help to decide whether open in or open out windows are right for you? Our team is here to provide honest, transparent advice. Call or email us today for guidance.