Finding the perfect window covering solution for Minneapolis homeowners is probably our favorite part of working in interior design and fashion. And few styles of windows offer the same design obstacle as do casement windows. Unlike normal sliding windows, casement windows are attached with hinges on one or more sides, and so they swing in and out to open and close.
Since they operate differently from most other windows, they require a somewhat unique approach when pairing with a window treatment. Let’s break down how to choose a great casement window treatment.
Priorities for Casement Window Treatments
When choosing a window covering for your swinging window, keep these qualities in mind.
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Ease of operation - No matter if your casement window operates by a crank or lever, you need to be able to easily open and shut your window without the hassle of a window treatment getting in the way.
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Fitting the depth of your window - Various casement windows may have differing depths between your wall and the window itself, so some window treatments may not fit the space.
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Coverage - While sliding windows can typically only open partway, just about all casement windows will be able to open all the way. That range of light control will allow you achieve a perfect level of light without forfeiting the great ventilation that casements give you.
Recommended Casement Window Coverings
So what’s the right window treatment for Minneapolis casement windows? Since there can be some differences between various casement windows (hinge position, window jamb depth, and beyond), it’s best to set up an in-home consultation so a window treatment professional can help match you with your home’s best fit.
Knowing that, here 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 your casement swings from the top (known as an “awning”), the bottom (a “hopper”), or one of the sides, plantation shutters can be custom-built to match the direction your window opens. That also makes certain that the shutter won’t interfere with the opening mechanism, whether it’s by crank or lever, and can fit either directly into your window jamb or on top of them so your window depth isn’t an issue.
Shutters can be put in around the opening of the window to ensure full use of the opening mechanism. Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about hanging material blowing in the wind or being left exposed when you need your window open.
Lastly, shutters open up a huge world of coverage options for your window. Say you need to circulate a lot of fresh air into your space, but don’t want a lot of light. Just open your casement window, but set your shutter louvers partially open so that you can your perfect level of fresh air and light. That level of control is only achievable with plantation shutters.
Shades
A more minimal option relative to shutters, shades offer stylish looks and an effective framing to your window, without getting in the way of the casement opening mechanism. Since shades are always installed above the frame, there’s no need to worry about what direction the window is hinged or the window depth. Shades can easily be pulled up when the window opens, so your view and airflow remain unobstructed.
Cellular shades as well as roman shades look stylish on casement windows while giving you great light control.
Other Casement Window Treatments
As we’ve mentioned, casement windows can vary in multiple ways, so there can be other window coverings that function just as well for your house. To find out more about your window treatment options, call Sunburst Shutters Minneapolis at
952-856-8130 today to schedule up a free window design consultation.