Discovering the perfect window coverings for Honolulu homeowners is probably our favorite part of working in interior design and fashion. And few styles of windows come with the same design challenge as do casement windows. As opposed to typical sliding windows, casement windows are attached with hinges on one or multiple sides, and so they swing in and out to open and shut.
Because they open in a different way from most other windows, they need a slightly unique approach when choosing the perfect window treatment. Let’s break down how to choose your perfect casement window treatment.
Casement Window Treatment Priorities
When selecting a window treatment for your casement window, try to keep these items in mind.
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Ease of use - Whether your casement window operates by a crank or lever, you need to be able to easily open and shut your window without the annoyance of a window treatment getting in the way.
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Fitting your window depth - Various casement windows will have varying depths between your wall and the window itself, so some window treatments may not fit the space.
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Coverage - Unlike sliding windows which usually can only open halfway, nearly all casement windows are able to open all the way. A large range of light control will let you achieve an ideal amount of light without forfeiting the effective ventilation that casements give you.
Recommended Casement Window Treatment Options
So what’s the ideal window covering for Honolulu casement windows? Since there can be some differences between various casement windows (hinge position, window jamb depth, and so forth), it’s good to set up an in-home consultation so a window treatment professional can help you find your own best fit.
Knowing that, these 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 is hinged at the top (known as an “awning”), the bottom (a “hopper”), or one of the sides, plantation shutters can be fit to match the way in which your window operated. That also makes certain that your shutters don’t block the opening mechanism, whether it’s by lever or handle, and can fit either directly into your window jamb or attached above them so the depth of your window isn’t an issue.
Shutters can be put in around the opening of the window to ensure full operation of the opening mechanism. As a bonus, you won’t have to worry about dangling material blowing in the wind or being left exposed when you want your window open.
Finally, shutters let you into a whole new world of coverage options for your window. Say you wish to have a good amount of fresh air circulating in your room, but want to keep the light level low. Just open your casement window, but set your shutter louvers partially open so that you can your ideal brightness and circulation. That amount of control is only achievable with plantation shutters.
Shades
A less sophisticated option compared to shutters, shades offer chic looks and an effective framing to your window, without blocking the casement opening mechanism. Due to the fact that shades are always installed over the frame, there’s no need to consider which direction the window opens or the window depth. Shades can easily be pulled up when the window opens, so your view and airflow stay unobstructed.
Both cellular shades and roman shades look stylish on casement windows while providing great light control.
Other Window Treatments For Casements
As we’ve mentioned, casement windows can differ in multiple ways, so there might be other window treatments that work just as well for your house. To find out more about your window treatment options, call Sunburst Shutters Honolulu at
808-797-2004 today to schedule up your free in-home design consultation.