Strength and security are important factors to consider when replacing old windows or adding them to an extension. However, it’s important not to forget the functionality and aesthetics of the window. For example, you may be required to add a fire escape window to your property, or you might simply want to install windows that complement the existing character of your home.
It can be tough knowing what window style to go for, especially when you need to consider current building regulations, thermal efficiency and security features. French windows and casement windows are two practical options that allow lots of natural light into your home, however, they operate slightly differently.
Below, we compare key features of the Origin French Window with a standard left and right opening casement window.
French window
A French window should not be confused with a French door, although the mechanism is very similar. French Doors are full length and feature a door handle, whereas French windows are half length and have a different handle specifically manufactured for windows. French windows feature two panels of glass that are side hung and open either inward or outward, creating an uninterrupted view.
Casement window
Casement windows are side or top hung opening either inward or outward. Sometimes they can be fixed and sometimes top hung casement windows are referred to as awning windows.
Comparison between Origin French Window and Origin Casement Window
| Origin French Window | Origin Casement Window | |
| View | The Origin French Window can provide a completely unobstructed view as the mullion* (a vertical bar found between panes of glass in the window) isn't fixed. This means the window is able to open up entirely. Friction hinges also allow you to leave your French windows open as far as you like. | When there are two casement windows together and they are both open, the mullion remains at the centre of the opening. This results in a view that is obstructed by the mullion. |
| Security | Highly secure, the Origin French Window features shoot bolts, friction hinges and a unique 4-point locking system, fully integrated to support the moving mullion. The window is PAS24 certified and also features high grade stainless steel hinges. All of these parts fall under Origin's industry-leading guarantee. | The Origin Casement Window offers high grade stainless steel hinges, hinge guards, a Yale Encloser lock, locking handles and crimped frames. It's similarly a highly secure window - one of the most secure windows on the market today - PAS 24 certified and has been cycled tested to surpass residential window regulations. |
| Safety | Meeting current building regulations, the Origin French Window can be used as an emergency exit window. | Side or top hung casement windows that meet the minimum height and width requirements, according to current building regulations, can be used as emergency exit windows. |
| Configuration | Coming in just the one configuration, the French windows feature two panels that are side hung opening either inwards or outwards. | Casement windows come in a wide variety of configurations depending on your requirements. Fixed frame windows can also be added either side of your casement windows to provide more light and wider views. |
| Property suitability | A modern take on a traditional design, aluminium French windows can suit both old and new properties. Woodgrain finishes are also an option to colour match existing styles in older properties. | Suitable for both old and new properties, aluminium casement windows are versatile. Origin can provide all the aesthetics required for your property type, including woodgrain finishes, Georgian bars and over 150 RAL colours to suit your taste. |
| Strength | Made from premium grade aluminium for superior strength, Origin French Windows and Casement Windows are extremely strong yet weigh 67% less than steel. | |
| Thermal efficiency | Origin French Windows can achieve a U-Value of 0.8W/m²K with triple glazing and Aerogel. Find out more with our energy efficiency FAQs. | Origin Casement Windows can achieve a U-Value of 0.8W/m²K with triple glazing and Aerogel. |
| Lead times | 2 weeks for popular colours and 3 weeks for all other RAL colours. | The average lead time in the industry is 5-8 weeks. However, Origin offer a 'Your Lead Time, Not Ours' promise, meaning you can get your casement windows in as little as 24 hours depending on the colours and finishes you choose. |
| Colours | 150+ RAL colours available including woodgrain finish and dual colour options.Over 150 RAL colours as well as woodgrain finishes, matt and satin finishes and dual colour options. | |
| Sizes | All Origin products are entirely bespoke and custom made, meaning we make your windows to your specifications. Origin French Windows can be manufactured up to 1800mm wide and 1400mm tall. | Side hung casement windows can be manufactured up to 1000mm wide and 1800mm tall. Top hung casement windows can be manufactured up to 1500mm wide and 1500mm tall. |
| Guarantee | The average guarantee across the industry is 10 years. Origin offers an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20 years, which covers all hardware and components as well as the powder coating finish. | |
*a mullion is the white piece of aluminium profile found in the middle of the French window, which locks in with one of the panels to create an uninterrupted view when opened, as shown below.
