Windows are one of the essential parts of every house. One major worry that plagues the mind of every homeowner is the type of window to use.

We have researched the market and concluded that Ecoline Sliding Windows are the middle ground for many Canadian homeowners. However, you might be curious why sliders are so popular if there are many other great window styles available, especially those traditional crank styles. Let’s find out!

Sliding Windows: what are they?

Sliding windows contain sashes that slide horizontally or vertically in a single frame. While the horizontal sliding windows are more popular, some homeowners fancy the vertical sliding window.

Single-hung and double-hung windows are typical examples of vertical sliding windows. The only thing that separates these two types is the presence of movable panels. Therefore, a single-hung window can only open one sash, but a double-hung window can open from the top or bottom.

Crank Windows: what are they?

Crank windows (casement windows) have one or more hinges that connect them to the frame. When you rotate the crank handle, they open to the outside. Casement windows have a straightforward design. You have a glass panel with a structure that extends similarly to a door. The casement window frame is tied to a hinge, so you can crank it open or shut. Some of these windows have internal and outward openings, while the majority only have an outer opening.

Making A Decision

Would you prefer to slide a sash open or crank your window open or closed by turning a handle? Part of the factors for selection is the amount of space available for the window and the purpose of the window since casement and sliding windows frequently fit better in somewhat different spaces.

 

While you are pondering that, here are the pros and cons of both window styles to help your decision-making process more straightforward.

Pros of Sliding Windows

  • Ease: Sliders glide along the track and thus are effortless to operate even with one hand.
  • Cost: Standard sliding windows usually cost less in comparison to other major styles.
  • Size: Sliding windows are available in every dimension: large, small, broad, and tall. So, you don’t have to worry much about finding a window to fit your window size.
  • Maintenance: Sliding windows are easy to clean and maintain even after many years.
  • Ventilation: gliders allow excellent unrestricted airflow.
  • Space: Sliding windows, unlike casement windows, are ideal for situations where you don’t want an extruding window. They slide on a track and do not take up any more space.

Cons of Sliding Windows

  • Sliding windows may not seal properly. If you reside in a cold, windy region, wind may get in even when the window is locked. Also, during winter, the sliding track may fill up with snow making it impossible to slide the window open.
  • The sliding track is prone to accumulating dirt over time, making it more challenging to open and close the window. If you live in a dusty area or along dusty roads, the tracks may need to be cleaned or flushed with water frequently.
  • Sliding windows are sometimes affected by height restrictions. Horizontal rather than vertical orientations are better for slider windows. They work well in wider openings rather than tall and narrow openings.
  • Due to the window gap, the windows may rattle in a storm or when a truck rumbles along the road.
  • Ventilation is partly restricted because only one-half of the window opens completely.

Pros of Casement Windows

  • Ventilation: Casement windows, more than any other window style, provide optimum ventilation.
  • Maintenance: Casement windows are typically a suitable choice in terms of care due to their design. They are simpler to open, close, and clean since they are cranked open rather than slid up, down, or sideways. This means you can incorporate it into your daily cleaning routine without having to dedicate time to clean them outside.
  • Unobstructed view: With casement windows, you will have a clear picture of the outside of your house, plenty of ventilation, and natural light will filter in through the windows.
  • Security: Burglars are kept out of the house thanks to the casement window’s handle-type mechanism. Even if they manage to smash the glass, they will be unable to enter your home since they will need to use the crank or lever to do so. Some homeowners remove the opening mechanism from casement windows for better security when they are not used to improve the window’s security.

Cons of Casement Windows

  • Your casement window mechanism can be damaged if the crank is operated incorrectly.
  • While new casement windows are a tremendous deterrent to robbers, they can rust, and the opening mechanism can break down over time, making them an obvious target for would-be intruders.
  • Casement windows are typically more expensive than other window types. However, the size, window material, and positioning all play a role. As a result, don’t make your final decision on windows just based on price.
  • Size also matters in the case of casement windows. They can’t be extremely wide due to the way they’re installed. They’re also unsuitable for window-mounted air conditioners since they swing-out.

Sliding vs Cranks Windows: Pricing

Of course, the price comes first when making a decision of which window to go for. Since getting new units is a long-term investment, you should not pick the cheapest option. Here is a table that represents the price comparison if you want to but sliders or crank windows. Keep in mind that it is for reference only since your final quote will be made of different aspects such as frame, glazing, hardware and additional add-ons. For more precise quotes, contact your local window company.

Location Casement Awning Single Slider Single Hing
Basement $535 – $1,022 $471 – $1114 $394 – $1057 n\a
Bathroom $446 – $1,032 $432 – $943 $394 – $1033 $95 – $1500
Bedroom $444 – $1193 $893 – $909 $437 – $1521 $587 – $2115
Bonus room $676 – $1134 $494 – $944 $820 – $1248 $634 – $1374
Dining room $550 – $1348 $843 – $1429 $669 – $1957 $529 – $1466
Family room $605 – $1999 $621 – $1157 $490 – $1131 $569 – $1155
Foyer $858 – $1999 n\a $465 – $778 $500 – $854
Front $583 – $1014 $483 – $1414 $785 – $968 $510 – $925
Garage n\a $703 – $902 $391 – $1085 $588 – $732
Kitchen $329 – $1356 $419 – $1471 $394 – $1595 $445 – $1595
Living room $484 – $1614 $485 – $1384 $433 – $2327 $429 – $1614
Master bedroom $545 – $1304 $588 – $1120 $452 – $1810 n\a
Nook $549 – $1149 $734 – $920 $658 – $1142 $473 – $1186

Choosing the right window for your home and needs is a personal decision. In terms of cost, sliding windows are less expensive than crank windows. However, consider other pros and cons outlined above before making your decision.