Are you wondering if casement windows come with screens? If so, you’ve landed on the right page. We've researched this question to find the answer and we're happy to share it with you now.
Casement windows do not have screens but you can install them on your window to keep pollutants, insects, and other animals away.
Keep on reading to learn more about casement window screens, their pros and cons, how to install them on your window, and how to remove these screens when you need to. Let's get started!
The screen on casement window?
Casement windows are one of the most common window types used in houses. Their simple design makes them versatile and easy to match on the exterior and interior of most homes.
These windows have hinges on the sides and they swing outward. They open all the way from the top to the bottom which allows more light and air to enter the room.
However, this becomes problematic for some homes. When they are exposed to different pollutants like dirt and dust, these will easily make their way inside the house. That's why having screens will help a lot to filter these unwanted particles.
Screens are meshes made of metal, plastic wires, or fiberglass. These are stretched over a metal or wood frame for support.
However, screens are not originally part of a standard casement window. This window has very basic components - the window frame and casement or sash. In other words, if you want to have a screen, you need to have it installed. It is optional so you have the choice to get one or not.
Some people think that it's not possible to put a screen over a casement window since it opens outward. But there's a workaround here.
Unlike other windows where the screen protector is placed outside, the screen on a casement window is installed inside. Since the casement or sash is pushed outward, having the screen inside gets it out of the way and still makes it possible for you to enjoy the benefits of a window screen. It'll also be protected from the elements.
These screens are available in different sizes. There are hinged wood screens with high transparency mesh, a retractable screen, and a stationary casement window screen.
Think about the right screen to use for your casement window as this will affect the amount of light that enters the house and determine whether you can use a window treatment over it or not.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of putting a screen over your casement window?
There's a reason why these screens are optional. It gives homeowners the choice if they find these screens useful or not.
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of installing screens on your casement windows.
Pros
Window screens help keep insects out while you're enjoying the fresh breeze. Insects such as ticks, mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches can carry diseases, some of which can even be deadly.
Since casement windows open wide, the screen will also prevent bigger animals such as bees, wasps, raccoons, and bats from getting inside your house. Trust us, you wouldn't want any of these in your room. They have venom and rabies that'll make you sick.
Screens are also helpful in filtering outside dirt and dust so that they won't make it inside your home. They also trap allergens, pollen, and some carcinogens.
Therefore, screens help make your home cleaner and healthier.
Cons
Some say that window screens protect windows, especially glass panes, from damage due to external factors such as flying debris due to extreme weather conditions. But given their soft nature, they don't really provide much support. However, they can help soften the impact and reduce the damage to the window surface.
Take note also that we're talking about casement windows here. Even if the screens are hinged, they don't have any backbone to prop them up when there's an impact. So, don't expect these screens to give adequate protection to your windows.
Be advised that putting screens over your windows can reduce the amount of light that enters your room. They will darken the room a bit.
When they sit on the interior side of the window, kids and pets can touch them and get themselves dirty when the screens have accumulated too much dirt.
As such, these screens require frequent maintenance. You need to clean them regularly so that they won't add to the dirt and contaminants in your house.
Now that you know the pros and cons of having a casement window screen, you can weigh whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and if they suit your needs at home.
How to Install Screens on Casement Windows
Putting screens in your casement windows is so easy, you can do it by yourself. They don't require any special tools. All you need is the new screen panel that you'll be installing. The screen has two wing blades or clips that help secure it in its position on the window.
Here's how to install it.
- Get the dimensions of the interior side of your window to get the right screen size.
- Some screens have hinges so you need to specify where the hinges should be - left or right. But if you prefer a stationary casement screen, there's no need for this.
- Confirm that the screen that you purchased is the right fit for your window.
- Check the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding.
- Now, you're ready to begin installing the screen in your window.
- Look for the wing blades or clips on the screen. They shouldn't be engaged yet. Release if they are. If it has wing blades, they should point towards the screen's center.
- Position the screen on the interior side of the window. The manufacturer can put arrows or labels so that you'll know the right orientation of the screen. For example, for Andersen insect screens, manufacturers instruct users to put the part of the screen with the warning label at the bottom side.
- Set the screen against the window.
- Press the screen against the window until you hear the clips engage.
- For those with wing blades, start on the lock side first working your way around the rest of the window stops. Make sure that the screen sits on the window properly before you snap the wing blades in place.
Here is a video of how to install an Andersen insect screen on a casement window for your reference.
There you go! You now have a screen in your casement window and enjoy its benefits.
How to Remove the Screen in a Casement Window
There are times when you would want to remove the screen from your casement window. It could be for cleaning, or replacement, or you simply want to have a clearer view of your outdoor area and let more sunshine in. Some manufacturers offer retractable and removable screens so that you have the option to put them back on just when you need them.
Luckily, it's so easy to remove the screen. Just follow these steps.
- Locate the pull tabs at the side of the screen.
- Put one hand over the screen to support it.
- Pull the tabs to release the screen from its position. Do one side first.
- Pull the tabs toward the other side.
- Gently pull the screen towards you.
Remember, the screen is delicate so be extra careful when handling it. Do not remove it from its place forcefully. Wait for the clips or springs to unlock before you take them off.
When cleaning the screen, use only low-pressure water. You can put it directly under the tap or use a spray hose to clean the mesh. Do not use a pressure washer as it can damage the material. Should there be any stubborn dirt, you can use soapy water and scrub it gently using a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before putting it back on your window.
Final Thoughts
Screens are a useful addition to your casement window. While they might reduce the light that enters your house, they will help keep your home clean and healthy, which should be every homeowner's priority.
For window decorating ideas, feel free to click the following links:
Living Room Curtain Ideas For Small Windows – 17 Ideas You Will Love!
Curtain Ideas For 3 Windows Side-By-Side And How To Hang Them For The Best Look!