Casement windows are the most common style in British homes for good reason. They open wide, seal tightly and suit almost every kind of property, from a York period terrace to a country cottage. The range of uPVC casement window styles means you can keep a traditional look while getting modern warmth and low upkeep. Here is how the styles differ and which suits older homes best.
What a casement window is
A casement window is hinged at the side or top and swings open like a door, usually with a handle that throws multipoint locks into the frame. That is different from a sash window, which slides up and down. Casements are simple, reliable and seal well, which is why they are found in so many UK homes.
Within that basic idea there is plenty of variety, and the details are what make a casement suit a traditional home rather than a modern estate.
The main casement window styles
Flush casement
This is the style to know for traditional homes. On a flush casement, the opening sash sits flush within the frame, so the whole window has a flat, even face. That recreates the look of an old timber casement and suits period properties, cottages and conservation-sensitive homes. If you want a traditional look, this is usually the one.
Standard or lipped casement
On a standard casement, the opening sash sits slightly proud of the frame, with a small lip around it. It is the most common and often the most affordable style, and it works well on more modern homes and where budget matters most. Our casement windows in York come in both flush and standard styles.
Cottage casement with glazing bars
Add glazing bars to a flush casement and you get a cottage-style window divided into smaller panes, echoing the look of old windows. This suits older terraces and country homes especially well.
French casement
A French casement is a pair of side-hung sashes that open outwards from the middle with no fixed bar between them, giving a wide, clear opening. It suits homes where you want maximum opening and a traditional double-window look.
Layouts and opening options
Casements come in many layouts, and choosing the right one affects both looks and how the window works:
- Single opener: one hinged sash, simple and neat
- Side-by-side openers: two or more opening sashes for good ventilation
- Fixed and opening mix: a fixed pane beside an opener, common on larger windows
- Top openers over fixed lights: smaller opening sections above a large fixed pane, a classic traditional layout
For a traditional look, the proportions matter. Matching the layout to what the house originally had, or what similar homes nearby have, keeps the frontage looking right.
Colours and finishes for a traditional look
Casements come in a wide colour range, and colour does a lot of the work in making a window feel traditional:
- White for a clean, classic look
- Cream for a warmer, softer period feel
- Heritage green, sage and soft blue for cottages and stone homes
- Black and anthracite for a smart look that suits both modern and some period homes
- Woodgrain finishes that mimic painted or stained timber
Traditional handles, such as monkey-tail or pear-drop styles in a suitable finish, finish the look nicely.
Why uPVC casements suit traditional homes
Timber is the most authentic material, but it needs repainting and upkeep. Modern uPVC flush casements give a very convincing traditional look, especially with a woodgrain finish and the right glazing bars, and they need almost no maintenance. For many owners of traditional homes, that balance of appearance, warmth and low upkeep is exactly right. Our uPVC windows in York include heritage colours and flush styles designed for older properties.
Conservation areas and older homes
Much of York and many surrounding villages sit within conservation areas, and some homes are listed. That can restrict the window material, style, colour and glazing bars you are allowed to fit. The rules change and depend on the property, so always check the current position with your local authority before ordering. A good installer will help you understand what is likely to be acceptable.
Rough 2026 costs
Prices vary with the style, size, colour and glazing bars, so treat these as broad 2026 guides. A standard uPVC casement often lands somewhere around 450 to 900 pounds supplied and fitted, with flush casements, heritage colours and glazing bars adding a bit more. For a figure based on your windows, request a free quote and we will measure up.
FAQs
What is the difference between flush and standard casement windows?
On a flush casement, the opening sash sits flat within the frame for a traditional, even face. On a standard casement, the sash sits slightly proud with a small lip. Flush suits period homes, while standard is often more affordable.
Which casement window style suits a period home?
Flush casements suit period homes best, ideally in a heritage colour and with glazing bars where the house originally had divided panes. They recreate the look of old timber windows while adding modern warmth.
Are uPVC casement windows suitable for traditional houses?
Yes. Modern uPVC flush casements with woodgrain finishes and the right glazing bars give a convincing traditional look with almost no upkeep, which is why many owners of older homes choose them.
Do I need permission for new casement windows in a conservation area?
You might. Conservation area and listed building rules can restrict the style, material and colour of windows. Always check the current requirements with your local authority before ordering, as they change.
What is a French casement window?
A French casement is a pair of side-hung sashes that open outwards from the centre with no fixed bar between them, giving a wide, clear opening. It suits homes wanting maximum opening and a traditional double-window look.
Want to compare flush and standard styles, colours and layouts in one place? Download our latest brochure, or request a free quote and we will pop out for a look.