Greenville, South Carolina, was incorporated in 1831. With almost two centuries of history, there are several neighborhoods across the city with historic homes. From the Hampton-Pickney District to the Overbrook Historic District, there are several neighborhoods across the city with beautiful, unique homes that require specialized updates to maintain their style.
If you’re considering upgrading the windows on your home in one of Greenville’s historic districts, you may be on the fence about whether casement or double-hung windows are right. Each option offers unique advantages and drawbacks, and it is essential that you take time to consider this information before making a decision for your space.
If you’re preparing to purchase new windows for your historic home and you’re unsure whether casement or double-hung windows are right, keep reading.
How Casement and Double-Hung Windows Differ
Before you begin the window installation process, it is crucial that you understand the key differences between casement and double-hung windows. The biggest difference between these windows is their operation. However, there are a few other differences, including the following:
| Casement Windows | Double-Hung Windows | |
| Operation & Airflow | These windows operate on a crank system, opening outward. This allows for 100% opening and maximum airflow. | These windows slide up or down on a track, letting you open it simultaneously for the best air circulation. |
| Energy Efficiency | Casement windows press tightly against their frame when closed via a hook-and-lever mechanism, creating airtight compression. | These windows feature weatherstripping, but there is still a risk of air leakage because there are more moving parts. |
| Maintenance | If you want to clean these windows, you will either have to reach outside of the window or go outside to reach the glass. | Double-hung windows typically tilt inward, allowing you to clean the interior and exterior from inside your room. |
| Placement | Because they swing outward, they will need exterior clearance or they will block spaces like walkways, paths, and decks. | They operate entirely within their own plane, making them the ideal window choice near walkways, pushes, trees, and patios. |
Why Double-Hung Windows Work Well in Historic Greenville Homes
When upgrading your historic home, you want to ensure you’re choosing a window style that is authentic to your home’s style. The best way to do this is by determining which style was popular when your home was built. For homes built around the 19th century, like those in Hampton-Pickney and the West End, double-hung windows are the ideal choice.
These windows match the traditional proportions of Victorian, Craftsman, and Queen Anne style homes. You won’t have to worry about altering the historic facade of your home when installing these windows on your property. Instead, you can easily slot these windows into the existing openings without much concern about major exterior changes.
Beyond their aesthetics, these windows also allow for ample ventilation for those who are prioritizing comfort. The functional top sash allows homeowners to remove warm air, while the bottom sash can draw in cooler air. Whether you’re concerned about climate control or aesthetics, double-hung windows are the ideal solution for your Greenville historic home.
When Casement Windows Are the Better Choice
Although casement windows aren’t the most authentic to some historic home styles in the Greenville area, there are a few situations in which they are the better choice. Homeowners who have a Tudor, Craftsman, or early colonial cottage may be able to incorporate casement windows into their home without compromising on its style.
Additionally, if you are looking for the most energy efficient window or an option that offers increased ventilation possibilities, this may make casement windows more appealing than double-hung windows. With their tight seal against their weatherstripping, these windows far outperform their sliding counterparts.
It is important to consider the tradeoffs though. You will need to ensure there is ample clearance outside of the windows, and that they won’t interfere with outdoor spaces. Additionally, the open sash is more prone to damage during high winds. Finally, some historic review boards may not allow this choice, so it is essential that you check with them before making upgrades.
What You Should Know Before Making Upgrades to Your Historic Home
While your energy efficiency goals are incredibly important when upgrading your old windows, it is still incredibly important to match your home’s historic style. In many cases, historic homeowners cannot simply make updates to their home that will impact their exterior without approval from their local historic review board.
The Greenville Historic Review Board has developed a design guideline to help preserve each district’s unique appearance. If you are planning to replace the windows on your historic home, it is best to reach out to the board for their support. They can help you find the ideal replacements without compromising the appearance of your property.
Without approval from the board, there is a risk that you’ll face legal penalties, fines, and stop-work orders. This can lead to costly pauses in your project and far more money spent than you originally budgeted for. If you want to protect yourself and your home, it is essential that you reach out to the board as soon as possible for support.
Choosing the Right Windows for Greenville’s Climate
In addition to choosing windows that match your home’s historic style, it is equally important that you find windows that are equipped to stand up to Greenville’s climate. The city deals with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and humidity throughout the year. Choosing the wrong windows for your historic home can lead to major discomfort during inclement weather conditions.
Consider talking to your window installation team about their double- or triple-pane window options, low-E coatings, and other energy efficient upgrades. With these more advanced windows installed on your property, you can match the exterior style of your home, increase everyday comfort, and avoid problems during storm season.
While it might seem like a less important factor, choosing windows that match your historic home’s style while protecting you from poor weather conditions makes all the difference. Ultimately, it is important that you try to avoid making compromises when looking for an energy-efficient, climate-smart choice for your property.
Let Surface Bella Deliver Your Beautiful New Windows
Whether casement or double-hung windows are right for your home, our Surface Bella team is here to support you through every step of the installation. With years of experience helping homeowners across Greenville find their ideal window solutions, we’re confident that we can do the same for you. From the moment we arrive until our team leaves, we’re committed to providing you with expert support.
If you would like to schedule a consultation to begin discussing casement or double-hung windows for your historic home, contact us today.