Casement vs Sliding Windows: Which Is Better for Singapore Homes?

Windows aren’t just openings on the wall. They define the entire atmosphere of the house, how the room brightens up, how the fresh air enters the room, and how quiet is the room. In Singapore, where the climate can change rapidly from hot and humid to noisy and rainy, selecting a perfect window is not just about how it looks. It’s about the comfort and usefulness that you receive from the window.

So question is, should you choose casement windows or sliding windows?

Casement windows are windows that you turn the handle and push forward to swing open the window panels. These windows are supported by fraction arms. They’re great if you like strong airflow. When you open them fully, they catch the wind like sails and push fresh air through the room. That’s why many older HDBs still have them — they work. Perfect for bedrooms, kitchens, or any space that needs ventilation fast.

But casement windows need enough clearance. In many HDB service yards, casement windows cannot open fully as they are blocked by the clothes drying racks. Also for HDB corridor units, you are not allowed to install casement windows for your living room and bedroom if they are facing the corridor. This is to prevent accidents from happening, there may be someone passing by when you push out to open your windows. On windy days, strong wind can also push and close the casement windows if the friction arms are not strong enough.

Sliding windows are smooth, practical, and tidy. They move side to side on a track, so nothing sticks out. You just push one panel over the other easily. They are common in BTO flats and newer condos. They can blend well with the interior design of the home, and also let in lots of natural light. During heavy rain they will stay close, you will never have to worry about a panel swinging open or hitting something outside in case of strong wind.

Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that sliding windows can only be half-open, they cannot be ‘fully opened’ as compared to casement windows, so there is less air ventilation. But sliding windows make up for their faults by being user-friendly and requiring low maintenance. Just make sure that you keep the tracks clean and they will serve you well for years to come without giving you a headache.

Casement windows are closed by pushing the frame firmly against them. The turning of the handle (to lock the window) also pulls the sash in, compressing the rubber gasket all around the edge. Therefore casement windows are able to seal tighter and thus prevent noise from entering the small voids.

On the other hand, sliding windows are designed to move along a track. The overlapping window frames do not press tight against one another like casement windows when closed. Even a tiny gap between the panels will allow sound to pass through, and that is usually enough for you to hear the noise outside from people and vehicles. Sliding windows are designed for convenience purpose, not for total acoustic performance.

There isn’t a single type of window that fits all homes in Singapore.
If you love fresh air, strong ventilation & quieter place, then casement windows are the best choice.
If you have limited space or prefer simpler look or easier maintenance, then sliding windows would be a better fit for you.

You may also consider having the two types of windows in your home. For example, in HDB units, sliding windows for your living room and bedroom facing the corridor, and casement windows for the master bedroom and kitchen.

Please visit our windows page to see our casement and sliding windows.

Windows used to be just a part of the house, but now they are an important part of your life - the first thing you open in the morning and the last thing you close at night. Whether it is a casement or a sliding window, the most important thing is how it suits your lifestyle and habits. How do you want to utilize your rooms? Would you like to have more fresh air or more quietness? Would you prefer to have large opening view of the outside or a clean, quiet look?

You can't go wrong with any of them, they are the ones that make your house feel like home.