Cottage vs Casement Windows: Complete Style & Performance Guide

A cottage window is a specific style of casement window characterised by smaller proportions, multiple panes divided by glazing bars, and traditional ironmongery. All cottage windows are casement windows (they open on hinges), but not all casement windows are cottage-style. The term 'casement window' in modern usage usually refers to a single-pane design without glazing bars.

Yes, several manufacturers produce uPVC cottage-style windows with applied glazing bars, woodgrain foil finishes and traditional-look ironmongery. Prices range from £500-£800 per window. While not as authentic as timber, they offer a convincing cottage appearance with the low maintenance of uPVC. Some conservation areas accept them; others do not.

Slightly. Glazing bars typically reduce the glass area by 5-10%, which translates to a modest reduction in natural light. In practice, most homeowners do not notice the difference. The visual effect of the bars breaking up the glass can actually make a room feel more characterful and cosy rather than darker.

Traditional cottage window ironmongery includes peg stays (also called casement stays), cockspur handles or monkey-tail espagnolette handles, and pin hinges. Black or pewter finishes are most authentic for older cottages. For security, specify locking cockspur handles or espagnolette bolts with key-locking mechanisms. Avoid obviously modern chrome furniture on period cottages.

Cottage windows with through-glazing bars are slightly less thermally efficient than single-pane casements because the bars create additional thermal bridges. The difference is approximately 0.1-0.2 W/m²K in U-value. Cottage windows with applied bars (decorative strips on a single pane) match the thermal performance of standard casements because the sealed unit is identical.

Multi-pane cottage windows require more effort to clean due to the glazing bars. Each small pane must be cleaned individually, and the bars themselves accumulate dirt and cobwebs. Traditional squeegee methods work well, or use a small cloth and glass cleaner. If the windows open fully, cleaning both sides is manageable. For upper floors, consider windows that tilt inward or employ a window cleaner.

A flush casement sits flat within the window frame when closed, rather than overlapping the frame like a standard stormproof casement. Flush casements are the traditional construction method for cottage windows and are more authentic in appearance. Many modern window manufacturers now offer flush casement options in both uPVC and timber to meet demand for heritage-style windows.

Yes, applied glazing bars can be retrofitted to existing single-pane windows to create a cottage appearance. Kits are available for £30-£80 per window for DIY installation. While not as authentic as through-bars, they can significantly improve the period character of a property at minimal cost. Both internal and external bars should be fitted for a convincing effect.

Like-for-like replacements (matching the existing style, material and proportions) generally fall under permitted development. Changing from cottage-style to standard casement (or vice versa) may require planning permission in conservation areas. Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent for any window changes, including like-for-like replacements that use different materials.

Cottage windows are generally smaller than modern standard windows. Typical widths range from 600-900mm and heights from 800-1200mm, though this varies considerably depending on the age and style of the property. Some older cottages have very small windows (as little as 450mm wide) dictated by thick stone walls and limited historical glass sizes. Replacement windows are made to match the existing opening dimensions.