How can I get windows that open like doors?

Wfl32444738
by Wfl32444738

We need new windows and want ones that swing open instead of slide up and down. Window measures 52w x 72h, can french doors be used as windows on the front of the house? Are there other alternatives?

Thanks in advance icon

  7 answers
  • Dwp7470b Dwp7470b on Jul 23, 2018

    No, you cannot use a door as a window:

    a door by any other name is yet a door

    Yes, they do sell these windows that open like shutters, but often these are crank open styled even when you do find them.

    Yet I want to say this much: you are likely better off putting in french doors, anyhow, as an exit to a future patio or deck or porch or steps to a garden.

  • Dde32573296 Dde32573296 on Jul 23, 2018

    My suggestion: don't do it. I have those type of windows and I hate them. You don't get a breeze at all when open.

  • Russbow Russbow on Jul 23, 2018

    I have them through out the house, they work just fine and I would do it again. House built in 84, and remodeled in 08, but used the same type windows. Love em.

  • William William on Jul 23, 2018

    Casement windows are available in all sizes or can be custom ordered to fit .

  • Kc Kc on Jul 23, 2018

    I love it when someone thinks outside the box!!! I think you have a wonderful idea.

    Casement windows swing out on crank arms for a few reasons and safety is a very important one. It keeps a possible glass sail from getting out of control.

    A serious negative issue I can think of when operating your door/window idea involves safety. If you opened your french door/window in windy conditions and it caught in a strong gust while you were holding on it could pull you out of the opening. Retrieving your door/window to close it means leaning out of the opening- again a safety issue.

    You could improve safety by adding railing in the window opening.

    You can install the your french door windows so they swing in but you loose indoor space. (An in-swing allows for bug screens though.)

    I think you have a viable plan but I'm just the cheerleader. Bounce your idea off some professionals..more than one or two so you can really understand the concept.



  • Suelane Suelane on Jul 23, 2018

    I have the crank out windows in my living room and am not a fan. To clean them on the inside I have to remove the screen first. And like Dde said, they aren't good for a breeze. I do like my new horizontal sliders that I got to replace some old ones; they can open at both sides (left and right) and flip in to clean. Plus the new windows are more energy efficient.


    Good luck, Wfl - windows can be a big purchase so be sure of what you want before you order them.

  • Wfl32444738 Wfl32444738 on Jul 24, 2018

    Thanks to all for the info, ideas and insight! The Hometalk community really is great group to help work through project ideals and/or snags. 👍