Opening Your Casement Windows in the Right Direction

If you’re already familiar with casement windows, then you know that they easily open by pivoting instead of sliding. This is why they are commonly placed in hard-to-reach areas such as behind the kitchen sink while also offering good security. As for the direction in which they open, it will mainly depend on a few factors that should be considered first if you’re planning to install new casement windows.


If you want to determine which direction you want your casement windows to open, here’s what we have to say:

Understand the Terminologies

To make an informed decision on which direction you prefer, you’ll need to understand the different terminologies used in window installation. For casement windows, they can be labeled either as a left-hand crank or a right-hand crank. This means the crank can be on either side of the window with the locking mechanism on the opposite side. Some casement windows will also be labeled as FCL or FCR, which refers to left-handed and right-handed windows respectively.

Deciding Which Direction They Should Open

Of course, there aren’t any set rules as to which side of your new casement windows should be hinged. This is because they can be installed in any direction depending on the style and utility. You can consult a reliable window company to know which direction is more convenient to your everyday use.


Other considerations can also include your dominant hand, especially for single casement window installations. Such windows are often installed in a bathroom or laundry area, and they tend to be easier to open if the crank is on the side of your dominant hand. Ventilation is also a big factor, and casement windows can easily facilitate cross-breezes through your home. But for this to happen, you’ll need to have the FCR and FCL casement windows on opposite sides of your home to help catch the breeze and allow air to move toward the other window.


Whether you need replacement windows or new-construction windows, you can count on Timberland Exteriors to provide superior craftsmanship and a laser-beam focus on the details that ensure a lifelong project. If you’re in Maplewood, MN, just give us a call at 651-439-1760. You may also fill out our online contact form to request an estimate.

Schedule Your

Free Estimate

Contact Us

Convenient Financing Options

We Make Quality Exterior Remodeling Affordable

Beige soffit and gutters on a brick house with a dark shingled roof against a blue sky.
August 15, 2025
When it comes to roof maintenance, most homeowners focus on shingles, flashing, or gutters. But two of the most critical—yet often overlooked—components are the soffit and fascia. These structural elements play a silent but vital role in maintaining your roof’s integrity, ventilation, and overall curb appeal.
A brick house with a gutter on the side of it
July 18, 2025
Gutters play a critical role in the overall health of your home, protecting both its exterior and the foundation. While they are often overlooked, regular gutter maintenance is essential to ensuring that your home remains safe, dry, and structurally sound.
A white house with black shutters on the windows
June 10, 2025
Getting an instant roof quote can save you time and give you a clearer picture of what to expect when it comes to costs.
May 12, 2025
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, providing protection from the elements and maintaining the integrity of your living space.
Two men are working on the roof of a house.
April 30, 2025
A roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. It keeps you protected from the elements and plays a critical role in the overall integrity of your house.
A group of people are standing in front of a house under construction.
May 8, 2024
Preparing your home for a roof installation is a crucial step to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Taking the time to get your home ready can significantly impact the efficiency and success of your roofing project.
A person is opening a window with a white handle.
April 26, 2024
In today’s environment-conscious market, energy-efficient windows have become a core component of home improvement projects, particularly in areas known for their harsh climates, such as Maplewood, MN.
A large white house with a black roof and red shutters
April 22, 2024
As the remnants of winter melt away and the first blooms of spring start gracing us in Maplewood, MN, it’s a signal for many homeowners to start contemplating home improvement projects that were put on hold during the colder months.
A blue house with white trim and a window
April 19, 2024
In the picturesque landscapes of Maplewood, MN, a home’s exterior is the visual handshake it extends to the neighborhood. Maintaining and enhancing the curb appeal of your property is crucial, not only for fostering a sense of pride but also for augmenting the value of your home.
Roof replacement
April 15, 2024
For homeowners in Maplewood, MN, and the surrounding areas, making decisions about roofing can be daunting. There’s a widespread practice known as a “roof-over,” where a new layer of shingles is installed over the existing one, which might seem cost-effective at first glance.
Show More