Cortizo Casement windows do what they say on the tin. Slim, contemporary with overlapping or flush casement design. Well-made and fitted Cortizo casement windows have today’s required styling and sightlines. This review focuses specifically on the outward opening wide and top hung windows. Their adaptability and elegant design make them an excellent choice for homeowners in dwelling as well as commecial property.
In producing this review, we’ve seen the window being made at Cortizo manufacturers, and in-situ in installer showrooms. We’ve also seen the product fitted in dwellings and apartment buildings.
Cortizo Casement Windows
Most European systems focus on inward opening tilt and turn windows. Cortizo designed the Casement Windows suite for the UK market. Slim profiles, modern design, good U-values triple glazed and PAS security tested. These should be considered as an alternative to Origin's OW-70, Alitherm windows and Aluk casements.
4
Pros
- The Cortizo brand name.
- Still unique in the UK Market.
- Slim overall sightlines.
- Does what it says on the tin.
Cons
- Get clarification on how it meets its U-Values.
- Not that many ancillary profiles.
- Not ideal in existing hardwood subframes.
What are Cortizo Casement Windows?
Cortizo Casement windows are extruded by Cortizo in Spain and manufactured in the UK, via a network of Cortizo-approved manufacturers, some of which also install.
With European systems typically having the better and more functional inward opening and tilt and turn systems, the UK market is slightly different with mostly outward opening windows. For this reason, Cortizo Casement Windows were designed specifically for the UK market.
You can use them to replace any dated metal, plastic or timber window and of course, they’re ideal for new homes, and general new build openings.
Design and Aesthetics
Cortizo Casement windows are characterised by their narrow sightlines and minimalist profiles, allowing for maximum glass areas and natural light.
Their flush casement option provides a symmetrical, clean aesthetic reminiscent of classic timber windows, while the aluminium construction ensures long-lasting durability. Available in a wide range of colours, finishes, and dual-colour options, they can be tailored to suit any architectural style.
As these windows are designed for the UK market and the needs of the fenestration industry, Cortizo has taken care to ensure the window is styled appropriately. And it does it rather well. Flatline profiles, narrow frames, the required 70mm front to back frame dimensions. The profiles are thermally insulated with a 32mm deep polyamide insulation with suitable foam inserts and profile chambers.
Available as top hung opening out (handle at the bottom) or side hung opening out (handles left or right), Cortizo Casement Windows will meet most design requirements, whether you’re replacing your old windows or need them for newly built openings.
Two window options are available, the conventional overlapping sash or a flush casement design. Assuming standard frames are used, the flush sightline is 79mm overall and 65mnmn with the overlapping frames. As always, beware the marketing language. Most windows will need a cill so add 32mm to your bottom frame dimension and they’ll invariably need trickle ventilation at the head, so you can add a further 20mm or even 38mm depending on your window design.
With Cortizo windows being up-to-date in their design, they have to meet today’s requirement for larger opening elements. As a result, they’re available with a heavy duty opening sash section. This does bulk up the sightlines somewhat, but does allow outward opening windows at larger sizes than other brands.
With this system being very flexible, the handles used can be up to the manufacturer, so there’s no set design here, as will be the friction hinges and any other accessories. But you can expect handles in a choice of colours and metal finishes. Window on the first floor will have fire-escape hinges, restricted opening and other functional options are also available. Contact us for advice and information.
Within the system is a choice of glazing beads and up to five window cill sections from a traditional 90mm up to a substantial 300mm.
Technical Information
Full technical information is available on the Coritzo website. With this window designed for the UK market, it’s been tested to PAS 24 Security Requirements, instead of relying on the European RC ratings. Our advice with windows is to upgrade to toughened glass throughout, even if not required. It’s a great security and peace of mind upgrade in our view, especially on ground floor windows.
Key specifications of the Cortizo Casement windows include:
- Frame and sash depth of 70mm.
- Polyamide thermal break of 32mm for enhanced insulation.
- Maximum sash dimensions for heavy-duty top-hung windows: 1800mm x 1800mm, with a maximum weight of 100kg.
- Double or Triple Glazed
- Slim sash dimensions: side-hung (950mm x 1300mm) and top-hung (1200mm x 1300mm).
- Y-Values double glazed 1.4Wm2K
- U-values triple glazed down to 0.9 Wm²K .
- Air permeability: Class 4.
- Water tightness: Class E1200.
- Wind resistance: Class CE2400.
Security and Energy Efficiency
Cortizo Casement windows are rigorously tested to meet British security standards, including PAS 24 certification, ensuring enhanced protection against break-ins. The inclusion of concealed hinges and robust locking mechanisms further reinforces their security credentials. Their thermal performance exceeds current Building Regulations, with U-values as low as 1.0 W/(m²K) for double glazing and 0.9 W/(m²K) for triple glazing.
As we’ve mentioned before relating to Cortizo products, the U-Values around Cortizo windows generally can be vague. For these windows, Cortizo states a centre pane glass U-Value of 1.0Wm2K with centre pane glass U-Value of 0.5 for triple glazing. Getting the right U-Values is essential for meeting current Building Regulations. Make sure your windows will comply not with glass U-Values but an overall value and ask for documents to confirm this. Or get in touch for advice.
Our advice here is to insist your installer demonstrates in writing with what glass specification these doors will meet the overall product U-Values. We think these windows may struggle to meet Building Regulations as a double glazed product.
How much do Cortizo Casement Windows Cost?
A typical casement window as explained in this article depends on many factors but you can expect to pay approximately £1500 including VAT and fitting for a typical 1200x 1200mm casement. Get in touch for more information and where to buy Cortizo windows.
It’s not easy to provide guide prices as buying power, profit margins, location of the installation, fitting costs etc all vary, as do sizes, colours and glass specifications.
Other Products to Compare with Cortizo
There are many similar casement windows on the market now, with the overlapping or flush casement design. If you are in the market for casement windows for your project, the below are worth comparing with Cortizo:
- Aluk 58BW ST
- Schüco AWS 80 SC
- Alitherm 400 Windows
More information, where to view and buy Cortizo Windows.
As we say a lot on this website, there is no bad door or window on the market but where they differ is who makes them, who fits them and expertise in windows generally. All current windows well-made and fitted will serve you well. With Cortizo doors being one of the most popular brands in the UK in recent years, these windows are a great accompaniment. Slim, stylish, they’ve got a good feel to them opening and closing.
Whether for replacement windows or new builds, dwellings, housing developments or commercial buildings, they’ll work well in your project. Cortizo Casement Windows are available through a nationwide network of approved manufacturers and installers. Contact us for more information, where to view and for any help with your residential or commercial project.
Profile Images Courtesy of Cortizo.
