Windows come in many shapes and sizes. Each room in your house or building has a different window style. Awning window, casement window, and hopper window are some of the more popular choices.
When choosing a window for a specific area, there are 6 things to consider:
- What the room is used for
- The direction the windows are facing
- Which way the windows should open
- The amount of light and fresh air needed
Awning windows have graced residential and commercial spaces for centuries. They are a great option if you need ventilation that provides security and protection from outside elements.
What are Awning Windows?
An awning window has a quadrilateral frame and glass that opens outward. It is similar to a casement window except awning windows are hinged on top instead of the side. At the bottom is a hand crank for opening or closing an awning window.
These windows get their name from the awning-like effect they create. They are able to effectively protect the interior of your home especially if they have screens. Awning windows are popular because they can be left open even when it is raining.
Awning windows are also easy to operate, which makes them ideal for hard-to-reach places. Install them above sinks or up high in bathrooms for privacy. They are likewise a great choice for basements which require ventilation high on the wall. Awning windows are often used in combination with inoperable openings such as picture windows.
Benefits of Awning Windows
Crank windows do not have rails or moving sashes so they provide an unobstructed view of the outside. They are also easy to open and close even in hard-to-reach places. Below are some of the benefits of installing an awning window.
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Provide excellent ventilation
Awning windows are strong enough to hold large panels of glass. A bigger wall opening means more air and natural light passing through.
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Offer a clear view
Without metal rails or bars, awning windows give you a nice clear view of the outside.
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Effortless operation
Crank handles are easy to grip and turn, so opening or closing an awning window requires minimal effort.
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Easy to maintain
The 90-degree opening angle of awning windows allows for easy cleaning of both sides of the glass.
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Enhanced security
There are plenty of options for securing an awning window. Experts at Glass King can help install break-in sensors, security bars, chain winder locks, or auxiliary locks.
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Energy-efficient
Awning windows are built with very thick insulated glass for maximum energy efficiency and home comfort.
Awning Windows vs. Casement Windows
Awning and casement windows are similar but also different. Both are types of crank windows are customizable to fit the needs of your home.
Both windows are opened and closed using a crank lever mechanism. The sash easily glides when you turn the handle. Their difference lies in their installation orientation.
For instance, awning windows are hinged at the top and open upward. They are horizontal in orientation and are only available in one, two or three-lite (sash) configurations. Awning windows are designed for wall openings that are short and wide.
Casement windows, on the other hand, are hinged at the side and open to the left or to the right. They are vertical in orientation and are available in one, two, three, four or five-lite (sash) configurations. Casement windows are designed for wall openings that are tall and narrow.
Among all window types, awning and casement windows provide the most ventilation and natural light. This is because of their capability to fully open outward – sometimes up to 90 degrees. They work well in bathrooms, kitchens and basements where sunlight and fresh air are most needed.
Moreover, awning and casement windows require a lot of free space around them so the panes can fully open. This means that you need to clear tree branches and other potential obstructions from the area surrounding the window.
Awning Windows vs. Hopper Windows
Awning and hopper windows look the same when closed but differ in the way they open. In awning windows, the sash opens outward and away from the house. In hopper windows, the sash swings inward from the wall and into the house. This distinction is what makes them ideal for very different places inside your home.
Hopper windows may open from the bottom or from the top. They do not have the same easy-to-operate mechanical components of an awning window. When a hopper window opens upward, a latch automatically locks the sash so it stays open. The weight and orientation of the sash limit hopper windows to small sizes and double-pane styles. This is why they are often installed in tight spaces such as small bathrooms or basements.
On the other hand, awnings have a higher energy rating than hoppers. Awning windows rely on a compression seal to keep moisture and draft outside. A hopper window covers the gap with a less efficient weather stripping material.
Contact the AZ Glass Experts
Whether you are installing or replacing an awning, hopper or casement window, Glass King is here to help. If you’re in the Phoenix area, call 480-389-5656 and ask for a quote today.
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