A Guide to Help You Decide between Awning vs Casement Windows

If you’re interested in awning and casement windows, but have trouble deciding between the two – look no further!

Both awning and casement windows are very similar. They both open easily with a crank handle, but their dimensions and designs do differ, and each of these windows offers different advantages.

Deciding on window upgrades requires thoughtful planning. You have to weigh the pros and cons of each window to figure out which type suits your needs best. To help you decide on awning vs casement windows, here’s an in-depth look at both.

AWNING WINDOWS

Awning windows have hinges at the top. This way, they can open from the bottom both outward and upward with the simple turn of a crank handle. These are the best windows for an opening which has a width that is greater than the height.

Since these windows also act as awnings, they can stay open when it’s raining outside as they prevent rain from getting in. These windows are, however, somewhat difficult to clean from the inside, and for this reason, they are usually best suited for the first floor of a building.

If you’re thinking of installing awning windows, you may also want to consider the following points:

Pros:

  • Pair nicely with picture windows: these windows are versatile and can complement any style you have in mind. For instance, they can be installed beside or underneath other window styles!
  • Minimal finish for a clean and modern appearance: the few panels of an awning window gives you an unobstructed view from the inside and gives a modern and fresh appearance from the outside.
  • Are made of energy efficient glass: save energy with a quality product, and potentially add value to your home!

Cons:

  • Limited placement options due to height and width.
  • More difficult to maintain and clean.

CASEMENT WINDOWS

Casement windows have hinges on the side and open outwardly to the left or right. These windows are therefore ideal for an opening with a height that is greater than the width. These windows are also more common in recent home designs.

Casement windows provide superior ventilation, catching the air much like a sail. These are also the most energy-efficient type of windows. With their airtight compression seals, they seal like a refrigerator door. They also have weather-stripping and tight seals on all four sides of the window to keep energy costs down by ensuring that you do not lose cool air or heat throughout the year.

Unlike awning windows, you can clean casement windows from the inside rather easily. These windows also allow for an additional or alternative exit from the building in the event of a fire.

If you’re thinking of installing casement windows, you may also want to consider the following points:

Pros:

  • Offer a wide variety of designs and styles: feel free to customize according to the style of your home!
  • Elegant and modern finish: if renovating to sell, new windows can give your home a brilliant exterior appearance.
  • Air-tight seals make them the second most efficient windows after fixed pane windows: don’t lose cool air during the summer or warm air during the winter.
  • Easy to use and easy to maintain: simply turn the crank without using too much strength. No push or pull.

Cons:

  • Size limitations (can neither be too large nor too heavy).
  • Require exterior space that is unobstructed.

SHARED CHARACTERISTICS

Awning and casement windows are ideal for hard to reach areas, such as above the kitchen sink or in bathrooms. Due to the design and hinge placement of these windows, they are also best suited for small to medium-size openings. Evidently, large businesses avoid using them as larger and heavier panes could lead to the hardware warping.

For homeowners, these types of windows open outward completely and provide exceptional air ventilation. Since they also do not have any rails or meeting sashes, both awning and casement windows provide unobstructed views and plenty of natural light. They can also be locked completely, which offers homeowners an additional sense of security.

Awning and casement windows are ideal for any living area where you want an unobstructed view of the outdoors. Since they open outwards, it is, however, very important to consider that you have ample space outside to open the windows fully. Trees, shrubs, and other structures should be far enough to not obstruct the windows and to avoid damages.

Both types of windows are secure and easy to use, providing unobstructed views of the outdoors and plenty of ventilation. When ordered from a quality window manufacturer, you can make sure you get high-performance windows, no matter the style. Start by assessing your personal needs, your options and your style, you can then contact a professional windows manufacturer to get started!