Published on: January 21, 2024
If you are a homeowner you are probably considering awning window replacement. This can be a big project to tackle especially if you’ve never had to choose new windows or a high-quality installation team.
One very popular window type is awning windows. To make your replacement project simpler, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about awning window replacement: what they are, when to use them, when to choose a different option, and everything in between.
An awning window is a window that has hinges on the top and a crank at the bottom. The window opens by turning the crank, which swings the window outward until it forms a 90-degree angle to the wall. To close the window, you can then simply turn the crank the opposite direction and the window swings down gently and seals and latches into place.
Awning windows differ significantly from single or double hung windows. Single and double hung windows slide up and down on a track while awning windows operate on the crank and hinge system.
Don’t confuse awning windows with casement windows. Though both have hinges, they differ by the direction in which they hinge. While awning windows open up to the top, casement windows have their hinges on the side and either open to the left or right.
There are many benefits to choosing an awning window. Review these benefits as you evaluate the best option for your home.
Awning windows are highly desirable in areas where ventilation is key. Their ability to open all the way ensures the maximum amount of light and air in your home. The window panel also offers protection from the rain so your window can be open in multiple kinds of weather.
Finally, since these windows are usually rectangular in shape, they are perfect for places high up on the wall. This allows them to let out any rising smoke or steam that might need to escape a kitchen or bathroom.
Many customers choose awning windows for security reasons. The window’s popular rectangular shape makes them ideal for high placement. This allows homeowners to keep the window open for ventilation and still maintain a level of security on their home they wouldn’t otherwise have with an open window.
Customers also love the energy efficient nature of these windows. When the window panel swings down to close, it presses firmly against the window causing a tight seal. Gravity reinforces the seal and becomes tighter when elements such as wind press against it. There is no risk of the top panel not connecting with the top of the window and creating a gap like in a double hung window.
Homeowners choose awning windows for several reasons. Here’s a look at the most common reasons.
Bathrooms and kitchens are very popular places to have an awning window. Since these are two areas that naturally have steam and smoky air that needs to be ventilated, highly placed awning windows are the perfect option to keep the air in these rooms in your house clean and dry.
Homeowners often install awning windows in rooms where they want to maximize their view. Since the window panel can swing all the way up, customers can get the full view out their awning window without windowpane interference.
These windows are often very large and this also contributes to a great view. Finally, they can be set one on another to create a wall of windows that open all the way. This creates a beautiful atmosphere inside your home.
Basements are a great option for awning windows. The long narrow shape of them is perfect for the top of basement walls, letting in as much light and ventilation as possible in an otherwise dark and stuffy space. Plus, if there is not much space in your basement that is above ground, the long shape will work well in helping you add a window in an otherwise challenging space for natural light.
There are some instances where an awning window might not be the best option for your home. Here are some of those times:
In areas with a large amount of traffic, awning windows are less than ideal. When open, the window panel might cause a hazard on the outside of your home for children or pets. They also might let in too much noise and dust depending on the surrounding features of your home.
An egress window is a window that could be used as an emergency exit. Basements are the most common places where egress windows are required for the space to be counted in the home’s total square footage.
An awning window cannot be used as an egress window. The hinged window panel could prevent escape or rescue. So, if you have a window that needs to be an egress window, you’ll need to consider other options.
Learn the signs that it is time to consider awning window replacement to prevent damage to your home or unnecessary discomfort.
If the seal around your awning window is broken, cracked or starting to fall apart, this can lead to many issues. It can let water in and cause water damage to the inside of your home leading to mold damage and thousands of dollars in repairs. It will also contribute to a lack of energy efficiency in the home. The cracked or broken seal will let your indoor air out and the outdoor air in, causing your heating/cooling bill to increase.
Once the windows in a home start to break it is always a good idea to replace them. This is especially true when the crank handle on the window breaks. Since the crank is what is used to open and close the window, it becomes a huge problem if it doesn’t work.
Your window will either remain permanently closed, depriving you of the window’s ventilation capabilities, or, it will remain permanently open, leading to all kinds of issues and damage. A big, window-sized hole in your home is never an ideal scenario.
The hinges of an awning window not only help it function properly, but also keep it from becoming a safety hazard. Once the hinges are broken or no longer dependable, the window panel might come crashing closed. This can cause injury if the window falls on your head or smashes your fingers. It could also cause the glass to shatter leading to potential harm to all occupants of the home.
If you’re ready to get started installing new windows for your home, give 2FL Windows, Siding and Roofing a call at 253-243-8377 or contact us online. Our team will help you choose the perfect, most energy efficient kind of window.
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