How Awning Windows Enhance Ventilation and Style: A Complete Guide [2024]
Apr 25, 2016
Oct 8, 2024
7 min read
169
When shopping for new windows consider this: all operable windows can be classified into two types: sliding or crank.
Awning and casement windows are considered crank windows. Crank out windows have several advantages compared to sliders: they are usually more efficient, they are easier to operate, and are harder to break.
If you want to know more about this type of windows, their pros, cons, and costs, this ultimate guide brings just that.
What Is An Awning Window?
Awning windows are models that open outward from the bottom up. They are operated by cranking a handle that pushes the bottom of the sash out, allowing excellent ventilation while keeping rain water away.
Homeowners in Canada often choose awning styles windows for particular areas of their homes due to their unique benefits. Here’s why they’re commonly installed in specific locations:
- Kitchens: Awning windows are popular above kitchen counters or sinks, where accessibility can be an issue. Their easy-to-use crank mechanism makes them ideal for these spots. In fact, nearly 27% of kitchen renovations in Canada include window upgrades, with awning windows being a top pick for improved ventilation and ease of use.
- Bathrooms: Privacy and ventilation are key reasons awning windows work well in bathrooms. Their higher placement provides privacy while still allowing for airflow. A study shows that proper bathroom ventilation can reduce humidity levels, prevent mould, and improve air quality.
- Basements: vinyl awning windows are often selected for basements as they allow airflow while keeping rain out.
Types of Awning Windows
While there aren’t specific subtypes of awning windows like there are for other styles, operable awning windows are part of the crank-operated window family. This design sets them apart from windows such as sliders or hung windows, which operate on a track, and from casement windows, which open outwards but are hinged on the side rather than the top.
Awning windows open outward from the bottom using a crank, offering a distinct advantage when it comes to ventilation, even in wet weather. Here’s how they compare to other common window types:
- Awning vs. Slider Windows: Unlike sliders, which open horizontally along a track, awning windows swing outward from the bottom, allowing air to flow while keeping rain out.
- Awning vs. Casement Windows: While both are crank-operated, casement windows are hinged on the side, opening outward vertically, whereas awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward horizontally.
Awning replacement windows offer a unique combination of practicality and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for spaces that require constant ventilation, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Advantages of Awning Windows
Awning windows offer several practical and aesthetic benefits for homeowners across Canada. Here’s why they’re an excellent option for various spaces:
- Weather Protection: Their top-hinged design allows for ventilation even during rain, keeping your home dry while still letting air flow.
- Energy Efficiency: With their tight, weather-tight seals, awning windows help reduce heat loss, making them energy-efficient and reducing utility bills.
- Easy Operation: The crank mechanism makes them easy to open and close, even in hard-to-reach places like above sinks or counters.
- Increased Security: Awning windows provide a secure option when slightly opened due to their limited opening range from the bottom.
Awning Kitchen Window: Why Is It So Popular?
One of the most common uses for awning windows is in the kitchen. This window type is ideal for several reasons. As we mentioned above, crank windows are much easier to operate than sliders. In fact, it usually takes about one-tenth of the strength to open a casement or awning window.
That’s why crank windows are ideal in kitchens, above your kitchen counter: because you need to lean over the counter to open the window, it can sometimes be difficult with sliders as the weight of the sash becomes quite significant in bigger windows.
Another reason awning windows are ideal for kitchens, is because kitchens are one area of your home that needs air circulation year-round. As you cook or use kitchen appliances, the air in your kitchen becomes saturated with moisture, not to mention odours.
Awning windows that open all the way provide optimal ventilation in most temperatures and weather conditions. Because the window operates outward from the bottom, the opening allows for good ventilation even with half awning window opened without water going into your kitchen.
What does an awning window look like?
Here are some awning windows ideas how to incorporate this window style into your kitchen. You are welcome to customise your new awning window with any colour and glass you want to perfectly complement your home design.
Awning Window Price: Calculate Your Project
Due to their design and operational features, the price for awning window replacement may vary. The final cost is based on personal preferences and your selected custom features, including size, glass type, style, and colour.
- The approximate price for an awning window of standard size in triple-pane glass starts at $1425
To get a clearer picture of what your awning window installation might cost, use our replacement windows cost estimator to calculate the approximate price of your window project.
If you need a detailed quote for your new awning window, please contact us. Ecoline experts will be happy to provide a free consultation and estimate based on your specific project details.
F.A.Q
How far do awning windows open?
Awning windows typically open outward from the bottom at a 45-degree angle, allowing for adequate ventilation while keeping rain out. However, some models allow you to tilt awning windows to 90 degrees for maximum airflow.
How to clean awning windows from inside?
To clean awning windows from the inside, crank the window open slightly, then clean the exterior surface using a long-handled squeegee or cloth. Some awning windows also have removable sashes, making cleaning the interior and exterior easier without fully opening the window.
Are awning windows energy-efficient?
Yes, awning windows are energy-efficient due to their tight, weather-sealed design. They reduce air leakage and help maintain consistent indoor temperatures. When combined with triple-pane glass, awning windows can significantly lower heating and cooling costs, making them a popular choice in Canadian homes.
What does an awning window look like?
An awning window is a top-hinged, outward-opening window that swings from the bottom. Its design offers a sleek, modern look while maintaining practicality for ventilation and weather protection. They are often rectangular and feature a crank mechanism for easy operation.