If you want to upgrade your home’s windows, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Among these are ventilation, style, safety, energy efficiency, and cost.
Awning windows are loved by both first-time homebuyers and long-term homeowners. They combine safety and practicality with visual appeal.
An awning window is a style of window with some variation of hinge system at the top, so the window can open from the bottom upwards and outwards. Awning windows are often part of a set of four or more windows and positioned at the top of larger casement or sash windows.
The awning window design is great for humid or high-rainfall areas because the window can remain open for ventilation while keeping rainwater and moisture out of the house.
Awning Windows Pros and Cons
Awning windows have many advantages, but they don’t come with their own share of disadvantages.
Pros
Ventilation
Good ventilation is important for your health – as well as the health of your décor and furnishings! Awning windows allow for great air circulation, as they can be opened to 90 degrees or more while still keeping the rain out. Their structure also lets lots of natural light into the room.
Good view
Awning windows give you a fantastic view of the great outdoors, as they have no rails or bars blocking your vision. Awning windows are generally placed fairly high up on the wall, so you can open the window fully while still enjoying your privacy.
Energy efficiency
Awning windows are very energy efficient. The sashes seal tightly onto the frame when closed, keeping cool or warm air inside the house. You can save a significant amount of energy when running your air conditioner if your windows are able to seal properly.
Depending on the type of awning window glass you select, you can maximize your energy efficiency even more. Double and even triple glazing have become very common choices in Northern climates with cold winters.
Design options
Awning window design means they have an outward-opening function, so you can install most kinds of window treatments without worrying about the window sash getting in the way. The high placement of most awning windows also opens up a maximum amount of wall space, so you have plenty of choice for your art and furniture placement.
Security
Awning window security is high, as the windows can be tightly closed on the inside with no gaps or spaces.
Cons
Collisions
Awning windows are not safe for outside high traffic areas of your home, because of their open, projecting sashes. If an awning window is positioned at walking height over a sidewalk, porch, deck, or terrace, someone can easily collide with the jutting sash.
Emergency exit
Escaping through an awning window in an emergency may be difficult, if not impossible. The windows are often highly-placed and quite small. Any screens on the windows will be positioned on the inside, which could also hamper an emergency exit.
Cleaning
Awning window cleaning can be a little tricky! When opened, the window sashes are directly exposed to rain and other substances (like bird poop) falling from above. Cleaning awning window panes on upper stories of the home need some ingenuity, as they open upwards and out of reach.
Awning Windows Cost
A single awning window can cost from $350 right on up to $1,050 or more.
The lowest-priced awning windows might not be the best choice for your home, as they are at a higher risk of leaking or other damage. You don’t want to have to replace furniture, carpets, or window treatments after a rainstorm!
The cost of awning windows depends on a number of factors, such as material, size, and manufacturer.
Material
Awning window materials include wood and steel, which are the most expensive options. More affordable windows are made of aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl or composite materials.
Steel is the most expensive (and durable) material, with the highest manufacturing and installation costs. Steel awning windows are unique, and the number of manufacturers is limited.
Still, many developers and homeowners like the modern, industrial look of steel awning windows – and they don’t need much maintenance.
Wood awning windows are also a sought-after option but will need maintenance over time to prevent weathering and warping.
Aluminum is a durable and less expensive option but can be prone to warping over time. Next is fiberglass, which costs around 30 percent more than vinyl.
Cellular PVC is considered a very economical choice, but vinyl is the most affordable of all awning window materials.
Size
Awning window sizes vary depending on their location within your home. The widest awning windows can measure around 4 feet tall and several feet wide, while others are tall and slender in design. As a rule of thumb – the wider the awning window, the higher the cost.
The price difference between a wide window and a skinny window can be several hundred dollars or more.
Manufacturer
Many manufacturers make ready-made awning windows, and some of them make custom windows to measure. Custom awning windows will cost you more than ready-made options.
Conclusion
Overall, awning windows are a good choice for window replacements. They offer great ventilation, privacy, safety, protection from the rain even when open, and protection from moisture in damp climates – plus an appealing, modern look.