Are awning-style windows the right choice for your home? If you’re ready to replace some of your windows, take a look at what you need to know about this popular option.

What Are Awning Style Windows?

Unlike the awning that covers your front porch or back deck, awning-style windows don’t have a projection that creates a roof-like structure over parts of your home. Instead, these windows have an awning-like look. The windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom. This allows the window to open completely, providing the maximum amount of air flow or ventilation possible.

Why Choose Awning Style Windows?

There isn’t one universal answer to this question. Homeowners choose awning-style windows for several reasons. These include personal preference, the existing window opening, overall aesthetics, cost, ventilation, and lighting. Before you choose or eliminate an awning-style window, consider your home’s needs along these lines.

If you’re still not sure whether to select an awning window replacement, discuss the pros and cons with a professional contractor.

How Can Awning Style Windows Increase Ventilation?

Ventilation is one of the top reasons homeowners choose awning-style windows. Even though all windows (except for fixed picture styles) provide some level of ventilation, awning replacements can add to the overall air flow. The ability to fully open the window outward allows more air in — and out. This makes an awning window an ideal option for any interior area that has little-to-no ventilation.

Kitchens and bathrooms are two home spaces that often require extra ventilation. An awning window over the kitchen door or above another window can help you to vent out smoke and cooking smells. In the bathroom, an awning window can increase the air flow and decrease humidity. The open window allows steam from the shower or bath outside. This decreases humidity in the room — adding comfort and reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Can Awning Windows Increase Natural Light?

Unlike bay, bow, picture, slider, and wide or tall casement windows, awning windows don’t have a significant amount of translucent surface space. But this doesn’t mean this style won’t help let light in. To maximize the amount of light in a dim room, consider the addition of an awning style window above a door. You can also place this style above or below another window.

The extra area the awning creates increases the overall window space. If you don’t like the look of one large window, an awning style can brighten a room without the need to install a floor to ceiling model. It can also have a similar effect when you pair this window with an entry door. When installed over a door, it can add light to a previously dark interior space.

Can You Use Awning Windows Alone?

Even though you can pair awning windows with other styles, you can also use this option on its own. A single horizontal awning window is a popular choice in basements. Placement issues and the underground environment can make it difficult to install a full-sized window in this home area. A short, wide awning window can fit this type of smaller space easily. This provides extra ventilation and the light your basement may need.

Along with basements, you can use an awning window in any other room of the house — especially smaller rooms that don’t have much wall space. You can also stack awning windows on top of or next to each other to create a full wall of windows or a sunroom-like style.

Does your home need new windows? Contact Fischer Window and Door Store for more information.