The Difference Between Awning and Casement Windows
No matter if you’re building a new home or want to replace old windows with new windows, it helps to understand the various options that are available to you. While windows may not seem like a big decision to make, the type of window you choose can impact the amount of light in your home along with its value and appeal. If you’re looking for windows that will introduce a lot of natural light into your home, awning and casement windows are great options to consider. But do you know the difference between the two?
Here’s what you need to know about casement and awning windows so that you make the best decision when choosing windows for your home.
Casement Windows
Casement windows let in a lot of natural sunlight. They’re also great for introducing a fresh breeze into your home. These windows are opened and closed using a crank mechanism. What’s unique about casement windows is that they open outward, meaning the glass frame either swings to the left or the right.
These windows are available in all sorts of configurations though they’re best suited for window openings that are taller than they are wide. This leaves plenty of room for the window panes to open to the side without interference.
Awning Windows
Just like casement windows, awning windows are also opened using a crank function. However, these windows open from the bottom, meaning the pane is pushed away or drawn towards the frame to control the amount of airflow. Awning windows are best for openings that are wider than they are tall.
Unlike casement windows, awning windows can be left open even during a light rain, since the moisture will slide down the opened window pane, allowing you to enjoy a nice breeze even when the sun isn’t shining.
Benefits of Both Window Types
No matter if you choose casement or awning windows, the bottom line is that both of these crank window options offer all sorts of benefits. Here are the benefits you’ll want to know about when choosing between traditional or crank windows.
Endless Sunlight
There’s nothing better than walking into a home that’s well lit. While you could use interior lighting fixtures to make the space feel more open and inviting, sunlight is the easiest and cheapest way to add a cheery look. With both awning and casement windows, you can invite in as much sun into your home as you want. The windows are completely unobstructed, which means you don’t have to worry about rails or bars impacting the view outside of the window. The design makes these windows the perfect option for letting in light while also enjoying a picture perfect view of your home’s natural surroundings.
Added Ventilation
During the warmer months, it’s nice to be able to open the windows and let in some fresh air. Both of these crank windows offer great ventilation capabilities. Because these windows are designed to be sturdy and offer large window sizes, you can let in a good amount of air. This is very helpful when you want to cut down on energy costs. With the right airflow, you can enjoy a refreshing natural breeze and comfortable temperatures.
Easy to Use & Maintain
Traditional windows with latches and tracks can be a pain. Have you ever had to open or close a window with old gunked up tracks? Talk about frustrating! And let’s not mention the hassle you have to go through of holding back the curtains or raising up the blinds to get full access to the window.
Unlike traditional windows, casement and awning windows are easily opened and closed using a crank. This means smooth opening and closing that is virtually effortless. Most crank handles are designed to fold down in order to minimize the risk of an accidental poke in the side.
Not only are these window types easy to operate, they’re also easy to maintain. Cleaning casement and awning windows is much easier than cleaning traditional ones. Since the glass opens in a certain direction, you have full access to the interior and exterior glass. Not only can you clean the glass more efficiently, you also never have to worry about built up dirt and debris in the tracks! Just wipe down the glass and voila, you’re done.
Conclusion
Choosing the right windows for your home not only impacts the overall look, but also the functionality that your home offers. By choosing awning or casement windows, you can let in more natural light while also using the windows as a way to regulate the temperature in your home without relying on your HVAC unit.
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