Two of the most popular window types are awning and casement windows. While the two styles share many features, their distinct differences make them suited for different situations.
So if you’ve looked at different windows and asked yourself, “awning window vs casement window, which one is best for my home?” you’ve come to the right spot because this blog will give you all the answers!
What are the Differences between Awning and Casement Windows?
Before we dig into the details, let’s start with a quick look at the basic facts of awning and casement windows.
| Casement Windows | Awning Windows | |
| Style: | Hinged at the side, opens outward to the left or right | Hinged at the top, opens outward up to a 45-degree angle. |
| Space Requirements: | Ideal for wall spaces taller than they are wide. | Ideal for wall spaces wider than they are tall. |
| Functionality: | Operated by an easy-to-use crank handle mechanism. | Operated by an easy-to-use crank handle mechanism. |
| Energy-Efficiency: | High energy efficiency with airtight seals. | High energy efficiency with airtight seals. |
| Ventilation: | Excellent ventilation. Full airflow control. | Very good ventilation at all weather conditions, including rain. |
| Cleaning: | Can be comfortably cleaned from inside your home. | Cannot be cleaned from inside. |
| Maintenance: | Crank mechanism may require maintenance with increased use. | Crank mechanism may require maintenance with increased use. |
| Safety: | Multi-point cam locking system. Can be used as emergency egress in case of an fire or emergency. | Multi-point cam locking system. Cannot be used as emergency egress in case of an fire or emergency. |
What is an Awning Window?
Features & Top Reasons to Install
An awning window is a vinyl window that can be opened with a hand crank, just like a casement window. The awning window, however, is top-hinged and extends outward up to a 45-degree angle.
What makes awning windows so attractive is their construction allows you to leave them open and create an airflow even during inclement weather. It also is a one-piece window, meaning no bars or frames obstruct the view of the outdoors.
Structure & Style
Awning windows are rectangular but typically wider than tall, making them a good choice for any space that lends itself to this orientation. Please note that they cannot be wider than 48”.
Pros
- Great for wide openings
- Simple hand-crank operation
- It will provide ventilation even when it rains
- Airtight seal to prevent energy transfer
- Multipoint locking system for additional safety
Cons
- Because the window opens outward, it can interfere with traffic, furniture or plants.
- The outside cannot be cleaned from the inside
- The crank handle may require additional maintenance or repairs
- It cannot be used as an emergency exit
Security
Due to the multipoint locking system of an awning window, it is one of the most secure options for any opening window.
Maintenance
Awning windows require little maintenance. You must check the crank handle periodically to ensure it works properly. The only downside of awning windows concerning care is that they cannot be fully cleaned from the inside.
Casement Window
Features & Top Reasons to Install
Just like awning windows, casement windows are vinyl windows and are crank-handle operated. Opposed to the awning window, the casement window is side hinged and opens outward up to a 90-degree angle.
One of the most important reasons to install a casement window is the excellent ventilation due to its wide opening. It also is a one-piece window, meaning no bars or frames obstruct the view of the outdoors.
Structure & Style
Casement windows are rectangular and typically taller than wide, making them an excellent choice for narrower spaces. Please note that they cannot be wider than 36”.
Pros
- Excellent choice for tall openings or narrow spaces
- Simple hand-crank operation
- Excellent ventilation as it can “scoop” the wind to increase airflow
- Airtight seal to prevent energy transfer
- Multipoint locking system for additional safety
- Easy to fully clean from the inside
- It can be used as an emergency exit
Cons
- Because the window opens outward, it can interfere with traffic, furniture or plants.
- The crank handle may require additional maintenance or repairs.
Security
Due to the multipoint locking system of a casement window, it is one of the most secure options for any opening window.
Maintenance
Casement windows require little maintenance. You must check the crank handle periodically to ensure it works properly. It can also easily be fully cleaned from the inside.
Awning Windows Vs Casement Windows: Which is Best and Which One to Choose for Your Home?
Awning windows and casement windows are closely related but come with distinct differences. This close relationship also means there is no clear “best” window, but it all depends on the specific situation, which is the better-suited one. Awning windows are an excellent choice for addition under a picture window to add ventilation, while a casement window can take your airflow to the next level.
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The majority of our business is based on referrals from our satisfied customers. Therefore, we work with integrity to be your number-one choice for doors and window replacements!
Contact us today at 905-875-2596 or fill out our convenient online form to schedule a free estimate and learn how we can help you take your windows and doors to the next level!
FAQs
How Energy-Efficient are Awning and Casement Windows?
Both types are among the most energy-efficient window types, behind a fixed window that cannot be opened. Both form tight seals around the sash as it fits snugly into the frame.
How Secure Are Awning and Casement Windows?
Awning and casement windows are among the safest types available. Not only does the multipoint lock system in both styles seal and secure the windows, but the fact that both can only be opened with a crank from the inside makes it impossible for intruders to open the window from the outside.
