Awning Vs Casement Windows: The Breakdown

Published on Wednesday May 25, 2022

When it comes to making upgrades to your home, you have a broad selection in terms of windows. Depending on your style preferences and goals for your home, some might be better than others. It helps to stay knowledgeable and informed on different window types so you can make the best decision for your home. If you’re debating an awning vs. casement window upgrade, Long Windows can help you make an educated decision that will leave you with windows you love.

When comparing casement vs. awning windows, rest assured that both are popular choices and provide a lot of benefits to your home. Many homeowners struggle to determine the difference between the two—but there are differences. Read on to learn more about your awning vs. casement window options so you can determine which choice is best for you.

Awning vs. Casement Window: Similarities

Both awning and casement windows are referred to as “crank windows.” This name came about due to their opening mechanisms which both utilize a cranking motion. They open and shut using an easy-to-operate handle that folds down when not in use. Simply pop out the handle and rote clockwise or counterclockwise depending on if you want the window open or shut.

Both window types open outward fully, so in terms of air flow, awning and casement windows are actually very similar. They both provide maximum airflow and natural light into your home. If you have any room in your home where you’d like to include an unobstructed outside view or need extra ventilation, both awning and casement windows are a good choice.

Keep in mind that both window types require free space outside so they can open fully. That means they’re not ideal if you have walkways right outside. You will need to keep trees, shrubbery, and other obstructions cleared away from the window.

Awning vs. Casement Window: Differences

As you compare casement vs. awning windows, it’s important to understand that they are very similar in operation, benefits, and disadvantages. However, they do have some distinct differences that could make one better than the other for your home.

Awning windows are hinged from the top, so they open much like their name implies: like an awning. They are limited in variety with only one, two, or three-lite configurations. This type of window works best for placements where the width of the window is greater than the height, so don’t plan to install them in any floor-to-ceiling window layout.

Casement windows are hinged from the side. They can open from either the left or the right and have a wider variety of configurations. They are great for areas where the height is greater than the width.

Benefits of Awning and Casement Windows

Crank windows have a lot of advantages. They don’t have rails or meeting sashes which means you can enjoy a big, beautiful view of the outdoors without anything getting in the way. They’re easy to use and simple to open, even in difficult spaces. They’re great in various rooms, such as above the kitchen sink or in the bathroom. They allow excellent natural light and ventilation.

Here are the amazing benefits of crank windows for you to consider as you determine the best windows for your home upgrade:

Ventilation. Both awning and casement windows offer excellent ventilation for your home. They have great strength in their structure, allowing them to be large in size and open fully. This provides a lot of fresh air and ventilation into your home.
Views. Due to their design and structure, crank windows don’t have rails or bars. This allows you a completely unobstructed view of the outdoors, allowing your home to feel brighter and bigger. Plus, you can enjoy the view without anything in the way.
Easy operation. Their easy fold-down handles are smooth to use, allowing for effortless opening and closing.
Effortless cleaning. Awning and casement windows are simple to clean due to their straightforward opening angle. You can clean both inside and outside without having to step outdoors.
Energy efficiency. Awning and casement windows are manufactured with insulated glass and provide a great seal when closed. This helps make them a great energy-efficient option for your home.
Security. Crank windows are secured at multiple points—between two and four depending on the size. When installed by professionals, they are easy to open and close for a homeowner, but they provide an incredible locking system that makes them far more secure than some other window types.

Which Window is Best for You?

The pros and cons are very similar when you compare awning vs. casement windows, so if you’re worried about air flow awning vs. casement, don’t bother. They both perform very similarly. To determine if a casement or awning window is the best fit for you, consider where your window will be placed. If you need to fill a long horizontal space, awning windows may be best. If you need to fill a vertical space, casement windows are going to be the best fit.

Get Your Windows Today

If you’re looking for professionals to handle your home improvement project, the experts at Long Windows can get the job done. Find your closest Long Windows location today.