The Surprising Advantages of Casement and Awning Windows

Casement and awning windows both rely on a hand crank as a central part of their operation. To open the window, simply turn the crank and the window will open on a hinge. Casement windows have hinges on the side, and open outward like a door. Awning windows have hinges on the top. This hinge and crank system is unique to casement and awning windows, and offers many benefits including easy operation, easy maintenance, increased security, and more.

Consumers who want more from their windows turn to casement and awning windows for their beauty and functionality. If you’re considering either of these window types for your home, you should be aware of the many advantages that come from having this type of window.

Your home’s windows should add value and beauty to your home. Casement and awning windows do just that. Below are the many surprising advantages of casement and awning windows.

1. Outstanding Air Flow

Casement and awning windows both are known for their exceptional air flow. To open either type of window, simply turn the crank to tilt the sash and allow air to flow freely into your house. No other window type can provide such a wide opening.

In addition, casement windows help direct moving air into the house, by capturing air flow as it blows into the open pane. This natural ventilation can reduce your home’s HVAC costs and create a refreshing breeze. For homeowners who like opening up their house on pleasant days, either window type would be a smart investment.

2. Well Paired With Other Window Styles

It’s common for homeowners to choose more than one window type for their home, because not all windows are right for every window opening. When you select windows for your house, it’s important to choose window types that can coordinate with each other.

Casements and awnings both have an elegant appearance that easily pairs with many other window types, including single hung, double hung, picture windows, and bay windows. When you’re choosing the windows for your home, there are many factors to consider when deciding which window types to install. Your window dealer and installer can help you consider all the relevant variables before you make your final decision.

3. Architecturally Lovely

No other window type is more sophisticated and lovely as casements and awning windows. Casements and awnings can be made without grids for a wide, unobstructed view of the yard, or they can come with grids to create a pattern that flows with the rest of the house. If you’re having a hard time deciding whether to buy windows with or without grids, your window dealer can show you examples of windows with various grid configurations to make the decision easier.

4. Highly Energy Efficient

Casement and awning windows seal exceptionally tightly when they’re closed to prevent all drafts and air leaks from making it through. This, combined with durable, insulated glass, makes casement and awning window types some of the most energy efficient windows available in Florida.

In a state known for its extreme weather and extreme heat during the summer, this makes energy efficient glass an exceptional investment. Work with your window dealer to find the most energy efficient window types for you. 

5. Easy to Operate

Casement and awning windows are incredibly easy to operate: just turn the crank to open, then turn the crank again to close. This makes casements and awning windows a preferred window type in the kitchen, where pushing up a window while leaning over the counter or the sink can be challenging.

6. Easy to Clean

Turn crank windows are designed to be exceptionally easy to clean from the inside. To reach the side of the glass that usually faces the home’s exterior, turn the crank to open the window all the way.

As you do this, the sash will move aside to create a gap where your hand can reach through and wash the window’s exterior. Washing the windows in this way is easy, safe and convenient. No longer will you have to hire window washers or stand on ladders to wash each window yourself. With casement and awning windows, you’ll have full ability to safely wash your windows from the inside.

7. Nothing Obstructing the View

Double hung and single hung windows have multiple sashes that meet in the middle of the window, creating an obstruction that crosses the window from one side to the other. Often, the locking mechanism for these types of windows is also in this area, on the upper edge of the lower sash.

The view out of casement and awning windows is not obstructed in this way. If it’s important to you to see a wide-open pane of glass and an unobstructed view of the outdoors around your house, then casement and awning windows may be the right choice for you.

8. Increased Security

Casement and awning windows both have a unique design that places the hardware inside the frame, including the locking mechanism. This makes these windows some of the most secure consumer window types available. Their hidden locks make them virtually tamperproof. In addition, impact resistant glass makes casement and awning windows incredibly strong and able to withstand being struck by a potential intruder.

The best way to ensure that your windows will remain secure, even in the face of a potential intruder, is to buy quality windows from a reputable dealer/manufacturer. Windows are most secure when they’re well-built and made from quality materials. If security is a priority for you, buy your windows from a source that you trust. Some tips:

  • Read online reviews for any window dealer. If the installer is a separate entity, check the installer references before signing a contract.
  • Compare multiple window brands and dealers before settling on a product.
  • Consider the length of time the brand has been in business. Companies that have many years of experience will have had more time to perfect their product.
  • Consider performance ratings as well as code compliance when making your selection. Look for a company that has won awards for innovation.

See Casements and Awning Windows at the Nearest Show Room

Before ever purchasing a window for your home, whether that’s awning windows, casement windows or another type, it’s important to see the product in a showroom. Viewing the windows in person will help you make a final decision, and will help you decide on the right window type for your home.

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