Awning windows and casement windows are two excellent choices when it’s time to replace your windows. They both allow lots of air and natural light into your Ottawa home. However, critical differences between the two window styles may make one a better choice for your needs. Here’s some helpful information about how awning and casement windows work and the unique advantages of each.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
Casement windows swing open like a door, with hinges on one side. You open and close the window with a crank, although there are also models you can push open. The hinges can be on the left or right, whichever suits your needs. An internal latch keeps the window securely closed and holds the sash tight against a seal to prevent air and moisture leaks. The crank mechanism makes this style perfect for hard-to-reach places like over countertops or sinks.
Casement windows come in various sizes, although they’re typically designed as vertical windows with greater height than width. A casement window is an excellent choice for a room with high ceilings, as it allows lots of natural light and provides a great view of the outdoors.
A casement window wouldn’t function well as a horizontal window because the weight of the glass would put tremendous stress on the hinges when open.
AWNING WINDOWS
Awning windows also have hinges, but they’re located on the top, allowing the window to swing open from the bottom. Like casement windows, you open awning windows with a crank and securely close them with an internal latch. When open, the window itself acts as an awning, keeping rain and debris from entering your home. You can leave an awning window open during light rain, and water won’t get inside your home.
Unlike casement windows, awning windows are typically designed as horizontal windows with greater length than height. Awning windows are perfect for areas where you want airflow in all weather, like kitchens and bathrooms. They’re also suitable for basements, where the window is high up on the wall.
Finally, since both awning and casement windows swing outward, you must ensure the area outside the window is free of trees, shrubs, fences or any other obstruction.
AWNING AND CASEMENT WINDOWS IN OTTAWA
At Canadian Comfort Windows & Doors, our experienced staff can help you choose the best windows for your home. We have a wide range of vinyl awning and casement windows that are attractive, durable, and energy-efficient. Our window installation services are available to residential and commercial clients in Ottawa and the surrounding area that purchase their windows with us. Contact us today to request a free quote on upgrading to triple-glazed North Star windows.