What is an Awning Window?

Awning windows have one sash that opens outward at an angle. They’re a typical fixture in basements and above kitchen sinks, but you can place them anywhere in your home. 

These windows provide excellent ventilation while shielding against rain. It’s not uncommon for awning windows to be smaller than a standard single or double-hung window. Even then, they’re still more expensive.

What is an Awning Window?

If you need to install or replace an awning window in your home, here’s the average cost, sizes, pros, and cons.

How Do Awning Windows Open?

Awning windows open outward and work on a hinge system. They can be square or rectangle and have a hinge at the top and a crank handle at the bottom. You can control how far the window opens by turning the crank. 

To close an awning window, you turn the crank handle in reverse.


How Much Do Awning Replacement Windows Cost?

Awning window prices range from about $300 to $1,000. While these prices vary by type, size, and brand, even the most basic small awning window will run you about $200. The average labor price for awning window installation is $40 per hour.


What are the Standard Sizes of Awning Windows?

Awning windows come in many sizes. Widths start at about 1.5 feet and go up to 4 feet. The typical heights are 1-4 feet, but some awning windows are as tall as 7 feet.

The most common awning window sizes you’ll find at home improvement stores include:

  • 24” x 24”
  • 24” x 30”
  • 30” x 30”
  • 36” x 24”
  • 36” x 30”
  • 36” x 36”
  • 48” x 24”
  • 48” x 30”
  • 48” x 36”

You can also order a custom size if the dimensions you need aren’t in stock at a big box store.

What is the Largest Width of an Awning Window?

If you want to pick up an awning window at your local home improvement store, the largest width you’ll find is 48 inches. You can contact a window manufacturer for a custom quote if you need something larger than that.


Awning Windows Pros and Cons

Awning windows are “weatherproof.” Since they open outward, you can leave them open even during light rain. 

But awning windows do more than ventilate.

Pros:

  • Less Prone to Leaks – The hinge system of an awning window makes it less prone to leak than similar types.
  • Ventilation – Easy to open and ventilate your home, even during light rain.
  • Secure – Difficult to break into from the outside.
  • Versatility – Awning windows come in many sizes and finishes.

Pros:

  • Expensive – Awning windows cost more than a typical double-hung window.
  • Not a Good Emergency Escape – It takes longer to open an awning window, and the glass panel may obstruct your exit even when you do. If you want to use an awning window in your basement, check the local building codes first.
  • Crank Maintenance – Due to the crank system of an awning window, you may need to perform maintenance more than you would on a standard window.

Where are the Best Places to Put an Awning Window?

Awning windows look good when mixed in with other styles. They offer superior ventilation and add interest to your space. But, where should you put one?

Some of the most popular places to install awning windows include over the kitchen sink,  in the bathroom, over a picture window, or in the basement. But, these windows can work anywhere.


Awning vs. Sliding Windows

Awning vs. Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are the most common type of window. The standard double and single-hung windows you see in most homes slide vertically, but you can also purchase windows that slide horizontally.

If you’re working with a long narrow space, an awning or horizontally sliding window are your two best options.

Awning windows are more expensive but provide excellent ventilation, energy efficiency, and security. The biggest disadvantages are crank maintenance and lack of space for emergency exits.

A sliding window is easier to maintain, provides a better emergency exit, and lasts longer than an awning style. Both windows are good options, depending on the features you value most.


Awning vs. Double Hung Windows

Awning vs. Double Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are the standard rectangle you see in most homes. These windows feature two operable sashes, the bottom opens upward, and the top pulls downward.

One of the best features of double-hung windows is that they tilt in for easy cleaning. 

But, even though double-hung windows are easier to clean, they aren’t as energy efficient. When shut, awning windows have a much tighter seal that prevents air leaks. They also open outwardly, versus a double-hung window that opens horizontally.

Awning windows are more expensive but are a good choice if you want to add interest to a room that’s already full of the standard double or single-hung windows.


Can You Put a Window Air Conditioner in an Awning Window?

If you’re considering awning windows for a room that needs a window ac unit, you might need to rethink your decision. You can’t place a standard window ac unit in an awning window, but with some modifications, you can use a portable air conditioner.

To run the portable ac vent through the awning window, you’ll need to purchase a foam or plywood insert. (But, keep in mind that you’ll need to screw the plywood into the window frame.) Your third option is to use a fabric window seal kit, which you can purchase on Amazon.


What Kind of Window Treatments for Awning Windows?

Small awning windows and those over top of picture windows are often left bare. If you have or are purchasing a large awning window, you can use the same window treatments as you would for any other window.

Popular window treatment options include blinds and roman shades. But, you can use a curtain rod and curtain panels as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

Are awning windows cheaper than regular windows?

Awning windows are more expensive than regular windows. An average price for a small 24x24inch awning window is $300-$400. The average price for a 24×36” double-hung vinyl window is $200-$300. A standard single-hung window costs even less.

Can you put a screen on an awning window?

Most awnings come with a screen on the inside of the window. If your awning window doesn’t have a screen, you can add one.

Will an awning window open all the way?

Not all awning windows open all the way. Some will open up to a 90-degree angle, while others provide a much smaller opening.

Can you push open an awning window?

Some awning windows feature a push-out opening. To do this, you unlock the window, grab the handle and push outward. Most awning windows feature a crank instead.

Are awning windows the same as casement windows?

While awning and casement windows both work on a hinge system, they are not the same. An awning window has a hinge on the top and opens up and outward. A casement window has hinges on its side and opens outward toward one side. Both open with a crank or push on their handles.

Final Thoughts

Awning windows are ideal to use in combination with other types of windows, over kitchen sinks, and in basements, as long as they meet fire safety codes. These windows work on a hinge system. They have a crank at the bottom you turn to open the window.

Even though awning windows are smaller than a standard double-hung window, they’re more expensive. You can expect to pay $200-$300 for even the most basic awning window and $40 per hour in installation costs.