Essential Things You Should Understand About Awning Windows
When it comes to selecting awning windows for various rooms in your home such as basement and kitchen, there are fundamental things you ought to put into consideration. If you start by comparing windows from different companies, you will notice there are similar window designs but with different functionality.
There are always reasons why similar window styles should function differently. And nowhere these reasons are well evident than in the differences exhibited in awning and hopper windows. Read details here to get more insights.
- Operational Direction
The most visible difference between these two designs of windows is the way they open in regard to the direction of the opening. In the awning windows, the sashes open outward from the house. In the hopper windows, the sashes move inward. Depending on the brand or the company the sashes in the hopper windows may open at the top or bottom. A significant benefit of the awning window is that it can remain open regardless of the prevailing weather, and keep the raindrops away from the house while allowing fresh air in.
- Energy Rating
Depending on different window manufacturers, there may exist a big difference in window energy ratings, and ultimately the general performance of two designs of windows. Just as casement windows, the awnings depend on a solid seal for optimal energy efficiency when the window is closed. The seal covers the gap that exists between the frame and the seal, making it non-permeable to moisture and drafts.
Some hopper styles use solid or compression seal as well. However, in most cases, they depend on weather-stripping entire space. Weather-stripping is an efficient material and dramatically minimizes the hopper window energy rating. However, hopper windows are less energy efficient as compared to awning windows.
- Hardware
Awning window usually encompasses a crank approach with a fold-down handle that is used to operate the window. This makes it effortless to operate the units. On the other hand, hopper windows don’t use this same approach as awnings. When you open the window upward, an automatic latch locks the window at ninety degrees to hold it always open. These units are typically operated using a hand.
The weight of the sashes is of immediate consideration, especially when dealing with manually operated units. That is the key reason why hopper units are generally utilized in double pane-option. In regard to this, there is a considerably smaller optimal size in which these types of windows can be manufactured. As a result, they are mostly used in the basement or airtight areas to offer extra ventilation.
Even though these windows have a similar look, their functionality differs significantly depending on the manufacturer. Their energy rating may be different. Awning windows are the best option for vast areas that need ventilation throughout the year such as in the kitchen. Hopper windows are best in smaller areas.
