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Awning vs. casement window—is one better than the other? The short answer is: it depends on your preferences, budget, and home aesthetic.
Casement and awning windows are hinged or crank windows, and they’re the most popular window types in the market. Both are similar in a few ways but different in various aspects, and we’re here to tell you what they are.
If you’re having trouble deciding between casement vs. awning windows, this blog is perfect for you. We’ll walk you through the similarities and differences between casement vs. awning windows. Let’s get started!
What Is a Casement Window?
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A casement window has hinges on the left or right side of its frame. This design allows its panels to swing outwardly towards the direction of the hinge. Most casement windows come with a crank handle and mechanism to open fully to let natural light and air come in. Others have a manual crank handle you need to push out to open.
Pros and Cons of Casement Windows
| Benefits of Casement Windows | |
| Ventilation Control | A casement window has a wide opening range, giving you control over how much fresh air flows. Having ample ventilation can prevent mould growth at home. |
| Unobstructed Views | Casement windows don’t have a check rail and consist more of glass than framing, giving you clear, unobstructed outdoor views. |
| Built-in Multipoint Locking System | Casement windows are difficult to tamper with since their locks are built inside their frames. |
| Egress Compatible | Canadian building codes recognize casement windows as a good option for your home’s emergency exit due to their tall size. |
| Downsides of Casement Windows | |
| May Obstruct Pathways | Since casement windows open outward, they become hazards in high-traffic areas on your property. |
| Crank Mechanism Failure | Constant wear and tear cause the crank mechanism to fail, which means you can’t open the window. |
| Rendered Useless When Obstructed | You must be wary of the surroundings near a casement window because any obstruction prevents its operation. |
What Is an Awning Window?
Image Source: Canva
Awning windows open vertically up to a 45° angle with its hinges on top, rather than on the side like in casement. Like casement, an awning window operate on a crank mechanism which makes operation easier and makes it ideal for hard-to-reach areas.
Pros and Cons of Awning Windows
| Benefits of Awning Windows | |
| Easy Operation | Twisting the awning window’s crank clockwise or counterclockwise opens and closes it smoothly. |
| Occupies Minimal Space | Awning windows have different size variations and can be small to fit tight areas at home. |
| Maximum Ventilation | You can leave an awning window for a long time and not worry about the rain, hail, or debris from entering. |
| Security | This window type also has a built-in multipoint locking system that no intruder can tamper with. |
| Downsides of Awning Windows | |
| Limited Opening Size | Awning windows have a max window opening angle of 45°. |
| Crash Hazard | Since this window type also opens outwards, the panels can be a hazard to high-traffic areas. |
| Not For Emergencies | An awning window has a wide but short orientation, so it isn’t suitable as an emergency exit. |
Awning Window vs. Casement Window Energy Efficiency
Awning and casement windows are equally energy efficient—only coming second to picture windows that don’t operate at all. That’s because of their crank or latch lock mechanism sealing the frame tightly and preventing air leaks when closed.
This prevents drafts and keeps warm air indoors, helping HVAC systems perform better—exactly what Ontario homes need to stay comfortable all season.
More than that, their material makes for better energy efficiency. For instance, Burano Door’s vinyl awning and casement windows made with lead-free, 100% uPVC material insulates better than other materials like aluminum by trapping heat. Add in double or triple glazing and they minimize heat exchange even further thanks to gas pockets between the panes.
🏠Read more: How Ontario Homes Benefit from Vinyl Windows
Casement vs. Awning Windows Maintenance
Cleaning casement windows—the window frame, panels, hinges, and locks—is easier since most can turn 90° inwards. You can clean both indoor and outdoor panels without leaving your home, which is something you can’t do for awning windows. You’d have to go outside and climb a ladder to clean them.
As for maintenance, both window types’ cranks need extra attention and lubrication to avoid rust and operate smoothly for days.
🧽Read more: Don’t Know How to Clean Windows? Here’s a How-to Guide for You!
Awning Window vs. Casement Window Costs & Installation
In terms of costs between casement vs. awning windows, casements are a tad more expensive with an average price of $900 while awning windows cost $800. These can increase up to $1,200 per window once you factor in size, shape, number of panes, and styling customizations.
You should also consider installation, which additionally costs around 15% of your window fees. Some homeowners take the DIY route to skip the fee, but it’s a risky move. It’s better to consult with professional window installers who know how to get the job done correctly. They can also give you service quotes, allowing you to allocate a budget beforehand.
Image Source: Canva
Awning vs. Casement Window Styles
Like sliding windows and fixed window types, casement and awning windows offer a plethora of style options. For instance, Burano Doors offer various window materials, colourways, glass glazing and other flairs you may find useful in replacement windows.
You can design them in any way that suits your home—line up your kitchen with multiple awning windows with stained glass designs. Secure your basement egress windows with casement windows with custom grills. You can also get creative and use window treatments to elevate your awnings and casements!
Casement or Awning—Burano Doors Has Them Available
Awning windows are perfect for wide, horizontal openings, while casement windows fit narrow, vertical ones. Both provide ample natural light and good ventilation, and you’re not compromising home energy efficiency when choosing either of them.
Choosing between an awning window vs. a casement window can be tough, but you’re welcome to have them both in your Ontario home.
Burano Doors can assess your home and determine the perfect casement and awning window placements. Whichever window type you need, our team will work closely with you to meet your needs and address your concerns. From design to manufacturing to installation, we’re with you every step of the way!
Contact us today for a free in-home assessment.
