Awning Windows vs. Casement Windows: What Is the Difference?

There are myriad window styles readily available on today’s market, each offering a unique aesthetic and function. With so many options at your fingertips, it’s easy to get any two window styles mixed up, especially those that look and operate similarly. Take awning windows and casement windows, for instance. These particular window styles are popular among homeowners. But, although they may appear to be similar at first glance, each offers its own set of features.

How Are Awning Windows & Casement Windows Alike?

It’s understandable if you confuse awning windows with casement windows, as both share a number of characteristics. For example, both awning windows and casement windows feature sashes that swing open on hinges rather than sliding up or to the side, and both generally operate by the turn of a crank. When it comes to aesthetic appeal, more similarities can be seen. Because neither casement windows nor awning windows have sash rails running through the middle, both are wonderful for enjoying uninterrupted views of the outdoors. However, the similarities between the two window styles end here.

Benefits of Awning Windows

Awning windows get their name from the way they function. Hinged along the top, the sashes on these windows open outward, resembling the appearance of an awning. Thanks to their unique configuration, awning windows can provide ventilation during light rainstorms without letting water into the home. As far as size goes, awning windows tend to be shorter than casement windows. Their compact dimensions make them ideal for areas in the home with limited space, such as the basement, attic, or garage, or where privacy is of the utmost importance, such as the bathroom.

Benefits of Casement Windows

In essence, a casement window is an awning window rotated on its side. Casement windows are hinged along the side and operate by crank. Unlike awning windows, however, most casement windows can open as wide as 90 degrees, making them ideal for catching gusts of winds at various angles and channeling them indoors. Because casement windows require little leverage to open, they are the perfect window style for those hard-to-reach areas in the home.

The Best Awning Windows & Casement Windows in Wisconsin

Both awning windows and casement windows can make for wonderful additions to the home, depending on where they’re installed. If you’re looking for the perfect window replacement company to partner with for beautiful, long-lasting awning windows or casement windows, turn to RBA of Greater Wisconsin. We are the area’s exclusive provider of Renewal by Andersen^® replacement windows.

Whether you wish to have a couple awning windows installed in your basement so you can enjoy some fresh air even while it’s raining, or desire the convenience that comes with having casement windows installed in those tough-to-reach areas of your home, we’re just the team for the job. Our Certified Master Installers have undergone extensive training for installing Andersen products and will go the extra mile to ensure your windows function and look as expected. Contact RBA of Greater Wisconsin today to schedule your free consultation.