Awning windows are a highly favored choice among homeowners, offering exceptional curb appeal, versatility, and energy efficiency. These windows consist of a single pane hinged at the top, allowing for the circulation of fresh air even during rainy weather. When closed, they create an airtight seal against the frame, effectively preventing drafts. Their user-friendly operation makes them perfect for hard-to-reach areas, such as above kitchen countertops or in the rooms with high-ceilings.
If you’re considering the installation of new awning windows in Monmouth County NJ and want to ensure they are tailored to your needs, Deluxe Windows specializes in providing customized awning window solutions that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also offer practical benefits. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation or to get a personalized quote.
What Is An Awning Window?
An awning window, characterized by top-mounted hinges, swings open from the bottom, projecting outwards. It is similar to casement and hopper windows, featuring a single sash operated by a hand crank for opening and closing. These windows are typically rectangular, wider than they are tall. When opened, the extended glass pane creates a protective overhang, resembling an awning, which is the origin of its name.
How Does An Awning Window Work?
Awning windows operate by using a crank mechanism for effortless opening and closing. This feature makes them easier to manage compared to slider windows.
To open the awning window, simply unlock the latches on both sides. Then, extend the crank handle and rotate it until the window reaches your desired angle. Some awning windows can open up to a 90-degree angle.
Closing the window is equally straightforward. Turn the handle in the opposite direction until the window is fully closed, and secure it by locking both sides.
Where Are Awning Windows Typically Installed?
Awning windows offer great versatility and are suitable for various rooms in a house due to their unique design features.
Bathroom: Prioritizing privacy, awning windows can be installed high on the wall in bathrooms. This placement allows for both ventilation and natural light, while ensuring privacy from outside view. They are ideal for year-round air circulation, being operable in diverse weather conditions.
Bedroom: For those wanting to keep their bedroom windows open without compromising security, awning windows are an excellent choice. They allow fresh air to flow in while maintaining a sense of safety.
Kitchen: Awning windows are particularly useful in kitchens where windows need to be placed over furniture or fixtures. Their design facilitates easy opening, even when placed above sinks or wide counters, and ensures continuous air circulation.
Complementing Picture Windows: Often installed above picture windows, awning windows provide unobstructed views while enhancing room ventilation.
Low-Level Installations: Due to their enhanced security features, awning windows are ideal for ground-level and below-grade installations, like basements. They offer excellent ventilation and can stay open in various weather conditions, making them a secure and practical choice for areas where safety is paramount.
Ground Floor Rooms: For additional security on the ground floor, awning windows are a preferred option. Their design offers both safety and functionality, making them a wise choice for accessible yet secure home areas.
The Benefits of Awning Windows
Awning windows offer a multitude of benefits, combining aesthetics with practical advantages.
Enhanced Ventilation and Natural Light: Awning windows excel in providing excellent ventilation while allowing abundant natural light to brighten your space. Even in tight or hard-to-reach areas of your home, these windows offer the refreshing benefits of fresh air and sunlight.
Noise Reduction: Awning-style windows feature a single pane of glass enclosed by a secure seal, resulting in fewer potential air leakage points than most window types. This feature is especially valuable in areas with elevated noise levels, as it effectively muffles external sounds when the windows are closed, promoting restful sleep indoors.
Energy Efficiency: The minimal air escape potential due to their design makes awning windows highly energy-efficient. When equipped with quality double-glazed glass, they offer exceptional insulation, reducing overall energy costs. This enhanced energy rating also positively impacts your home’s value.
All-Weather Operation: Exterior awning windows are designed to provide shelter for the window opening when open, enabling them to remain functional even during rain showers. Their resistance to wind, which typically strikes from the side, makes them ideal for homes in windy areas.
Affordability: Awning windows are generally more cost-effective than many other window styles. Their uncomplicated design and straightforward installation process ensure a hassle-free replacement if needed. As a practical and adaptable choice, awning windows suit a variety of homes and budgets.
Security: Positioned high on the wall and often smaller in size, awning windows present a challenge to potential intruders. Their design minimizes the risk of break-ins while preserving natural light within the room.
Unobstructed Views: Awning windows lack rails or a single sash, offering clear, unobstructed views of the outdoors, enhancing your connection to the surrounding environment.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Awning Windows?
While awning windows offer numerous advantages, they also come with a few disadvantages worth considering. Here are four important considerations:
Unsuitable for High-Traffic Areas: Awning windows open outward, which makes them less suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic outside. It’s best to avoid installing awning windows if they would open onto a porch, deck, or walkway. Local regulations may even prohibit their use if they would open onto a busy sidewalk. Additionally, ensure that any potential obstructions, such as trees or bushes, are positioned at a sufficient distance from the window to allow for unobstructed opening.
Cleaning Challenges: Awning windows are more exposed to rain and outdoor elements than other window types, which may necessitate more frequent cleaning. When these windows are positioned high on a wall or on the upper stories of your home and do not open fully to a 90-degree angle, cleaning them can be challenging.
Maintenance and Repairs: The mechanism used to open and close awning windows is relatively complex and undergoes significant wear and tear. Consequently, awning windows may require more frequent maintenance and repairs compared to some other window types.
Limited Use as Escape Routes: Building regulations typically require a certain number of windows on the upper floors of your home to serve as designated escape routes. Awning windows often do not meet the criteria for these escape routes due to their typical size, placement, and outward-opening mechanism, which may limit their functionality in emergency situations.
When considering awning windows for your home, it’s essential to weigh these disadvantages against their benefits to determine if they align with your specific needs and preferences.
Awning Window Sizes
Awning windows come in a variety of size options to cater to various property layouts, ensuring homeowners can find the perfect fit for their unique space. While there is no one-size-fits-all standard, some sizes are more commonly available. Moreover, customizing awning windows is an option when pre-made sizes do not align with your needs.
Standard Awning Window Sizes
Awning window sizes can vary widely, with widths ranging from 19 3/4 inches to 60 inches and heights from 16 inches to 42 inches. This broad size range makes it easy to locate an awning window that suits almost any location. Smaller awning windows work well for providing ventilation in compact rooms, while larger ones are ideal for spaces like family rooms and bedrooms, where plenty of natural light and unobstructed outdoor views are sought-after.
Tailored Awning Windows
Recognizing that every home and building is unique, custom awning windows can be tailored to specific requirements when standard sizes don’t quite fit the bill. Customized awning windows can be designed to match your precise specifications, ensuring a seamless integration into your space. Beyond custom sizing, these windows can include a variety of additional features, such as double- or triple-pane glass, decorative grids, and frames available in colors that complement the overall aesthetic of your property.
Materials Used for Awning Windows
Selecting the right material for your windows depends on factors like your budget, maintenance preferences, architectural style, and climate conditions. Each material has its advantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs when making your choice.
Vinyl: Vinyl windows are a popular choice due to their affordability, low maintenance requirements, and excellent insulation properties. They resist moisture, rot, and fading, making them ideal for humid or coastal environments.
Wood: Wooden windows offer a timeless, classic look and can be stained or painted to match your home’s decor. However, they require regular maintenance to protect against rot and pests. High-quality wood options can be more expensive but provide excellent aesthetics.
Aluminum: Aluminum windows are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. They are often chosen for modern or industrial-style homes. While they offer good strength and insulation, they may not be as energy-efficient as other materials.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows combine strength and low maintenance. They resist warping, cracking, and fading, making them a durable option. Fiberglass windows can be painted or finished to achieve a custom look.
Composite: Composite windows are constructed from a blend of materials, such as wood fibers and resins. They offer the aesthetics of wood with enhanced durability and resistance to moisture and pests.
Clad: Clad options feature an exterior layer of aluminum or vinyl that provides added protection against the elements while maintaining the interior’s wood appearance. This combination offers both aesthetic appeal and durability.
Our Installation Process
At Deluxe Windows, we take pride in delivering not only top-quality awning windows but also a seamless installation experience. Our installation process is designed to guarantee your complete satisfaction and the long-lasting performance of your windows. Here’s a detailed look at how we handle awning window installations:
1. Consultation and Measurement
We begin by conducting a comprehensive consultation to understand your specific needs and preferences. Our expert team takes precise measurements of your window openings to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Custom Window Selection
Based on your preferences, we help you choose the ideal awning window style, material, and finish to complement your home’s aesthetics.
3. Pre-Installation Inspection
Before installation day, our team conducts a thorough inspection to confirm that all materials and products are in excellent condition.
4. Professional Installation
Our skilled and certified installers arrive on the scheduled installation day, equipped with the necessary tools and materials. We position the awning windows accurately within the openings, ensuring a level and secure fit.
5. Secure Fastening & Weatherproofing
We use industry-standard fasteners to securely attach the windows to the surrounding structure. Care is taken to adhere to recommended spacing and placement guidelines to guarantee stability.
We apply high-quality weatherproofing measures to seal any potential gaps or seams around the window frames. This step is crucial in preventing drafts and water infiltration.
6. Functionality Testing & Finishing Touches
Our team conducts rigorous testing to verify that the awning windows open and close smoothly and lock securely. We want to ensure that our windows meet the highest standards of functionality and ease of use.
If necessary, we complete any finishing touches, such as trimming and painting, to match the window’s appearance with your home’s interior and exterior.
7. Cleanup
We responsibly dispose of any debris, packaging materials, and tools used during the installation process.
8. Customer Satisfaction
We conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure your complete satisfaction with our awning window installation. We address any questions or concerns you may have and provide care and maintenance instructions to keep your windows in optimal condition.
Awning Windows Monmouth County NJ
When it comes to installing awning windows in the Monmouth County, New Jersey area, Deluxe Windows is your trusted choice. We stand out by offering tailored solutions that match the unique needs and preferences of every homeowner
At Deluxe Windows, we understand that each home is distinct, and our mission is to help you discover the ideal window solution that not only enhances your home’s appearance but also delivers practical benefits. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect awning windows to the final installation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on enhancing your living space.