The Best Window Treatment for Awning Windows
Many homeowners enjoy the stunning views and flexibility awning windows add to a home. For many, they represent a unique style and serve a purpose that other traditional window types do not. There are many ways to decorate and treat awning windows in your home to help them maintain their beauty and function and stay stylish and efficient over time.
What does “Awning Window” mean?
An awning window is designed differently from traditional windows. Awning windows are hinged at the top of the window and open outward from the bottom. To open awning windows, you usually use a crank system to open them as far as you would like. Unlike traditional windows, awning windows provide additional levels of ventilation and natural light, especially useful in rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens, where steady ventilation is necessary. It’s also common to position awning windows higher up for privacy and security purposes.
When Should You Use Awning Windows?
Awning windows are an ideal choice for homeowners who would like to keep windows open without letting rain, snow, and other elements into the home. The protection from the elements makes them a good choice for all homes. Some homeowners prefer to use awning windows as the primary ventilation in their home instead of running an HVAC unit all year. With awning windows, you can keep your windows open for longer periods of time and in different weather because of their outward-opening functionality.
Awning windows also offer a good level of privacy when positioned higher on the wall, allowing air to circulate through the home while maintaining interior privacy. In some rooms where both ventilation and privacy are necessary, awning windows are a great option.
What Is the Difference Between a Casement Window and an Awning Window?
It is important to note that a casement window and an awning window have different features, although they are in the same window class. Casement windows are hinged on the side, opening outward to the left or right. Awning windows open upward from the bottom.
Are Awning Windows Energy-Efficient?
One of the best features of awning windows is their energy efficiency. Awning windows are designed to maintain the temperature within the home, and naturally circulate outdoor air when open. Once you add your preferred window treatment to your awning windows, the level of efficiency increases, depending on which type of treatment you choose.
Window Treatments for Awning Windows
Once you install awning windows, selecting a window treatment is the next step. Because awning windows are usually a narrow horizontal, rectangular shape, they need to be treated differently from other types and shapes of windows.
Using Window Film for Awning Windows
If you want to obstruct the view into your home for privacy purposes through your awning window, then window film is exactly what you need. Window film prevents UV rays from penetrating the window and damaging your furniture, as well as shielding the interior of your home from passers-by. Window film comes in hundreds of different designs and patterns to suit every taste.
Depending on your home’s style and theme, you can choose from an array of window film options for awning windows. Similar to other window treatment options, window film blocks harmful UV rays from entering your home and gives you another level of privacy. Many homeowners enjoy window film because it lets in natural light while also providing privacy.
Roman Shades for Awning Windows
If you are interested in boosting the elegance and style of your decor, Roman shades are a great option for your awning windows. Depending on your personal preferences, you can choose from the following styles:
- Soft-fold
- Flat-fold
- European
- Relaxed
These different types of Roman shades add pizzazz to any room and can be customized to complement your decor. Roman shades also come in a multitude of colors and can be tailored to match the color scheme of your room.
Bamboo Shades for Awning Windows
If you want to add a more natural look and earthy feel to your home, bamboo shades are a great window treatment option for awning windows. Bamboo shades are designed with eco-friendly, sustainable materials. They are similar to Roman shades but offer a different look and texture for those looking for a relaxed, neutral feel.
Both bamboo shades and Roman shades give your room a wholesome, coherent aesthetic and can help regulate temperature, provide privacy, and enhance the decor in your home.
Roller Shades and Cellular Shades for Awning Windows
Because most awning windows are horizontal and placed higher up on the wall, the window treatments used should be easy to clean and easy to open to let in maximum light and air, as well as manage the amount of light that enters your space. When roller shades are opened all the way, they are hidden away, allowing you to maximize the sunlight coming into your home at any time. They can be mounted above the window, allowing you to have privacy when you want it, and be able to close the shades when you choose. Like traditional window treatments, roller shades come in a variety of sizes to fit your awning window.
Another choice for awning windows is cellular shades. This type of window treatment provides temperature control and insulation, as well as light-blocking properties, and can be compressed to expose the maximum amount of window when you need it. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are ideal for windows that directly face the sun and regularly absorb heat. They are also easy to clean and come in a wide variety of colors and textures.
Choosing the Right Window Treatment for Awning Windows
The location of awning windows and how you plan to use them in your home will determine which awning window treatment is right for you. Because there is a wide range of options, you want to make sure you consider your choices carefully.
When you make a free consultation appointment with one of our designers at Budget Blinds, we’ll guide you through all the steps. We have a variety of window-treatment options, and we can assist you in maintaining your awning windows so you get the most out of them. Contact Budget Blinds today for more information, and let us help you choose the right window-treatment options for your home.