- An awning window is a window hinged at the top that opens outwards from the bottom, forming a small “awning” over the opening.
- Because the sash tilts outward and downward, awning windows can stay open during light rain while still letting fresh air in.
- They suit warm, humid and coastal climates, and they help older homes with poor cross ventilation reduce moisture and mould risk.
- Kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, bedrooms and high wall positions are the ideal placements.
- Choose double glazed awning windows with quality seals and multi-point locking for the best thermal comfort, acoustic performance and security.
There are numerous styles of windows available on the market these days, ranging from casement and sash to transom. They each have several differences, mostly related to how they open and how they are fixed to the building, and each one has a slightly different use.
Which one is right for you will depend on the look you want, the building you are working with, and the sort of climate you live in.
Awning windows are one of the most popular styles of window. Put simply, they are casement windows hinged at the top, opening forwards and outwards like a garage door or the awning at the side of a campervan (hence the name).
They are one of the most traditional and versatile window styles, with a timeless look that suits any style of building. Not only that, but they are energy efficient and easy to use. Let us explore some of the benefits of this style of window.
What Is an Awning Window?
An awning window is a top-hinged window that swings outward from the base, usually operated by a winder, a stay or a friction hinge. The open sash sits at an angle above the opening, which shelters the gap from falling rain.
This is the key difference between an awning window and a standard casement window, which is hinged at the side and swings out sideways, offering no overhead protection when open.
What Are the Benefits of Awning Windows?
We are lucky to enjoy a lot of glorious sunshine here in Australia, but if you are closer to the coast, the rainfall can be intense. This is where awning windows really shine.
With their hinges at the top, they can open outwards and let in cooler air without also letting in rain. Most other styles of window cannot offer this, making awning windows the ideal choice if you live in a warm, wet climate.
The main advantages include:
- Rain-friendly ventilation. The open sash acts as a small hood, so you can leave the window ajar during a shower.
- Better airflow control. Small openings still deliver noticeable air movement, which is useful for overnight ventilation.
- Strong weather sealing. When closed, the sash compresses against the frame gaskets, creating a tight, draught-free seal.
- Security. Awning sashes are commonly fitted with multi-point locking hardware that pulls the sash into the frame at several points.
- Design flexibility. They stack well above fixed glass, sit neatly in high wall positions, and pair easily with other window styles.
Another benefit of awning windows is versatility. Depending on where you source your awning windows from, you can get them in a wide range of materials, styles and sizes.
Whether you want a sleek and modern feel or a more rustic, traditional look, well-made awning windows will slot seamlessly into your home. Frame options typically include uPVC, thermally broken aluminium, timber and timber and aluminium composite.
Awning Windows Compared With Other Window Styles
Every window style has a job it does best. This table shows how awning windows compare with the other options you will come across when browsing a full range of window styles.
| Window style | How it opens | Ventilation in rain | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awning | Hinged at the top, swings outward from the base | Good, the open sash shelters the opening | Kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, high wall positions |
| Casement | Hinged at the side, swings outward | Limited, rain can enter the opening | Living areas and wide, unobstructed views |
| Double hung or sash | Sashes slide vertically within the frame | Limited | Heritage and period-style facades |
| Sliding | Panels slide horizontally | Limited | Large openings and tight external spaces |
| Tilt and turn | Tilts inward at the top or swings fully inward | Good in tilt position | Secure ventilation plus easy cleaning access |
What Can Awning Windows Be Used For?
Awning windows make the perfect addition to any home, thanks to their timeless style and versatility. Where they work particularly well, though, is in older homes, which may struggle with good ventilation.
With the option to leave your awning windows open for extended periods, even when it is raining, you can maximise the airflow in your home and reduce the risk of moisture building up. Left unaddressed, that moisture can lead to condensation, damp and mould.
For the eco-conscious homeowner, awning windows are also an excellent way to improve energy efficiency. When closed, they create a secure seal, preventing conditioned indoor air from escaping and outdoor air from getting in. This keeps your home refreshingly cool in the hot summer months and comfortably warm in the cold winter months.
The thermal benefit improves further when the awning sash is glazed as a double glazed unit. A double glazed awning window uses two panes separated by a sealed cavity, which slows heat transfer far more effectively than a single pane. Adding a Low-E coating and an argon-filled cavity improves the result again, which is why uPVC double glazed windows are a popular choice for retrofits and new builds alike.
Where Is the Ideal Placement for Awning Windows?
As with any style of window, awning windows will work well anywhere, but they offer the best advantages when used in the right areas. Even the most stylish, well-made window will be a little underwhelming if it is not installed in the right place.
So, where is the right place? Anywhere you particularly want to improve airflow. Consider these positions:
- Kitchens. Ideal above a bench or splashback to clear steam, smoke and cooking odours.
- Bathrooms and laundries. High-level awning sashes vent humid air while maintaining privacy.
- Bedrooms. A slightly open sash gives secure night ventilation without letting rain in.
- Above or below fixed glass. A great way to add opening ventilation to a large picture window without breaking the view.
- Narrow side passages. The outward swing works where an inward opening sash would clash with furniture.
The kitchen is a perfect example. Just imagine this: you are cooking on the stove with several pots and pans, all boiling, and there is steam everywhere. Sounds stressful, right? Sure, you can switch on the exhaust fan, but that uses extra energy, and let us be honest, it never works as quickly as we would like.
Open an awning window instead, and all that humid air, smoke and odour can escape while crisp, clean outside air flows in to replace it. One simple change, and you have a fresher, cleaner space to work in.
Do Awning Windows Suit Australian Conditions?
Yes. Awning windows perform well across very different Australian climates because they combine sheltered ventilation with a tight seal when closed.
- Adelaide. Hot, dry summers and cool, damp winters reward windows that seal tightly and can be opened for night purging. Explore options for windows and doors in Adelaide.
- Sydney. Coastal humidity and heavy summer downpours make rain-tolerant ventilation genuinely useful, and quality glazing helps with traffic noise in built-up suburbs. See what windows are available for homes across Sydney.
- Canberra. Cold winter mornings and frost mean thermal performance matters most, so double or triple glazed awning sashes are a smart pairing.
If you would like to learn more about awning windows, get in touch with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you leave an awning window open when it is raining?
In most cases, yes. Because the sash is hinged at the top and angles outwards, it shields the opening from falling rain, so light to moderate rain will run off the glass rather than into the room. In driving rain or strong wind, the window should be closed.
What is the difference between an awning window and a casement window?
An awning window is hinged at the top and opens outwards from the bottom. A casement window is hinged at the side and swings outwards like a door. The top hinge is what gives awning windows their rain protection and their suitability for high wall positions.
Are awning windows energy efficient?
Awning windows are among the more energy efficient opening styles because the sash presses against continuous gaskets when closed, creating a draught-free seal. Efficiency improves further with double or triple glazing, Low-E glass, an argon-filled cavity and a thermally efficient frame material such as uPVC.
Are awning windows secure?
Quality awning windows are very secure. They are typically fitted with multi-point locking hardware that engages the sash into the frame at several points, and the outward opening design offers no easy leverage point from outside.
