When considering a home improvement project, awning windows can be a great choice if you want a window solution that is both stylish and functional. Awning windows are hinged at the top, so they can open outward from the bottom to allow fresh air to enter your home. They offer a variety of benefits, but there are also a few drawbacks to be aware of before you decide if awning windows are right for your home.
In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of awning windows in New Orleans so you can make an informed decision about whether these windows are a good fit for your home. They are an especially practical option here, where afternoon rain showers roll through the New Orleans metro for much of the year.
Pros of Awning Windows
Awning windows offer a number of benefits, including:
Increased Ventilation
Awning windows open outward from the bottom, allowing air to enter your home while keeping out wind and rain. Because the sash angles over the opening like a small roof, you can leave them cracked during a passing New Orleans downpour and still pull in a breeze, which makes them a great choice for our humid, rainy climate.
Security
The dual-locking mechanism used in slider windows is normally activated by two latches located where the window frame and sash meet on either side of the window. Low vertical height constraints enable windows to be positioned high on walls, enhancing seclusion and making the forced entrance more challenging.
Versatility
High Durability
Awning windows are made from a strong material, such as vinyl or aluminum, which makes them highly durable and a great choice for areas with harsh weather conditions. In a city that sees heavy storm seasons and constant Gulf moisture, installing awning windows can help to protect your home against moisture intrusion from the outside.
Energy Efficiency
Awning windows are a great choice for increasing your home’s energy efficiency. The awning design allows air to enter from the bottom of the window while preventing heat from escaping, which can help reduce your heating and cooling costs during our long New Orleans summers.
Easy to Operate
A simple hand crank is used to open and close awning windows. This makes them extremely simple to open and close and keeps the window from becoming trapped in one place. This style of window is so simple to use that older homeowners with arthritis and other health issues that may limit their strength and mobility frequently choose it.
Cons of Awning Windows
Despite the many benefits of awning windows, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
- Limited View: Since awning windows open outward from the bottom, they can limit your ability to see outside when opened.
- Limited Airflow: While awning windows allow for some amount of ventilation, their design limits the amount of airflow when compared to other window designs.
- Cost: Installing awning windows may be more expensive than other types of window installation due to the specialized design and materials required.
- Cleaning: Awning windows can be a bit more challenging to clean due to their design. Their slant makes a few areas difficult to reach when dusting and cleaning, which can be aggravating for some homeowners.
Are Awning Windows a Good Choice for Your Home?
When deciding if awning windows are a good fit for your home, consider the pros and cons carefully. If you decide awning windows are right for you, be sure to work with a reliable local contractor who can properly install them and ensure they will perform well through New Orleans storm seasons.
Big Easy Windows provides top-notch window installation services to homeowners across New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, and Slidell that can help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about our awning windows benefits and get started on your next project!
