Everything You Need To Know About Awning Vs. Hopper Windows
With so many options, choosing window types that match your needs and style can be tricky. When it comes to deciding between an awning window or a hopper window in Virginia Beach, VA, there are a few key distinctions you must be aware of.
First, you need to know the various awning and hopper window features that make them unique.
What Are Awning & Hopper Windows?
Hopper windows and awning windows are extremely similar windows that are both designed to allow in lots of airflow. There is only one difference: where the hinge is placed.
Awning Windows
Awning and hopper windows look almost identical when closed but differ in the way they open. Awning windows hinge at the top and are opened by cranking the bottom out.
This creates a small awning-style cover over the window opening, hence the name. Because the window provides a protective covering, they are great for rainy or especially sunny climates. In fact, that is one of the main benefits of awning windows.
Hopper Windows
Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom, so when they’re opened, they tilt slightly inward. This makes it ideal for ventilating smaller spaces without letting in dust or debris.
They are usually installed toward the top of the wall in basements, bathrooms, or other places with limited window ventilation options.
They are excellent for letting light into rooms where privacy is valued or small spaces where double-hung windows or other window types won’t fit.
What Are The Benefits Of Awning Vs. Hopper Windows?
Awning and hopper windows come with their own benefits and advantages. Choosing the right option for you is a matter of weighing those pros and cons. Here’s what we have to say about it:
Increased Energy Efficiency
When it comes to awning vs. hopper windows, there are some categories where both come up winners, and that’s the case for energy efficiency.
Both awning and hopper windows score high on energy efficiency, which is an important factor in deciding which windows to install in your home in Virginia.
Faulty windows that aren’t airtight can cause your energy bills to increase dramatically and affect the climate inside your home.
Luckily, both awning windows and hopper windows have a compression seal to create an airtight defense when the window is closed.
The seal eliminates the gap between the window sash and frame, keeping out the outside weather, draftiness, and moisture.
Hopper Windows Can Improve Safety
The award for safety goes to the hopper window. Because the hopper window tilts inward, it makes for a more natural security deterrent. By design, they are typically small, so they are great for spaces that need natural ventilation but also value security.
Awning Windows Provide Better Ventilation
Score extra bonus points to the awning window in this category, as they have been shown to improve ventilation in your home. Awning windows hinge at the top and open outward so you can leave your awning window open in any weather to let in fresh air and natural lighting.
Both Are Space Savers
Both hopper and awning windows are small but mighty. They are designed to provide maximum natural light and ventilation in spaces that can’t fit larger sized windows.
Keeping Your Hopper Vs. Awning Windows Clean
Hopper windows win the cleanliness award. Because the hopper window was originally designed to allow for air movement but limit dust and debris from coming into the home, hopper windows are great choices for the lower levels and basement area of the home.
Plus, the hopper window is easier to clean than the awning window because the hopper window tilts inside the home versus the awning window that hinges outward.
So, Which Window Is Right For You?
Both styles of windows have pros and cons to their designs. When deciding between a hopper or awning window, determine the function of the window to help you choose.
Selecting the right window and door styles is a big part of home improvement, and it’s something we take seriously here at Thompson Creek.
Contact Thompson Creek For A Free Consultation
Need guidance? Allow our seasoned Thompson Creek experts to assist you. Call us today at (301) 880–4474 or get in touch with us here for a free in-person or virtual consultation. Elevate the look of your Virginia Beach, VA, residence with our top-tier replacement windows.