Awning Windows vs. Sliding Windows: Understanding Windows
Many homeowners don't know the difference between sliding and awning windows. This guide gives you deep insights into these window styles.
06/05/2019
What Is the Difference Between Sliding and Awning Windows?
Do you have a traditional home where almost all the windows are broken, and it is becoming more uncomfortable to live in? Perhaps, you have a modern home, but the currently installed windows don't impress you. Then you know that you need to renovate it and replace the old windows with the new Brampton windows.
But what do you know about different styles of windows? When it comes to shopping for windows, you should do your research. Various window styles serve different needs. Here are some aspects you ought to understand about sliding and awning windows. Take a look.
1. Sliding Windows.
Sliding windows resembles sliding doors and operate the same. To operate it, you slide it on the track either from the left or to the right depending on the manufacturer. Most of these window styles are designed with two glass panes which overlap when you open the window. The main distinguishing aspect of these window styles is that they open horizontally. However, you should not confuse them with single hung windows which are typically operated by sliding the panel from the bottom to the top.
a. Pros.
Short walls - the width of the sliding windows is greater than the height. So, they are the best designs to use in homes with short walls. These windows are mostly installed in kitchens and bathrooms.
Room to decorate - because sliding windows have a longer width than the height, you can place the furniture below the window glass without pushing it to the glass.
Easy to maintain - the design is simple and therefore easy to maintain. This involves regularly wiping the glass and lubricating the track.
Long lifespan - since their maintenance is simple and don’t have many parts. Sliding windows tend to last for a long time.
b. Cons.
Less energy efficient - one limitation of sliding windows is that they don’t offer excellent insulation when closed.
Weatherproofing hassle - it is difficult to weatherproof sliding windows. This is because the seal in the track cannot be tightened since it should allow space for free sliding.
2. Awning Windows.
These are hinged window designs. They can come with either single or double panes. Double pane windows style consists of two glass panes the bottom pane is the one that opens while the upper one remains fixed.
a. Pros
- Naturally weatherproof- these windows are weatherproof because of their awning-like-qualities.
- Enhanced view- awning windows that come with single pane glass offer the same view as the picture window.
- They offer better insulation and are energy effective.
- They are also more secure.
b. Cons
- Block pathways-since they open outwards, they block pathways passing near your wall.
- They require high maintenance.
- They are also difficult to access.