Awning windows are a type of window design that allows the window sash to swing outward rather than inward or up and down. Once in common use in schools, manufacturing plants and some homes prior to the advent of air conditioning in those environments, this type of window is still sometimes utilized in the design for newer homes in temperate climates. The window may be operated with a hand crank or with the use of pull chains.
One of the most common examples of the awning window can be found in manufacturing plants and schools that were built between the 1920’s and 1950’s. In both cases, the windows normally involved large sashes that were composed of pane glass surrounded with metal framing. Depending on the application, the panes could be either large sections of glass that took up the entire frame, or a series of smaller panes encased within the structure of the frame. These examples of awning windows normally were operated with pull chains, since they tended to reach all the way to the tall ceilings of the day. When situated properly in the design, opening the windows could allow a cross current which helped to cool the interior.
Many homes built in the 1940’s through the early 1960’s also made use of the awning window. In these instances, the panes were normally hinged at the top and made use of hand cranks to open and close the sashes. The hand crank made it possible to position the window sashes at any desired point, which meant the homeowner could retract the windows in the event of rain, but still leave them open to catch a breeze. When desired, the windows could be rolled out fully and allow a steady flow of fresh air into the space.
As air conditioning systems became more common in both homes and public buildings, the awning window began to fall out of favor. Some home owners chose to replace these windows with a more conventional up and down sliding style, noting that some designs of the awning window would eventually fail to close fully and inhibit the ability to heat the home during cooler months. Still, there are plenty of homes around today, especially in areas with moderate temperatures that feature the windows. The awning window is still available for new construction, as well as for replacing windows in older homes.
