Casement and Awning Windows in Pittsburgh

Casement and awning windows are hinged windows that open with a crank instead of sliding. When they close, the sash presses against the weatherstripping all the way around the frame, which is why casement and awning windows seal the tightest of any operating window style. For homeowners who want the best energy performance from a window that opens, they are hard to beat.

Our published range for quality vinyl double hung windows is $450 to $1,200 per window installed. Casement and awning windows cost more than that standard range, and we price them at your free in home quote so the number reflects your exact openings, glass and trim.

Casement vs Awning: What Is the Difference?

Both styles use the same idea: a single sash on hinges, opened with a crank handle and locked tight against the frame. The difference is the direction they open.

• Casement windows are hinged on the side and swing out like a door. The open sash catches passing breezes and directs them into the room, so casements ventilate very well for their size.
• Awning windows are hinged at the top and swing out from the bottom. Because the open sash forms a little roof over the opening, you can often leave an awning window cracked during a light rain.

The two are often combined. A large picture window with awning windows below it, or casements on each side of a fixed center unit, gives you a big view and fresh air in one opening.

Why Casement and Awning Windows Seal So Well

Sliding windows and double hung windows rely on sashes that move past each other, so their weatherstripping has to allow movement. A casement or awning sash does not slide. It closes straight onto the frame, and the lock pulls it tight against the seal on all four sides. That compression is what makes these styles the most airtight operating windows available. Pair that with double or triple pane low E glass and a properly sealed and flashed installation, and you get a window that stays comfortable through a Pittsburgh January.

Where They Work Best

• Over the kitchen sink. Reaching across a counter to lift a sash is awkward. A crank handle is easy to turn with one hand.
• Bathrooms. An awning window placed high on the wall lets steam out while keeping privacy.
• Hard to reach spots. Above a tub, behind furniture or over stairs, a crank is simpler than lifting.
• Next to picture windows. Casements on either side of a fixed unit add ventilation without breaking up the view. See our picture windows page for combinations.
• Modern and contemporary homes. The clean, undivided sash suits newer architecture.
• Basements. Awning windows are a common choice for basement openings. Our basement and egress windows page covers those projects.

Things to Consider

Casement windows swing outward, so think about what is outside the window. A sash that opens over a walkway, deck or patio can get in the way. In those spots, a double hung window or a sliding window stays within the frame. Screens on casement and awning windows sit on the inside, which keeps them out of the weather. Crank hardware is durable, but it is a moving part, so quality matters. We walk through all of this at your free quote and recommend the right style opening by opening.

Comparing styles? Our article on double hung versus casement windows lays out the tradeoffs.

Cost to Replace Casement and Awning Windows

Casement and awning windows cost more than a standard vinyl double hung because of the hinge and crank hardware and the heavier sash construction. Size, glass package, frame material and whether the opening needs a full frame replacement all affect the price. We price them at your free in home quote. If you are replacing a mix of styles, our window price estimator gives you a starting range for the standard windows, and we fill in the rest at the quote.

How We Install Them

Every opening is measured for a custom fit. We remove the old window, check the frame and sill for rot, and choose insert or full frame replacement based on what we find. The new window is leveled, shimmed so the sash closes evenly against the seal, insulated and sealed. Outside, we flash the opening and cap the exterior wood trim with aluminum or vinyl so there is nothing left to paint. Each opening typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. Learn more about our full process on the main window replacement page.

Why Homeowners Choose Bella for Windows

Bella Construction has worked on Western Pennsylvania homes since 1995 from our shop in Irwin. We have completed more than 10,000 projects, hold a 4.7 star Google rating and an A+ BBB rating, and we are licensed under PA050898. As a full exterior contractor with Owens Corning Platinum Preferred and James Hardie Master credentials, we handle the window and everything around it: flashing, exterior trim capping and the siding that ties into the opening. You get published pricing, a written quote and no pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are casement windows more energy efficient than double hung?

Casement and awning windows seal the tightest of any operating style because the sash closes straight onto the frame and the lock pulls it tight against the weatherstripping on all four sides.

What is the difference between a casement and an awning window?

A casement window is hinged on the side and swings out like a door. An awning window is hinged at the top and swings out from the bottom, which lets you leave it open in a light rain.

How much do casement windows cost to replace?

Casement and awning windows cost more than our standard vinyl double hung range of $450 to $1,200 per window installed. We price them at a free in home quote based on size, glass and frame material.

Where should I use casement windows?

They work especially well over kitchen sinks, in bathrooms, in hard to reach spots and on either side of a picture window. Avoid casements where the open sash would swing into a walkway or deck.

Do casement windows have screens?

Yes. Screens on casement and awning windows mount on the inside of the window, which keeps them protected from the weather.