What are the features to look for in an awning window?
- Frame
- Glass
- Seals
- Drainage
- Mechanism
- Locks
- Handles
- Screen
Overview
- Awning windows enhance homes with ventilation, natural light, and energy efficiency, but their performance depends on quality components.
- Proper feature selections, such as frames, glass, seals, drainage, and precision installation, ensure long-term reliability.
- Dwellsmith provides expertly engineered awning windows with aluminum frames, superior security, and lasting durability.
Windows play a bigger role than many would realize. They don’t just frame the view or let natural light in—they influence energy efficiency, ventilation, and aesthetic appeal.
Among the many styles available, awning windows have become a top choice because it has practical features in tropical climates like the Philippines.
However, not all are built equally. From durable aluminum frames to secure locking systems, the right combination of key features ensures long-term value and performance.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the features to look for in an awning window so you can make a smart, lasting investment.
Frame
The frame serves as the backbone of an awning window, providing the essential structure that supports the sash and glass.
It is composed of vertical and horizontal sections, which define the window’s shape. Frames should be properly and securely fit within the wall opening to achieve optimal functionality.
In addition, a well-built frame enhances the window’s ability to withstand environmental stresses such as wind pressure and impact. The choice of frame material—whether it’s aluminum, wood, or fiberglass—plays a crucial role in durability and performance.
Certain advanced frame types are even designed to accommodate insulated or thermally efficient glass.
Glass
The glass, or glazing, is the transparent component fitted within the window frame. It serves as both a visual and functional centerpiece.
Awning windows can feature single, double, or triple glazing, depending on the desired level of thermal insulation needs.
Each glass panel is securely sealed using high-performance glazing techniques that improve strength, energy efficiency, and resistance to breakage. You can choose from several types of glass to match specific needs:
Tempered Glass: Heat-treated for enhanced strength, which is four times more durable than regular glass. When broken, it shatters into blunt pieces for improved safety.
Laminated Glass: Composed of two or more glass layers bonded with an interlayer, it remains intact upon impact.
Insulated Glass: Features two or more panes separated by a sealed air or gas-filled space to reduce heat transfer.
Seals
Though often hidden from sight, seals are essential components that ensure the overall performance and longevity of awning windows. They maintain airtightness and watertightness to prevent air leaks, moisture buildup, and energy loss.
Awning windows commonly use compression seals, positioned between the window sash and frame. When the window closes, the sash presses firmly against the seal, creating a tight and secure closure.
For optimal functionality, professional installation is crucial to ensure that seals fit perfectly and remain intact over time.
Drainage
Even windows are engineered with drainage systems, and this is especially common in awning windows made of aluminum.
This component features small openings called weep holes, usually found along the exterior bottom of the frame or sill track.
Their primary function is to collect and expel any water that slips past the outer seal. It prevents water from accumulating within the frame or leaking into interior walls. This safeguards the structure against rot, mold, and long-term moisture damage.
Mechanism
The mechanism comprises all the moving hardware components that enable smooth and controlled window operation. By turning the handle, users can easily open or close the sash, which pivots outward on top-mounted or side-mounted hinges.
For lasting performance, the mechanism must be precisely engineered and firmly anchored to both the frame and sash.
Using high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials ensures that it endures frequent operation and outdoor exposure without stiffness or wear.
Locks
Locks are essential security features in awning windows, pulling the sash firmly against the frame to resist forced entry.
A typical awning window lock consists of three main components:
- Lock Handle: A lever used to operate the locking mechanism; it is pulled vertically to unlock and doubles as a handle for opening the window.
- Lock Bezel: A decorative cover that conceals the locking hardware, providing a polished, finished appearance.
- Keeper: This piece is attached to the window frame that the lock handle engages with to secure the sash.
Many modern awning windows feature multi-point locking systems for enhanced security and tighter seals. High-quality locks ensure smooth operation, making opening, closing, and securing the window both easy and reliable.
Handles
In awning windows, a crank handle is typically used, positioned at the base or side of the frame. It allows users to control the outward swing of the top-hinged sash, offering precise ventilation adjustment.
Crank handles may come with locking or non-locking options depending on the window’s placement and security requirements.
What Makes Dwellsmith a Superb Quality Choice for Awning Windows
Dwellsmith stands out with our excellently engineered awning windows that provide reliable protection for homes and buildings in the Philippines. Each window features aluminum frames, weather-sealed joints, and a variety of glass options to suit different needs.
On top of our superb quality systems that come with a 10-year triple-protect warranty, our installation process is handled with precision by a Euro-certified team. With us, you can ensure that we deliver premium materials and consistent quality, offering long-lasting value.
Key Takeaway
Awning windows are more than just design features—they are functional investments. Paying attention to essential components ensures durability and optimal performance over time.
For trusted solutions, Dwellsmith offers expertly engineered awning windows with premium aluminum frames. We guarantee lasting durability and superior security. Contact us today!
