Which is better awning or sliding windows?

Affinity R&D Team

Choosing the right window can feel a little daunting.

Windows perform many functions that can make our home comfortable and enjoyable all year round.

Key aspects to consider when selecting windows include:

• Ventilation
• Thermal comfort
• Light capture efficiency
• Privacy capabilities
• Overall aesthetics

To help make your window decisions a little easier, this article will explore two types of windows that you commonly see in WA homes, awning and sliding windows.

Awning windows

Awning windows have been used for many years due to their versatility.

They are hinged at the top and open outwards from the bottom with a chain winder or hand crank. The part of the window that protrudes externally is called the ‘sash’.

The way the window opens allows for ventilation in all weather conditions including rainy days, which allows for comfortable airflow throughout your home at any time of the year.

Awning windows can be easily fitted with fly screens making them a great choice for Perth during the warmer months when you want to capture the sea breezes but keep those pesky flies or mosquitoes away!

Awning windows can be used in most areas of your home and are highly customisable, both in their dimensions and their aesthetics (such as frame material and colour). You will be able to match awning windows to the style of your current or future home with ease.

Awning windows can also create interesting architectural designs through grouping and placement, as awning windows can be located higher on walls than many other types of windows. High window placement allows you to enjoy natural light and ventilation while maintaining your privacy and retaining wall space for artwork and home decor.

When combined with high-performance glazing and a good quality frame, awning windows can provide excellent noise reduction and insulation, improving the overall energy efficiency of your home.

They are also a great choice for harder to reach positions including above kitchen benches and bathroom vanities.

An important aspect to consider with awning windows is the sash and how far it protrudes externally. This may affect pathways or alfresco areas outside your home.

Despite this, awning windows offer style and function versatility which makes them a great option for both contemporary and traditional-style homes.

Horizontal sliding windows are one of the most widely used window styles in Australia. They are mounted to effortlessly glide left or right past each other.

Although more options are available, typically we see two types of sliding windows, single sliders and double siders.

With single-sliders, one sash can slide and the other is fixed. With double-sliders, both sashes can slide. Sliding windows are often fitted with fly or security screens to keep out unwanted pests, improve ventilation, and increase security.

Sliding windows

Sliding windows are ideal for areas with limited space as there are no protrusions when they are opened. They are easy to operate and have no hinges, springs, or pulleys to replace, making them a simple and efficient window solution.

They are available in a wide range of standard and customisable sizes and can be quite large, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views and ample natural light.

Sliding windows are often categorised as a low-cost window solution, making them attractive to many homeowners. They can be framed in materials such as aluminium, timber, or Unplasticized Poly Vinyl Chloride (uPVC) which gives you the ability to match the aesthetics of your existing or new home.

Like awning windows, combining your sliding windows with high-performance glazing will improve the window’s energy efficiency.

However, unlike awning windows, sliding windows do not have compression seals and can let air drafts in, which can reduce your home’s energy efficiency.

Another downfall with sliding windows is that unless they have an external covering, they can’t be left open in all weather conditions unless you want a soggy house!

Overall, both sliding and awning windows offer homeowners flexibility and comfort. For all-weather ventilation and versatility, as well as increased thermal comfort, awning windows are a great solution.

However, if you’re looking for something economical to suit a larger space and bring in light and air, it might be best to consider sliding windows.

A combination of both window styles can provide an effective solution to a year-round comfortable home.

If you would like further help in choosing window styles for your home, don’t hesitate to speak with our friendly sales team at Affinity Windows, Perth window experts.

Contact Affinity Windows today on 9334 4600 to help decide which window style best suits your home!