If you live in Winnipeg, you know that windows aren’t just about aesthetics – they’re about surviving the seasons. With our bone-chilling winters, strong winds, and unpredictable weather, choosing the right windows is crucial. If you’re looking to install replacement windows that offer ventilation, energy efficiency, and protection from the elements, awning windows might be exactly what you need.
But before you make a decision, let’s dive into everything you need to know, from costs to customization, energy efficiency, and even how they compare to other windows. This guide will help you make the right choice for your home.
What Are Awning Windows?
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom using a crank handle. Think of them like a tiny, built-in awning – they let fresh air in while keeping rain and snow out. This makes them perfect for Winnipeg’s unpredictable weather because you can still get airflow even when it’s drizzling or snowing lightly.
If you’ve ever been frustrated by stiff sliding windows or struggled to get good ventilation without exposing your home to the elements, installing awning windows is a game-changer.
Why Are Awning Windows Perfect for Winnipeg Homes?
We don’t need to tell you that Winnipeg’s winters are brutal, but let’s talk about why that matters when choosing windows. A poorly insulated window will make your home feel drafty, cold, and expensive to heat. Awning windows are designed to seal tightly when closed, preventing heat loss and keeping your energy bills in check.
Top Benefits of Awning Windows:
- Energy Efficiency: Winnipeg’s extreme temperatures mean your windows must be well-insulated. Awning windows use compression seals, which create a tight, airtight fit, unlike slider windows that rely on weatherstripping (which wears out faster).
- Weather Resistance: Because they open outward from the bottom, awning windows can be left open even in light rain or snow without worrying about water getting inside. That’s a huge plus when you need fresh air but don’t want to flood your living room.
- Better Ventilation: Their top-hinge design allows air to flow in from the sides, even when it’s windy. This helps prevent stale indoor air, especially in moisture-prone rooms like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Security & Privacy: Since awning windows can be installed higher up on walls, they offer privacy without sacrificing airflow. Plus, their locking mechanisms make them harder to force open compared to slider windows.
- Low Maintenance: Vinyl awning windows are built to withstand Winnipeg’s temperature swings, so you don’t have to worry about warping, peeling, or cracking.
Best Places in Your Home to Install Awning Windows
Not sure where awning windows would work best? Here are a few Winnipeg-approved locations where they shine the most:
- Kitchen: Ever tried opening a sliding window over a sink? Not fun. Awning windows are perfect for above countertops because they open with an easy crank, so no awkward reaching is required.
- Bathroom: Privacy + ventilation = the perfect bathroom window. Place them higher on the wall to keep prying eyes out while still letting fresh air in.
- Basement: Winnipeg basements can feel stuffy. Awnings fit in small window openings and provide good ventilation while keeping moisture and debris out.
- Living Room/Bedroom: Pair awning windows with fixed picture windows for a sleek, modern look that also lets in fresh air.
How Much Do Awning Windows Cost in Winnipeg?
Let’s talk numbers. How much will it cost to install awning windows in your home?
Vinyl awning window (standard double-pane): $500 – $900
Vinyl awning window (triple-pane, energy-efficient): $900 – $1,500
Factors that impact cost:
- Size: The bigger the window, the higher the cost.
- Glass Type: Triple-pane windows cost more but save on energy bills in the long run.
- Installation Complexity: Replacing existing windows is cheaper than cutting new openings.
- Customization: Special colors, grilles, and hardware add to the price.
Pro Tip: Invest in triple-pane windows if your goal is maximum energy efficiency – they pay for themselves over time in heating savings.
Energy-Efficient Awning Windows: What to Look For
With Winnipeg’s cold winters, choosing the right energy-efficient features is key. Here’s what to look for:
- Triple Glazing: Three panes of glass with insulating gas (argon or krypton) reduce heat loss.
- Low-E Coatings: Helps reflect heat back into your home in winter and blocks UV rays in summer.
- ENERGY STAR Certification: This guarantees the window meets Canada’s highest efficiency standards.
- Compression Seals: These prevent drafts better than standard weatherstripping.
Why It Matters: An energy-efficient window can cut your heating bill by up to 30%. In a city where we spend half the year trying to stay warm, that’s a big deal.
Read more here: Benefits of Triple-Pane Windows.
Comparing Awning Windows to Other Window Styles
Thinking about other options? Here’s how awning windows stack up against other popular choices:
Awning vs. Hopper Windows
| Feature | ✓ Awning Windows | ✓ Hopper Windows |
| Hinge Position | Top-hinged | Bottom-hinged |
| Best For | Kitchens, bathrooms, basements | Basements, small spaces |
| Weather Protection | Keeps out rain & snow | Rain can enter when open |
Pick awning windows if: You want ventilation in all weather without water getting in.
Awning vs. Casement Windows
| Feature | ✓ Awning Windows | ✓ Casement Windows |
| Opening Style | Opens from the bottom | Opens from the side |
| Ventilation | Moderate airflow | Maximum airflow |
| Best For | Bathrooms, kitchens, basements | Bedrooms, living rooms |
Pick awning windows if: You need weather resistance & privacy.
Awning vs. Sliding Windows
| Feature | ✓ Awning Windows | ✓ Sliding Windows |
| Sealing Efficiency | Compression seal = airtight | Weatherstripping = less airtight |
| Ease of Use | Crank = easy to open | Requires two hands, can stick over time |
| Best For | Bathrooms, kitchens, basements | Bedrooms, living rooms |
Pick awning windows if: You want better insulation & easier operation.
Explore our replacement hopper windows, new casement windows and both single slider windows or double slider window replacements!
Are Awning Windows Right for You?
At the end of the day, awning windows are one of the best choices for Winnipeg homes. They offer ventilation, energy efficiency, and durability – all crucial for our climate. If you’re tired of drafty, outdated windows, upgrading to new vinyl awning windows could be one of the best investments you make.
Want expert advice on the best windows for your home? Contact NorthShield, your local Winnipeg window installer, today for a free quote!