Key Takeaways
- Awning windows hinge at the top and open outward from the bottom, so they ventilate well in light rain.
- Casement windows hinge at the side and swing open like a door, so they catch breezes and give the widest opening.
- Both seal tightly when closed, and both cost about the same installed in Melbourne, from around $2,100 to $3,400 or more.
- Choose awning for wet-weather ventilation, privacy and high walls, and casement for airflow, views and easy reach.
Awning vs Casement Windows at a Glance
This guide compares the two styles so you can pick with confidence. Awning and casement windows are close cousins. Both open outward on hinges, both seal against compression gaskets, and both suit double glazing. The difference is where the hinge sits and what that does to airflow, rain and placement.
| Feature | Awning window | Casement window |
|---|---|---|
| Hinge position | Along the top | Along one side |
| Opens | Outward from the bottom | Outward like a door |
| Rain protection when open | Good in light rain | Limited, rain can blow in |
| Airflow | Moderate, directed upward | High, catches side breezes |
| Typical shape | Wider than tall | Taller than wide |
| Typical installed price | $2,100 to $3,400+ | $2,100 to $3,400+ |
What Is an Awning Window?
An awning window is hinged at the top and pushes outward from the bottom, forming a small canopy over the opening. Because the glass slopes down over the gap, light rain runs off the outside rather than coming in.
For a full guide, see our article that explains what is an awning window and where it works best.
What Is a Casement Window?
A casement window is hinged on one side and swings outward like a small door. The whole sash opens, which gives a large clear opening and lets you angle the window to catch passing breezes.
Our guide on what are casement windows covers how they work in more detail.
Casement vs Awning Windows: Which Handles Rain Better?
Wet weather is the clearest difference between the two. If you like to leave windows open on drizzly days, the hinge position matters, because it decides whether rain runs off the glass or blows straight into the room.
- Awning: the sash acts as a canopy, so light rain stays outside while air still flows.
- Casement: the sash opens sideways, so rain can blow in, especially when the wind is behind it.
- Heavy storms: close both styles, as strong wind and driving rain can overcome either.
Ventilation and Airflow
Airflow depends on opening size and direction. Casements usually win on volume, while awnings win on control.
- Casement: the full sash opens, and angling it catches wind running along the wall.
- Awning: the opening is smaller, but air moves upward and out, which helps release warm air.
- Combination: using an awning above a fixed or casement window gives airflow at different heights.
Security, Sealing and Energy Efficiency
Both styles do well here, because the sash closes against compression seals instead of sliding past brush seals. That is a big reason hinged windows are favoured for energy efficient homes.
Ultimate Windows uses double compression seals on both styles, and key-lockable hardware adds security. Our uPVC is up to 4.5 times more energy efficient than standard aluminium-framed windows.
- Double glazing: available in both styles, with argon gas as standard at no extra cost.
- Triple glazing: an option for higher performance.
- Low-E glass: typically adds 10 to 20% to the price.
- Acoustic laminated glass: typically adds 20 to 35% and helps reduce noise.
Which Rooms Suit Each Style?
Placement is where the decision gets practical. Match the style to the room, the wall it sits on and what is outside, including paths, garden beds and neighbouring fences that could get in the way of an open sash.
- Choose awning windows for bathrooms and laundries, where you need ventilation even when it rains.
- Choose casement windows for bedrooms and living rooms, where airflow and views matter most.
- Use awning windows high on walls for privacy and gentle ventilation.
- Use casement windows over kitchen sinks, where a crank handle is easy to reach.
- Avoid both styles next to narrow paths, where an open sash could be bumped.
- Mix styles across the house, since many homes use both.
Our sliding windows compared with awning windows article is useful if you also want a style that needs no outward clearance.
Cost: Is One Style Cheaper?
In Melbourne, both styles have the same typical installed range for double glazed uPVC, from $2,100 to $3,400 or more. Final prices depend on size, glass, hardware and installation conditions rather than the opening style alone.
If cost is a deciding factor, compare these typical installed ranges across all styles:
- Fixed: $1,700 to $2,500+
- Sliding: $2,200 to $3,400+
- Tilt and turn: $2,000 to $3,300+
- Awning and casement: $2,100 to $3,400+
For help weighing every style, see our window style guide.
Quick Pros and Cons of Each Style
If you want a fast summary, use these lists to see where each window comes out ahead.
- Awning pros: rain-friendly ventilation, good privacy, flexible placement on high walls.
- Awning cons: smaller opening, fewer breezes, outward swing needs clearance.
- Casement pros: widest opening, strong airflow, clear views and easy reach.
- Casement cons: rain can blow in, and the sash needs room to swing out.
What You Get From Ultimate Windows
Whichever style you choose, the build and the installation shape how it performs for years. We make uPVC windows at our solar powered factory in Wodonga and install them with our own team.
- Free measure and fixed-price quote: no hidden fees.
- 12-year guarantee: seven years more than the five years the AWA recommends.
- Experience: 15 years in the industry and more than 500 installations.
- Finance: 100% finance through our Australian finance partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, awning or casement windows?
Neither is better for every home. Awning windows are better for ventilating in light rain and for high or private positions. Casement windows are better for maximum airflow and unobstructed views. Many homes use both, choosing the style that suits each room.
Which window is better for rainy weather?
Awning windows handle rain better because the sash forms a canopy over the opening, so light rain runs down the outside of the glass. Casement windows open sideways and can let rain blow in, so they are best closed in wet and windy conditions.
Are awning or casement windows more energy efficient?
They are similar. Both close against compression seals, which limit air leaks. Efficiency depends more on the frame, glass and installation than on the style. A uPVC frame with double glazing, Low-E glass and argon gas performs well in either.
Can I use awning and casement windows in the same home?
Yes, and many homes do. Awning windows often suit bathrooms, laundries and high walls, while casements work well in bedrooms and living areas. Matching the frame and glass specification keeps the look consistent and the performance uniform across the house.
Choose the Right Window Style With Ultimate Windows
Not sure which style fits each room? Our team can walk you through the options and provide a free measure and fixed-price quote. Call 1300 898 782 or get in touch online to get started.
