Awning Window Types
An awning window is hinged at the top and swings out at the bottom, so the open sash sheds rain like a small roof. The types below differ in where the sash sits and which edge is hinged.
Single awning windows
On its own, an awning gives air while keeping rain out: HomeGuide describes it opening from the bottom to ventilate while protecting from the rain. This Old House adds that awnings seal well when closed and take screens more easily than jalousies. In a bathroom, check the glass rules for wet areas if the sill sits low over a tub.
- Installed (HomeGuide): $400 to $2,000.
- Per window (Fixr): $300 to $800.
Awnings under a picture window
HomeGuide says contractors often install awning windows below large picture windows for added ventilation. The fixed pane gives the view, the awning gives the air. The two are joined with a mullion, which Florida code tests separately in the HVHZ (see below).
Hopper windows
A hopper is the awning turned upside down: hinged at the bottom instead of the top. Archtoolbox notes hoppers are used infrequently because the opening lets rain in. Ask for one only where the opening is sheltered.
Awnings in place of jalousies
This Old House compares awnings with jalousies: both let air through in light rain, but the awning insulates better and is more secure when shut. That makes it the closest swap for anyone who liked leaving the louvers cracked. The full set of options is on the jalousie replacement page.
Why Pompano Beach homeowners call Pompano Windows
- One independent installer calls back, not a list of five
- The request costs you nothing
- Ask for approval numbers and design pressures on the quote
- Permit, removal and stucco patching priced in writing
Awning Windows in a Broward House
Approval
Each awning has to be an approved, labeled HVHZ unit, or the opening needs hurricane shutters.Mulled units
Florida code says mullions and mulled assemblies in the HVHZ are tested to TAS 202 or engineered to practice such as AAMA 450. A lab-tested mullion has to resist 1.5 times the design pressure of the windows it supports.Outswing
The sash projects outside when open, so check walkways, patio furniture and screen enclosures before you settle on a location.Permit
Pompano Beach requires a city permit for each window replacement job.
Awning Window Costs
HomeGuide's $400 to $2,000 and Fixr's $300 to $800 are general window prices, not impact prices. For comparison, HomeGuide's impact table has fixed units at $400 to $750 and single-hungs at $400 to $950 installed. Fixr says operable styles such as casements and awnings give better ventilation but are less secure than fixed glass.
Glass
A laminated or tempered upgrade adds $100 to $800 to a standard window in Fixr's numbers.
Questions to Ask Before Ordering Awnings
Screens
This Old House says awnings can be used with or without interior screens; confirm which the quote includes.Glass
Ask which interlayer the laminated glass uses. Bob Vila lists PVB as the budget option and EVA as the other common one.Contract
On a deposit over 10%, ask about the deposit rule; contracts over $2,500 carry the state's lien-law notice.
See Casement Windows for the side-hinged version.