An awning window was first documented in Syria and Egypt in ancient times and has typically become one of the most sought-after types of windows over the years.
An awning window is not only to beautify the interior of your home, but it is also useful for capturing natural light and ventilation while maximizing your wall space and maintaining some privacy.
One of the reasons awning windows are common is that they ate more energy efficient than sliding doors. However, you can come across issues such as the window not closing all the way, this can be quite frustrating especially when you are trying to keep dust or cold out.
These types of windows leak less than traditional windows, and they happen to offer superior privacy compared to other openable windows. Awning windows are designed to be placed on higher walls compared to other types of windows.
Learning how to fix the awning window when there is an issue can come in quite handy and there are numerous reasons your window won’t close all the way, there could be problems with the lubricant or sash, fortunately, there are ways it can be fixed. Read on to learn why your awning window won’t close all the way and how it can be fixed.
Pros And Cons Of Awning Windows
Awning windows are non-traditional windows, and we have to agree that they make the home comfortable.
There are lots of reasons people pick these non-traditional windows over the traditional ones, one vital one is that they are ideal for horizontal and vertical locations. To decide if you want an awning window or not, here are some of its pros and cons to help you evaluate.
| Pros Of Awning Windows | Cons of Awning Windows |
|---|---|
| Energy efficiency | There is an imperfect emergency exist |
| Better ventilation | It’s difficult to clean |
| Help increase your home security | People can run into them accidentally |
| It is useful for capturing natural light | The mechanism for closing and opening the awning window is complex |
| It offers superior privacy | May need repairs more frequently compared to other windows |
| They are easier to maintain and replace compared to prized windows | |
| They give you a clear view outside |
Awning Window Won’t Close All The Way Possible Fixes
A window that won’t close all the way is a common household issue, especially with awning windows.
It can be frustrating to have a crank window and whether it’s a minor issue or a major source of concern, no one wants to be stuck with a window that won’t close properly. A replacement might be necessary if the damage to your window is extensive.
Common reasons why awning windows won’t close all the way include warped wood, shifting foundations, or dirt and debris that can be stuck in the window sliding track. So, below are some of the possible ways you can try fixing awning windows that won’t close all the way.
1. Apply Lubricant To The Hinges And Crank System
The first step to fixing your awning window is to apply lubricant to the hinges and other moving parts.
First, you need to ensure all the crank system is clean, apply a cleaning solution to all the crank system, clean the crank system thoroughly with a microfiber towel and see if it works after that. If it does not, take some lubricant and apply it to the side track and hinges.
Lubricating and cleaning the hinges and moving parts are the minor ways you can easily fix awning windows that don’t close all the way. Use a silicone-based lubricant for your awning door.
2. Shifting Foundation
If your awning window is stuck and won’t move, the number cause of this is a shifting foundation. Minor adjustments will have to be done to fix this.
Check if your awning window is not closing completely due to a shifting foundation and fix this by lifting and pushing the window around the lock area, this might be enough to get it back in place.
3. Maintaining The Hinges And Crank Assembly
Awning windows are not exactly easy to clean compared to other types of windows and when dirt or debris gets stuck in the crack system, it causes the awning window to get stuck halfway closing it.
If your window makes a screeching sound while you are trying to close it, they definitely need to be lubricated after cleaning.
To keep awning windows operating properly, regular cleaning of the hinges and crank assembly is vital.
4. Window And Hardware Replacement
Awning windows that do not close all the way no matter how much cleaning you do can also be a sign that some hardware or window is damaged. It could also mean it’s time to replace the window if it is old.
Awning windows have excellent top hinge designs, but they can also wear out fast. So, you should consider replacing the window or loose hardware might need to be repaired or replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the awning windows close all the way?
An awning window is quite similar to a casement window. Awning windows are hinged at the top hence you can open them at or near the top of the frame so yes they should close all the way, but the opening hardware goes between the sill and the middle of the window sash not making it a great way to escape.
Can awning windows open 90 degrees?
Yes, awning windows are designed as outward openings, so they are able to fully open up to 90 degrees depending on the type and size. Awning windows are also hinged at the top, so you can open them up to 90 degrees and worry less about a strong breeze closing them.
Which is better awning or sliding?
Awning and siding windows have their own pros and cons. Awning windows are great for all-weather ventilation and versatility but if you are looking for something economical that works for a larger space, sliding should be the best option, it brings in light and air too.
Are awning windows cheaper?
Awning windows are budget friendly compared to pricey windows and happen to be the most energy-efficient choice to go for.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your awning window is a lot easier than you think. One of the benefits of installing awning windows is that they are cheaper compared to traditional ones including slider windows and casement.
Their simplicity also makes them easy to install however fewer parts might need replacing after a while.
It can be quite frustrating to deal with a cranking awning window, minor adjustment and regular cleaning might be able to fix it but if the issue is more severe, your complete window repair might be necessary. If you are not sure, call in window repair experts to access where the issue comes from.