Crank Window Styles

Jalousie Windows

• Jalousie windows are made of narrow glass slats that open and close like blinds or louvered shutters. When you crank the lever, the slats move simultaneously. Jalousie windows are sometimes used in sunrooms, or throughout a structure in hot climates. The windows are also known as louver or Florida windows, the latter because of their frequent use in the state, according to “Log Home Living” magazine.

  Cranked open, jalousie slats allow full ventilation. When closed, the glass slats aren't always airtight, which is their biggest drawback.

Awning Windows

• Awning windows are horizontally installed, rectangular windows with hinges at the top. They open upward and outward. When you crank them open, the bottoms of the windows tilt away from the building like a canvas or metal awning, hence the name. Awning windows can be installed in horizontal or vertical rows, or in grids of both. They are sometimes combined with casement or fixed windows to create a window wall.

  Because you can adjust the tilt angle with the crank, you can keep awning windows open when it rains without soaking your interior. However, because of they're construction, they offer little protection from break-ins if placed too low.

Hopper Windows

• Hopper windows look like awning windows when closed, but they're hinged at the bottom and they open from the top. The windows open downward and into the room, rather than out from the building. Like awning windows, hoppers can be installed in rows or grids, or combined with other window types. Hopper windows are frequently used to ventilate basements and bathrooms in both residential and commercial buildings.

  While they seal tightly for better energy efficiency, open hoppers don't offer coverage from rain because they open inward; window treatments also must clear the top and sides of the window frame.

Casement Windows

• Casement windows are installed vertically and have hinges on one side like doors. They come in square, rectangular, trapezoidal and arched-top shapes. When cranked open, some casement windows swing into the room. Others swing out and away from the building. Both types open all the way for full ventilation. Casement window installations include single windows, bays or rows. They may also be combined with fixed, single- or double-hung, awning or hopper windows.

  Casement windows close securely, making them energy efficient and hard to force open -- though they're not the most cost efficient choice. New versions cost more than single-or double-hung windows, according to “Build Your Dream Home for Less.” In-swing casement windows require window treatments that completely clear the window frame when opened.

French Casement Windows

• French casement windows are mirror-image pairs of casement windows. They have hinges on the outermost sides, and open from the center. Historical buildings typically have in-swing French casement windows. Manufacturers make new versions that swing in or out. French casement windows don't have a diving mullion between them, so you have an unobstructed view when they're open. Like regular casement windows, French casements come in rectangular, square, trapezoidal and arch-top versions. For versions with arched tops, a single arch extends over both windows in the pair.