Key Takeaways
- Standard awning window sizes range from 24 x 18 inches to 36 x 60 inches.
- Best for bathrooms and kitchens, these windows provide ventilation while maintaining security.
- Consider room measurements, room purpose, sun exposure, and your home’s style when choosing a window size.
Awning windows open outward from the bottom, creating a mini roof-like structure that shields against rain while letting in fresh air. Generally ranging from compact 24 x 18-inch to 36 x 60-inch models, awning windows are best suited for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, as they balance ventilation with security and privacy.
When choosing which size awning windows to purchase, start by getting accurate measurements to save yourself a headache later on. “Always leave about half an inch of wiggle room on all sides,” said Chuck W., a window specialist for Home Depot in Southwest Michigan. “That means your window should be roughly an inch smaller than your wall opening in both directions.”
In addition to measuring your space, consider factors such as sun exposure, home aesthetic, and privacy needs. You’ll also want to evaluate your budget when determining what size window to buy. One awning window tends to cost $300–$700, including installation.
If you’re swapping out old windows, you’ll be stuck with the openings you’ve got unless you’re willing to pay. Check out our window replacement cost guide before deciding to resize your wall openings.
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How To Choose an Awning Window Size
When deciding which awning window size is right for you, you’ll want to consider the measurements of the space, as well as factors like privacy needs and sun exposure.
Manufacturers such as Andersen, Pella, and Marvin generally offer the following awning window sizes:
- Small: 16–24 inches wide x 12–20 inches tall (great for tight spaces)
- Medium: 24–36 inches wide x 20–30 inches tall (most popular)
- Large: 36–48 inches wide x 24–36 inches tall (for maximum airflow)
When shopping for awning windows, you may see sizes like 3 x 4 feet. But in the window industry, sizes are almost always listed in inches (like 36 x 48 inches) for greater precision. Knowing this will help you confidently compare products and ensure you get the perfect fit for your space.
Chuck W. shared an interesting observation from his years in the business: “Nine times out of ten, homeowners go with a 30 x 24-inch model for their bathrooms and over their kitchen sinks. It’s kind of the Goldilocks size — not too big, not too small.”
Get Your Measurements Right
First, measure the opening or wall space where you want your new window. Then, subtract ½ inch from both height and width. That gives you room for the shims that level everything out. Finally, find a standard size that fits inside those dimensions.
Don’t forget to check for clearance outside. There’s nothing worse than opening your new awning window only to have it bang into a tree or fence post.
Consider Other Factors Affecting Size
In addition to taking measurements of the space, you’ll want to consider the following:
- Room purpose: You may want a larger kitchen window for better venting of steam and heat from cooking.
- Window positioning: Many homeowners put shorter, wider windows up high in their basements, which makes it easier to crank open and still get good airflow.
- Sun exposure: North-facing rooms may need bigger windows because they need more natural light, while south-facing rooms may need smaller ones to prevent overheating.
- Privacy needs: Keep bathroom windows small and near the ceiling for better privacy.
- House aesthetic: The windows should match your home’s architectural style. A Victorian home could look awkward with modern oversized windows.
I strongly recommend having a pro come measure before you order. They’ll catch things you might miss, like whether your walls are actually square (they probably aren’t) and whether local building codes have specific requirements for your situation.
If you’ve got a strangely sized opening, you can order custom windows, but they’ll cost you about 15%–20% more than standard sizes.
Where To Use Awning Windows
You can install awning windows in just about every room you can imagine, but they truly shine in certain spots. Unlike sliding or double-hung windows, awning styles can be left open when it’s drizzling outside, which is why they’re ideal windows for rainy climates.
My bathroom at home has an awning window mounted high on the wall. It provides privacy while still letting steam escape after hot showers. In my sister’s kitchen renovation, she installed one above her sink — it’s much easier to reach and operate with the hand crank than a window that slides up and down.
The coolest installation I’ve seen was in a basement apartment that desperately needed more ventilation. The owner put in three vinyl awning windows just below the ceiling level. Since they’re harder to break into than sliding windows, the tenant got better airflow without sacrificing security with the new replacement windows.
They’re also fantastic when you combine them with other window styles. My living room has a big picture window with two smaller awning windows flanking it. The center portion provides the view, while the sides provide the breeze.
A neighbor of mine wanted them in her sunroom because they could catch breezes from different directions without swinging inward and hitting plants or furniture. She also installed them in her home office to help manage temperature without disturbing her desk setup.
However, I don’t recommend installing them anywhere with a tight clearance outside, or in bedrooms where you might need an emergency exit. They’re usually too small to meet egress requirements for that.
How Much Do Awning Windows Cost?
Awning windows typically cost between $300 and $700 installed. Here’s what affects the final price you’ll pay.
Cost by Size
No surprise here — bigger windows cost more. Like other types of windows, awning windows come in a variety of sizes:
| Window Size | Average Cost per Window* |
|---|---|
| Small (24 x 20 inches) | $240 |
| Medium (38 x 46 inches) | $475 |
| Large (52 x 75 inches) | $700 |
| Custom/oversized | $750+ |
Cost by Frame Material
Always look into these options before picking out your new window.
| Frame Material | Cost per Window* |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $200–$1,200 |
| Wood | $300–$1,400 |
| Aluminum | $450–$1,500 |
| Fiberglass | $450–$1,600 |
Many budget-conscious homeowners choose vinyl — it’s affordable, insulates well, and you don’t have to paint it. However, those with older homes may prefer wood, while fiberglass can match better with modern builds. You’ll pay more for these options upfront, but they often provide better durability, offer exterior color options, last longer, and look better.
Cost by Brand
Here’s recent pricing for the most popular window brands:
| Brand | Cost per Window* |
|---|---|
| Pella 450 ProLine | $400–$700 |
| Marvin Essential | $400–$1,100 |
| Jeld-Wen | $400–$1,150 |
| Window World | $600–$1,250 |
| Champion | $650–$1,200 |
| Andersen 100 Series | $1,100–$1,600 |
| Andersen 400 Series | $1,250–$1,750 |
Don’t automatically go with the cheapest product line. In general, the more expensive windows either use higher-quality materials, more configurations and interior color options, or have better warranties (or all of the above). These could save you money in the long term.
DIY Vs. Pro Installation
Whether you should go the DIY route depends on your skills and experience. I’ve seen successful DIY jobs and complete disasters. Here’s how to decide.
When DIY Makes Sense
You might want to handle your window project yourself if:
- You’ve done similar projects before and were successful.
- You’re replacing an existing window with the same size (no wall modifications needed).
- You already own decent tools and know how to use them.
- The window(s) are on the first floor (ground level).
- Your local building department doesn’t require professional installation for permits.
“If your opening is already framed, square, and in good shape, DIY can save you a few hundred bucks,” Chuck W. said. “But if anything’s even slightly off, you’ll wish you’d hired someone.”
When To Hire a Pro
You’ll likely want to consider a professional in the following situations:
- You’re cutting a brand new opening (this is not a beginner project.)
- There’s plumbing or electrical wiring in the wall you’re working on.
- You’d need to use a tall ladder or scaffolding.
- The manufacturer’s warranty requires professional installation (many do).
- The window opening isn’t square or level (most aren’t in older homes).
- You don’t want to be responsible if anything goes wrong (and a warranty to back it up).
I’ve heard about enough DIY window jobs to know that proper installation matters more than most people think. A properly installed midrange window outperforms a poorly installed premium window every time.
The pros bring specialized tools and experience that ensure proper flashing and sealing, which are crucial for preventing water damage and can cost thousands to repair down the road.
You also don’t want to neglect safety. I know someone who fell off a ladder while working on a second-story window. Their medical bills cost far more than hiring a pro would have. Pro installation generally adds $100–$300 to your window cost — and is typically worth it.
Are Awning Windows Right for You?
Awning windows work exceptionally well in specific situations. In bathrooms and above kitchen sinks, they provide ventilation without sacrificing wall space. Their outward-opening design helps keep rain out while letting fresh air in, which is especially valuable in basements or rainy climates. The snug seal they create when you close them makes them energy-efficient window choices for weather-sensitive areas.
“Homeowners who install awning windows in the right spots almost never regret it,” Chuck W. said. “But don’t follow trends blindly. A bathroom might benefit from an awning window, while your living room might need something with a broader view.”
For rooms where panoramic vistas matter more than rain protection, casement windows might serve you better. I learned this lesson when building my own home. I initially wanted awning windows throughout for consistency, but ended up mixing styles — awning windows in utility spaces and casements in the living areas.
Before you decide, have a few window pros visit your home. Their estimates are usually free, and their advice, based on seeing hundreds of homes like yours, is invaluable. They might suggest combining window types for the perfect balance of function and looks. After all, windows are something you’ll live with (and look through) every single day for decades.
