What Is the Best Window Treatment for Awning Windows?

TL;DR;

The best window treatments for awning windows are those that clear the outward-opening crank, mount outside the frame, and provide light control, privacy, and durability. Top choices include cellular shades, roller shades with reverse roll, Roman shades with shallow brackets, Polywood shutters, and curtain panels. Love Is Blinds TX recommends custom-fit solutions that match your style while ensuring full function of your awning windows.

Why Awning Windows Need Special Treatments

Awning windows open outward from the top with a crank. This creates challenges because the treatment must allow access to the handle and provide enough clearance for operation. They are common in kitchens, bathrooms, and high wall placements where airflow and privacy are important.

Unique issues:



• Crank obstruction if the treatment is mounted too close
  
  
• Extra width compared to height, which often requires custom sizing
  
  
• Moisture and humidity exposure in bathrooms and kitchens
  
  
• Strong sunlight and heat in Texas affecting fabric durability
  

Key Factors When Choosing Window Treatments for Awning Windows

Light Control and Privacy

You need treatments that balance airflow with privacy. Options like cellular or roller shades filter light while maintaining coverage. For bedrooms, blackout cellular shades are effective. For living spaces, sheer roller shades provide filtered light without blocking ventilation.

Durability and Materials

Moisture-resistant materials are important for bathrooms and kitchens. Choose synthetic fabrics, faux wood, or Polywood shutters. In hot Texas climates, UV-blocking fabrics prevent fading and extend the life of your treatment.

Mounting and Hardware

Awning windows require outside mounts more often than inside mounts. This keeps the crank accessible. Use spacer blocks or shallow brackets to push the treatment away from the frame. Hardware finish should match the rest of the room.

Ease of Use and Access

High awning windows benefit from motorized or cordless treatments. Remote operation avoids reaching over furniture. Motorized shades are ideal for tall walls or areas where access is limited.

Energy Efficiency and Insulation

Cellular shades are the most energy-efficient. Their honeycomb design traps air, keeping homes cooler during Texas summers. Roller solar shades reduce glare and UV rays while keeping heat out.

Style and Aesthetics

The treatment should match your room style. Roller shades are sleek for modern spaces. Roman shades add texture for traditional designs. Bamboo shades give a natural look. Polywood shutters fit farmhouse or transitional styles.

Best Awning Window Treatments and Their Pros and Cons

Cellular Shades for Awning Windows

Pros: energy-efficient, blackout or light-filtering, wide range of colors
Cons: need clearance from crank, best with outside mount
Best for: bedrooms, living rooms, hot climates

Roller Shades with Reverse Roll

Pros: simple, modern, reverse roll keeps shade away from crank
Cons: limited insulation compared to cellular
Best for: kitchens, living rooms, minimalistic design

Roman Shades with Shallow Brackets

Pros: elegant, fabric choice flexible, wall-mount possible
Cons: thicker folds may block crank if not measured correctly
Best for: dining rooms, decorative spaces

Polywood Shutters

Pros: custom fit, moisture-resistant, durable, timeless style
Cons: generally requires professional installation
Best for: bathrooms, kitchens, Texas humidity

Bamboo or Woven Shades

Pros: natural texture, eco-friendly, light control with liners
Cons: less moisture-resistant, may fade in direct sunlight
Best for: living rooms, transitional or rustic styles

Curtain Panels for Awning Windows

Pros: versatile, mounted high and wide for full clearance
Cons: less insulation, may block airflow when closed
Best for: large living spaces, decorative purposes

Motorized Shades for Hard-to-Reach Windows

Pros: convenient, safe for children, ideal for tall walls
Cons: requires power source or battery system
Best for: high awning windows, modern homes

Window Films and Exterior Options

Pros: UV and privacy protection without blocking airflow
Cons: no insulation, minimal style variety
Best for: supplemental use with shades or curtains

Matching Treatments to Specific Rooms

• High Awning Windows: motorized cellular or roller shades for easy operation.
  
  
• Kitchens: easy-clean roller or solar shades, faux wood blinds.
  
  
• Bathrooms: moisture-resistant shutters or vinyl blinds.
  
  
• Bedrooms: blackout cellular shades or layered roller shades.
  
  
• Living Rooms: decorative Roman or bamboo woven shades.
  

Measuring and Installation Tips

How to Measure for Awning Windows

• Always measure width and height in three places
  
  
• Choose outside mount if crank clearance is needed
  
  
• Add extra width for light gap control
  
  

Hardware Recommendations

• Spacer blocks create extra distance from window
  
  
• Choose cordless or motorized controls for safety
  
  
• Match hardware finish with room décor
  

Safety Considerations

Cordless options are best for homes with children. Motorized shades also improve safety by removing dangling cords.

Maintenance and Longevity

• Cellular shades: vacuum gently with brush attachment
  
  
• Roller shades: wipe with damp cloth
  
  
• Polywood shutters: dust with microfiber cloth
  
  
• Bamboo shades: dry dust only
  
  
• Fabrics with UV coatings last longer in Texas heat
  
  

Replace treatments if fabrics show fading, cords fray, or mechanisms fail. Warranties from quality providers like Love Is Blinds TX help extend lifespan.

Cost and Energy Savings (Generalized)

While specific prices vary by material, size, and customization, window treatments can be considered an investment that offers long-term returns. Cellular shades, shutters, and solar shades all contribute to better energy efficiency, helping lower cooling costs in Texas homes. Durable materials like Polywood shutters also reduce the need for frequent replacements, adding more value over time.

Design Inspiration for Awning Windows

• Modern: neutral roller shades with reverse roll. For unique window shapes, homeowners can also explore arched window treatment ideas that pair beautifully with awning windows in open-concept or custom spaces.
  
  
• Traditional: fabric Roman shades with tailored folds
  
  
• Farmhouse: white Polywood shutters
  
  
• Rustic: bamboo woven shades with liners
  
  
• Contemporary: motorized solar shades with remote
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use curtains on awning windows?

Yes, but they must be hung high and wide to allow the window to open fully.

Are blinds or shades better in humid areas?

Faux wood blinds and Polywood shutters perform better than natural wood in bathrooms and kitchens.

How do you open the crank with shades installed?

Use outside mount shades with reverse roll or spacer blocks to clear the crank.

Which treatments resist fading under strong sunlight?

Polywood shutters and UV-coated fabrics hold color longer in Texas heat.

Are motorized treatments worth the investment?

Yes, especially for high or hard-to-reach awning windows. They improve access, safety, and convenience.

Choosing the Right Solution with Love Is Blinds TX

Selecting the best window treatment for awning windows depends on room, climate, and personal style. Cellular shades offer efficiency, roller shades give simplicity, and Polywood shutters handle moisture and heat. Love Is Blinds TX provides custom-fit solutions designed for Texas homes, balancing durability, function, and design.