Hopper Windows
A hopper window opens inward from the top and tilts downward, resembling the action of a hopper. It is commonly used in basements, bathrooms, and other areas where space is limited and ventilation is needed.
Even if you may not immediately pull up an image of a hopper window in your head when you see the name, it is likely that you live in a house with one or know what it looks like.
What are hopper windows, and how can they help you save money and control the temperature conditions in your house? Let’s find out.
What is a Hopper Window?
A hopper window, sometimes referred to homeowners as a hopper basement window in Ottawa (since they are primarily installed in basements), is often rectangular and opens inwards. Depending on the manufacturer, they can be hinged at the top or the bottom. That means the latch may be placed at the top or bottom.
However, the hopper windows don’t just serve the basement but work well as a ventilation option, installed high up the walls, near the ceiling. The windows may also be installed below or above picture windows for a more interesting design that still provides plenty of ventilation.
Features and benefits of a Hopper window
After that description, you might be thinking, “Why does the hopper window sound a lot like an awning window?”
Well, you’re right. The design is very similar. However, these window types open in different directions. The hopper windows Canada buyers are familiar with the hopper’s inward-opening mechanism. For awning windows, it is the opposite. The awning windows open outward to form their own awnings. It’s how they get their name.
The hinges on awning windows will always be at the top so that it opens from the bottom and pushes out. That said, what are some features of a hopper window in Ottawa?
1. Energy efficiency and ventilation
Not only do hopper windows make it easy to ventilate rooms, but they are also often made with insulated glass for energy efficiency. If your basement is frequented and your HVAC system covers it too, you won’t have to keep it running for long to reach your preferred room temperature. Plus, every single new window at Buildmart is ENERGY STAR certified and qualified for the highest rebate from the Canada Greener Homes Grant and Loan programs.
2. The opening mechanism
Hopper windows can open up to 90 degrees from their closed position, or only reach 45 degrees. The ones capable of opening all the way usually have hinges at the top to ensure they are better anchored.
Hopper windows have a small, lever-type handle used to open or shut the window, so it fits into a locking mechanism for security reasons.
3. Versatility
Hopper windows have found their calling outside the basements too. They work well there but can be co-opted for the laundry room and bathroom for fresh air circulation into areas prone to mould growth.
They can also be installed above larger windows to let more natural light stream into a room while increasing air circulation.
Manufacturers of hopper windows in Canada
Manufacturers make hopper windows out of various materials for diversity and to cater to every client. That’s why you’ll find in the Buildmart catalogue different material types, including:
- Aluminum hopper windows;
- Vinyl hopper windows;
- Fibreglass hopper windows;
- Composite hopper windows;
- Wood hopper windows.
The selections are sourced from reputable manufacturers, including WindowPro, STAGE, Ostaco, Dimensions, Gealan, Gentek, and many more. Different options mean less supply chain issues extending to our customers!
Replacement and installation of hopper windows
Buildmart offers top-of-the-line products and professional service personnel with the experience to do your hopper window replacement near me and installation. Depending on what colour scheme your project has, we can provide you with complementing options that fit in with the overall design.
In addition to hiring our services and diverse product catalogue, we also offer a free consultation to answer questions or assist in figuring out what would work best for your home needs.
Great colours selection
Our hopper windows come from manufacturers with a different lineup consisting of varying colours. You will find a variety of colours to fit in neutrally or stand out. For instance, we provide STAGE hopper windows in rich shades such as slate, sandalwood, sable, iron ore, cashmere, cream LG, black, and Dover grey.
There is no shortage of the colours you can opt for depending on the décor style you choose. You will most likely find one that works for you in our catalogue.
Contact us today to find out what you are looking for much faster and someone should get back to you within the next day or two.