Double-hung and casement windows are typically the preferred window options for standard structures. However, there are some spaces inside the building that may benefit more from a different window design. If you have a space that desperately requires a ventilation source, but installing a window there doesn’t make sense. Or maybe you want to enhance the flow of natural light in a room while still maintaining privacy. Then hopper windows may be the right option for you. Basement Hopper windows have grown quite popular in the past few years. They feature a unique design that offers a number of benefits over standard double-hung or casement windows. This blog will cover the ins and outs of the hopper glass window to offer an all-inclusive guide for you.
What are Hopper Windows?
The answer to the million-dollar question, “What are hopper windows?” is actually quite simple. Although most windows have an almost similar appearance, the little details in the window style really make the difference. You can instantly identify a hopper window by its rectangular form. Typically, they are installed higher up on the wall and close to the ceiling. Therefore, they provide better ventilation.
The name “hopper windows” is given to this window style due to the way they swing open like hoppers or chutes. They provide excellent ventilation due to the chute-opening mechanism. This type of window fits perfectly in places like bathrooms, basements, and above doorways. The window sashes on hopper outlets can open at an angle of 45 or 90 degrees. They mostly resemble awning windows. The only major difference is in the way they open. Hopper glass windows are hinged at the bottom and open by tilting inward from the top. While the awning windows open by pushing the top-mounted window sash outward. So you can essentially consider hopper-style windows an upside-down version of awning windows.
Benefits of Hopper Windows
Hopper glass windows are typically installed above or below picture windows in a room to provide optimal ventilation and a sleek appearance. They can be installed in the standard manner or upside down. The orientation of the installation changes the position of the hinges. The hinges can be on the top or bottom, but they always open inward. There are a number of reasons that will encourage you to opt for hopper windows for basements, bathrooms, and other rooms that are low on ventilation. Let’s discuss some.
● Ventilation
Hopper-style windows are best known for their ventilation properties. They are typically positioned high up on the wall where they can deliver their full potential. Due to its ventilation benefit, hopper-style. The windows are used as a venting transom over a narrow entrance, in the basement, above the shower area in the bathroom, and along with the picture windows.
● Energy Efficiency
Hopper-style windows have superior seals on the hinges, making them an excellent energy-saving option. When the window is closed, a tight seal is created between the window pane and the frame. Thus ensuring optimum energy efficiency. The energy efficiency of hopper-style windows can be maximized by employing energy-rated glass.
● Easy to Clean
The sash of a hopper glass window swings inward to operate, which makes it quite accessible for cleaning and maintenance purposes. You can thoroughly clean the window without even going outdoors.
● Easy to Install
This window style features a considerably simple design. It is also easy to operate. Since they have fewer moving parts, they are frequently more cost-effective and easier to install.
● Safety
Hopper-style windows are a great option for ensuring a high level of security. They are typically so small that maneuvering a break-in through them is totally impractical. Their high installation makes them hard to access for potential intruders.
Hopper Windows Sizes
Hopper glass windows are often small. They have a narrow opening at the top. This style of window frequently serves as a practical option for basements, bathrooms, and entryways. Due to their small size, they are often employed in pairs with casement windows. The appropriate hopper window size depends on its utility. They can be narrower or wider depending on the place of installation. They are typically one foot wide and three feet tall. 12″to 24″ height and 30″to 36″ length are considered standard hopper windows sizes.
Suitable Places for Hopper Window Installation
Hopper-style windows are highly adaptable and unique. They can be installed in laundry rooms, basements, above tubs, and in shower areas. They can also be used to illuminate the walk-in closets with natural light. Here are some popular places of use for hopper-style windows.
- Sidewalks: Hopper windows help maintain airflow in the sidewalks that face walkways, patios, and garages without obstructing the path in high-traffic spaces.
- Basements: As there isn’t much vertical space so hopper windows for basements are a practical choice. Basement hopper windows maintain proper ventilation and add aesthetic appeal to the basement.
- Kitchens: Installing a hopper-style window over the sink is an excellent way of giving the kitchen interior a distinctive flair while also enhancing the ventilation.
- Bathrooms: Privacy and ventilation are the two main elements of proper bathroom space. Installing hopper-style windows above the tub or shower allows the natural light in while also venting the steam and pollutants out.
Recommended Glass Types for Hopper Windows
Just like other windows, the best glass for hopper-style windows is energy-efficient glass. Here are the two best glass options for hopper-style windows.
● Insulated Glass
Insulated glass is meant to enhance energy efficiency by keeping the outside air from coming in. Insulated glass panels improve the energy efficiency of the hopper glass window even more. So it is a great option for achieving maximum energy efficiency.
● Tempered Glass
Tempered glass panels combine energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety in one package. It is impact resistant and easily available. Toughened glass can also endure weather changes. So it emerges as a good option for hopper-style windows.
Cost of Hopper Style Windows
Due to its modest design and simple installation, a hopper-style window comes at a reasonable price. You can get a standard hopper glass window installed for around $200 to $500. High-end hopper-style windows can cost you up to $700.
Also Read: Garden Windows: All You Need to Know in 2022 Single Hung Vs Double Hung Windows: Which One’s Better? How to Replace Picture Window Glass?- Explicit Guide!
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right style and type is one of the trickiest parts of installing a new window. There are tons of style options along with shape and size variations. However, staying simple and avoiding complexity is always a win-win solution. Instead of finding a window style that requires complex installation, you might just opt for a strategically placed hopper window. It has a significant impact on the appearance of your house, both inside and out. While the practical worth of basement hopper windows is unmatchable. So keep this style option in mind while considering old window replacement or new window installation.
