Window Treatments that Won’t Interfere with Window Crank Handles

Windows with a crank handle, such as casement and awning windows, pose a particular challenge when it comes to dressing them. It’s important to choose a window covering that doesn’t get in the way of the crank handle so you can still operate your window with ease and without worry of damaging your window treatment. 

So which window coverings should you be looking at if you have casement or awning windows? We’ll break down everything you need to know when buying new window treatments for these tricky windows. 

What to Consider

There are a few things you want to consider when buying new window coverings for casement and awning windows. 

First is depth. If your crank handle sticks out far and you have a small casing, you may not have enough depth for mounting a window treatment inside your window. In this case, you may need to mount a treatment above your window. While this may not be ideal for everyone’s tastes, it does give you an opportunity to play with decorative cornices and custom valances! If you have a deeper window casing, you may still be able to mount a treatment inside of your window frame, but for treatments such as blinds or shutters, you’ll need to consider the width of the slats to ensure they can open and close without hitting the crank handle. 

The second consideration is material. You want a window covering that is made from durable materials. It’s nearly inevitable that your window treatment may come into contact with the crank handle, such as the bottom bar of cordless shades hitting the handle when a child is being a little careless and quick. 

Custom window treatments offer higher quality, more durable materials, and can help ensure that your window covering is the perfect fit for your window. So if you have a tricky window, such as casement or awning, it’s worth opting for custom to ensure your window treatment lasts! 

Our Favorite Window Treatments for Casing and Awning Windows

There are several window coverings that we believe work best with windows that have a crank handle. These treatments are least likely to interfere with the crank and operation of your window. 

1. 
   Roller and Solar Shades: These window coverings have a low profile that are less likely to obstruct the crank handle. We recommend opting for cordless so that you don’t have a cord that gets stuck around the crank handle. 
2. Roman Shades: These can be mounted above the window frame (outside the casing), ensuring they don’t interfere with the crank, while giving you a hefty dose of style! Roman shades come in a variety of materials, colors, and patterns; plus you can opt for an extra lining such as room darkening or blackout. 
3. Interior Shutters:  Interior shutters are great for awning and casement windows as long as your frame is wide enough to allow for them since this window covering is mounted directly to the window frame. You also want to choose a slat width that won’t interfere with the crank and ensure the vanes are mounted so they don’t interfere with the frame. 
4. Cellular Shades: If you are looking for an insulating window treatment, look no further! Cellular shades can work with windows that have a crank handle, however, there are some special considerations; you might need a reverse roll option or spacer blocks to create enough clearance for the crank. 

We Can Handle Those Tricky Windows!

Elevated Views is a locally family-owned custom window covering company servicing the entire Front Range of Colorado. We’ve been helping people just like you fall in love with your windows all over again. Our experienced team has seen and done it all, including those tricky casement and awning windows! 

We make purchasing your next window covering an enjoyable experience. Our team’s years of experience and ongoing training ensure that you receive excellent service and the perfect window treatment to match your needs, budget, and style. 

Schedule a free in-home consultation and quote today and we’ll bring the showroom to you!