Bring natural light and fresh air into your basement with a hopper window. Featuring a bottom hinge, hopper windows open and close from the top. They’re perfect for a basement where there’s not enough space for a full-sized window.

If you want to learn how hopper basement windows work or why you should install hoppers in your basement, we’re here to help. Today, we’re answering some of the most common questions about hopper windows.

What Are Hopper Windows for a Basement?

A hopper-style window gets its name from the way it leans. The window is rectangular, hinged at the bottom, and has a latch at the top of the frame. When you open it, the sash leans inside your home at an angle of up to 90°. At this point, it looks like a hopper, aka a funnel-shaped storage container.

Hopper windows typically don’t require much space and are often installed close to a ceiling. Additionally, they may be used to increase lighting and ventilation in a tight space.

Why Should You Install Hopper Windows in Your Basement?

Reasons why homeowners choose hopper basement windows include:

• Energy Efficiency: Hopper windows have lower air leakage rates than many other popular window types and technologies.
• Safety: Even if you open a hopper window to a 90° angle, it typically won’t be big enough for someone to fit through it. 
• Sunlight: A hopper window lets you bring sunlight into your basement. 
• Ventilation: Opening a hopper window can help you get fresh air in your basement. 
• Versatility: You can install a hopper window in any type of home. 

In addition, cleaning a hopper window is a breeze – simply open it up and wipe it down. You can clean both sides easily from inside the home.  

Are There Any Other Rooms Where I Can Install Hopper Windows?

Generally, hopper-style windows work best in rooms where you want to increase ventilation, energy efficiency, and sunlight and don’t have a lot of wall space. In addition to your basement, other spaces where hopper windows work well:

• Bathroom
• Laundry Room
• Kitchen

To determine where hopper windows should go in your home, meet with a window dealer. From here, the dealer will learn about you and your home and help you in the decision-making process.

Are Hopper Basement Windows the Best Option for My Home?

In addition to hopper windows, awning and slider basement windows are available. Awning windows are hinged at the top and swing outward. With slider windows, there are two sashes. One sash can be stationary, or both sashes can move side-to-side.

Like hopper windows, awning and slider windows don’t take up a lot of wall space. With a slider window, you may be able to make it big enough to meet the minimum egress requirements. If the window meets egress, you may be able to use your window as an emergency exit and have a bedroom in the basement.

If you have a large basement, picture windows can be great additions. These windows do not open. They can help insulate your basement and let natural light indoors.

As you evaluate basement windows, consider how they open and if you need them to do so. Hoppers, awnings, and sliders  open from the top, bottom, and side, respectively. Meanwhile, picture windows won’t open at all.

If you’re wondering how different types of windows stack up against each other, consult with a window dealer. Next, the dealer will teach you about its products and services, helping you select windows that perfectly complement your basement. 

Should I Get Hopper Windows at My Home?

If you can’t decide between awning and hopper windows, learn more on the SoftLite Windows & Doors website. Do your homework before choosing windows that will serve you well for a long time. 

If you’re ready to buy hopper windows or are considering all of the options at your disposal, check out our dealer locator to start your hopper window replacement journey.