The majority of double or triple glazed windows in people’s homes only open one way. You have casement windows which open outwards to one side, sash windows which slide up and down, and awning windows that open outwards from the bottom.
On the other hand, tilt and turn windows are incredibly flexible and can make your life so much easier. For those of you who are unsure what exactly these are, there are two ways tilt and turn windows can be opened:
(1) on a hinge at the side of the window similar to a casement window
(2) on a hinge on the bottom of the window similar to a hopper window
In other words, they open in multiple directions through the use of a single operating handle. Whereas a sash window (first adopted in England) merely slides up and down and shows a frontal view, tilt and turn windows (first adopted in Germany) provide a three-quarters view and open inwards for heightened safety, ventilation, and easier upkeep.
Here are the main advantages of tilt and turn windows.
1. Aesthetics
Let’s start right away with the aesthetics of tilt and turn windows, as it happens to be one of their most significant benefits. Due to the design of these windows, you can either have a large uninterrupted piece of glass or several different panes to get the same look as a sash window.
For even more customization, you can choose from aluminum or wood-aluminum and from a variety of different glazings, handles, colors, and frame choices. You can also select the direction of the tilt. The aesthetics of these windows are out of this world!
2. Ventilation
But it isn’t just about the aesthetics, tilt and turn windows also have a lot of functional advantages. By having the option of opening the window in two different ways, you are suddenly given a lot more control over the amount of ventilation you wish to let in. By “tilting” the windows by 90 degrees, you are allowing hot air to escape quickly and natural light to enter your home, but stopping before there means maximum ventilation.
On the other hand, by utilizing the 180-degree “turning” function of the windows, you are creating generous airflow and movement. Whatever your room needs at that particular moment, tilt and turn windows will definitely deliver!
3. Cleaning
On a more practical note, tilt-and-turn windows are some of the easiest to clean because the windows open all the way horizontally. This design feature means that you can effortlessly clean both sides of the window.
You don’t need a ladder nor do you need to worry about safety; you can just pull each window towards you and have it sparklingly clean in no time. If you live in an apartment or a multi-storeyed home, this is definitely an advantage you want to take into consideration.
4. Airtightness
Tilt and turn windows also provide a more airtight seal than sash windows. This is important because it reduces the need for heating and cooling in a building. The more superior the airtightness, the less drafty your windows would be, and the more comfortable your home is!
5. Security and Safety
The design of the in-swing hinges of tilt and turn windows make them difficult to force open from the exterior. This is because they come with robust internal hardware with multiple locking points. Additionally, tilt and turn windows have an anti-switch barrier, a security feature that stops the inadvertent movement from tilt to turn or vice versa, and an anti-slam device.
The advantages of tilt and turn windows are significant, ranging from safety to ventilation to ease of cleaning. It is no wonder that they are the preferred style of windows on the European continent. Installing tilt and turn windows could be the exact thing your home needs.
