What is a Tilt and Turn Window?
Tilt and turn windows are a versatile window style that allows for two distinct methods of operation. tilting the top of the window inward for ventilation and turning it to open fully like a door. This dual functionality makes them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both convenience and security.
Tilt and turn windows are designed to open in two ways:
Tilt Position: The window tilts inward from the top, allowing for controlled ventilation without fully opening the window. This is particularly useful for maintaining indoor air quality while minimizing exposure to the elements, such as rain or strong winds.
Turn Position: The window can also be turned to open fully inward from the side hinges, similar to a door. This feature facilitates easy cleaning of the exterior glass from inside your home and provides an emergency exit option.
What are the Benefits of Tilt and Turn Windows?
Tilt and turn windows offer several advantages, including improved ventilation, enhanced security, energy efficiency, and ease of cleaning.
Tilt and turn windows provide a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for homeowners and building occupants:
Improved Ventilation: The ability to tilt or swing the window open allows for better airflow and ventilation, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment and reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Enhanced Security: Tilt and turn windows can be equipped with advanced security features, such as multi-point locking systems and reinforced frames, to deter burglars and protect your home.
Energy Efficiency: Tilt and turn windows can be designed with energy-efficient features, such as double or triple glazing and low-E coatings, to help reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, saving you money on energy bills.
Ease of Cleaning: The ability to swing the window outwards makes it easier to clean both the interior and exterior panes, ensuring your windows remain clean and well-maintained.
Versatility: Tilt and turn windows can be customized with various styles, materials, and finishes to match your home’s aesthetic, offering a versatile and adaptable window solution.
Do Tilt and Turn Windows Open Fully?
Yes, tilt and turn windows can open fully. Tilt and turn windows offer a versatile opening mechanism that allows them to be tilted inwards for ventilation or swung outwards for full opening. This feature makes them ideal for providing ample airflow, allowing for easy cleaning, or creating a wide opening for emergency exits.
Do Tilt and Turn Windows Open 180 Degrees?
No, tilt and turn windows do not typically open 180 degrees. While they can swing outwards for a wide opening, they are not designed to open fully like a French door. The tilt and turn mechanism allows for a maximum opening of around 90-120 degrees.
What is the Difference Between Casement and Tilt and turn windows?
The primary difference between casement and tilt and turn windows lies in their opening mechanisms. Casement windows swing outwards on hinges, while tilt and turn windows can be tilted inwards for ventilation or swung outwards for full opening.
Casement Windows: Casement windows are hinged along one side, allowing them to swing outwards like a door. They offer a large opening for ventilation and are often used in homes with limited space.
Tilt and Turn Windows: Tilt and turn windows have a more versatile opening mechanism. They can be tilted inwards for ventilation or swung outwards for full opening. This feature makes them ideal for providing ample airflow, allowing for easy cleaning, or creating an escape route in case of an emergency.
Are Tilt and Turn Windows Draughty?
Tilt and turn windows are generally not draughty when installed correctly and maintained properly. Tilt and turn windows are designed to provide a tight seal when closed, helping to prevent drafts and energy loss. However, factors such as improper installation, wear and tear, or environmental conditions can contribute to drafts.
Are Tilt and Turn Windows Worth it?
Yes, Tilt and turn windows are highly valued for their versatility, security, and ease of maintenance. Tilt and turn windows often feature modern double or triple glazing, which significantly improves thermal performance. They typically achieve high Window Energy Ratings (WER), indicating excellent insulation properties.
The design allows for ventilation without the risk of children falling out, as the window can be tilted to open only at the top. This makes them particularly suitable for homes with young families.
How Secure are Tilt and Turn Windows?
Tilt and turn windows are a type of window that operates on a unique mechanism allowing for both a tilting and a turning motion. One of the standout features of tilt and turn windows is their multipoint locking system. These windows typically have at least five metal locking pins that engage with a metal rail in the frame when closed.
Some models even feature up to 14 locking points, significantly enhancing their resistance to break-ins. The tilt function allows the window to open only a few inches, which is ideal for ventilation without compromising security.
Can Tilt and Turn Windows Open Outwards?
No, Tilt and Turn windows are designed to open inward, not outward. This inward-opening mechanism is a fundamental feature of their design, providing several benefits for your home.
Tilt and turn windows offer two distinct opening functions: tilting inward at the top to allow for secure ventilation or turning fully inward like a door for maximum airflow and ease of cleaning. This inward opening makes them ideal for homes where space is limited outside, such as near walkways or balconies, where outward-opening windows might pose a safety hazard or be impractical.
What is the Cost of Installing Tilt and Turn Windows in Ireland?
The cost of tilt and turn windows in Ireland typically ranges from €300 to €1,200 per window, depending on the material used. uPVC is generally the most affordable option, while aluminum and wood tend to be more expensive due to their enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
| Material Type | Cost Range (per window) |
| uPVC | €300 – €500 |
| Aluminium | €600 – €900 |
| Wood | €800 – €1,200 |
What is the Durability of Tilt and Turn Windows?
With proper installation and maintenance, Tilt and Turn windows can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on the material.
| Material Type | Durability Range | Key Features |
| uPVC | 20 – 30 years | Low maintenance, resistant to rot and corrosion, affordable |
| Aluminium | 30 – 50 years | Extremely durable, resistant to rust and corrosion, modern aesthetic |
| Wood | 20 – 40 years (with maintenance) | Natural insulation, classic appearance, requires regular maintenance |
