Learn about Tilt-and-Turn Window

Tilt-and-turn is a European-style window designed for functionality and energy-efficiency.

A tilt-and-turn window has two ways to open, chosen using a handle with three settings:

• closed, tilt (tilts inward at the top for normal ventilation), and
• turn (swings inward wide open for cleaning or rapid ventilation.

Think of it as a casement window and a hopper window all in one.  Tilt-and-turn window sizes vary, but most often they are close to the size of a door.

As far as a tilt-and-turn window's energy efficiency, you should go after the same requirements as any other window. Specifically, you'll want to start by looking for the Energy Star window rating label in North America. It contains these factors for windows:

• U-value (inverse of R-value) measures how fast heat flows through, so lower U-value is better,
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well the window transfers solar heat energy, air leakage (lower is better),
• and Energy Rating (ER - dimensionless) is a combination all those factors (higher ER is better).

Excellent U-values are around 1 W per sq. m per degree (equivalent to R5), and excellent ER ratings are above 35.

Tilt-and-turn windows close tightly against a seal, and many models have a double seal, so they prevent air leakage and save energy. In spring and fall, they can be tilted open at the top for fresh air. They don't tilt open enough to let a person in, so you can leave them open. Another great feature is that they can optionally swing completely open to the inside, making it easy to clean the outer surface of the glass.

Tilt-and turn windows originated in Germany and have been around for decades in Europe. In North America, however, adoption has been slow and is only now starting to grow with increased demand in high-efficiency windows.