A Complete Guide to Tilt and Turn Windows in the USA
As an architect or builder today, it’s key to find products that blend energy efficiency, longevity, and style. If that describes you, we'd like to direct you to European-made tilt and turn windows and doors.
Learn how tilt and turn windows are superior in design, efficiency, and functionality.
Tilt and Turn Windows offer unique functionality
After a century of refinement and innovation, European tilt and turn windows are now readily available in the USA. Get to know the unique features and benefits of tilt and turn windows so you can optimize their full capabilities in your projects.
What are Tilt and Turn Windows?
As the name suggests, tilt-and-turn windows have dual opening functionality. They both tilt inward, and turn to open. More on how they work in next section.
By contrast, windows constructed in the USA are typically built with two panes that slide over one another. This is called “single hung” or “double hung.” American-made windows could also be configured as sliding and crank-out casement windows.
Tilt and turn windows are uniquely European, and more specifically, German. Innovative engineering is behind the design of these energy-efficient, extra secure, and high-performing windows.
In addition to those important benefits, tilt and turn windows are available here in the USA in various sizes and configurations that offer light, ventilation, beauty, and style to any building.
Ready for pricing? Request a custom quote for European tilt-and-turn windows.
How Do Tilt and Turn Windows Work?
These unique windows open two ways:
The first way is by tilting into the room 10 to 20 degrees from the bottom, opening at the top. This angle allows fresh air into the room while still providing security.
The second way is by turning into the room from the side, similar to a door. This configuration makes the windows very easy to clean.
A simple turn of a lever completes both functions. When the window is closed, multiple locking pins hold it securely shut.
Tilted Position
Turned Position
Closed Position
6 Benefits of Tilt and Turn Windows
There are several benefits to utilizing European tilt and turn windows in the USA for your building projects. Tilt-and-turn windows are:
Energy Efficient: Tilt-and-turn windows are designed specifically for energy efficiency. Their frames come with superior thermal breaks, while their air seals (gaskets) between outer frame and vent provide unmatched air tightness. If you choose to upgrade to triple glazing, tilt-and-turn windows can easily meet Net Zero and Passive House standards.
Custom Style: Tilt and turn windows offer a more contemporary aesthetic than most American-made windows. In Europe, custom colors and designs are more standard than they are in the US. That’s one reason why you'll find a wide range of color and surface finish options that can match everything from historic buildings to high-end modern architectural designs.
Extremely Secure: Tilt and turn windows have five or more multipoint locking pins that provide exceptional resistance to forced entry, outperforming any standard double-hung or casement window. When tilted open for ventilation, they cannot just be pushed open like a slightly ajar hung window, because the maximum tilting angle is limited to 20 degrees or less. When they’re in the locked position, locking points on all sides of the vent secure it like a safe. As a result, your clients can rest assured that their windows are secure.
Easy to Open: If you have double-hung windows, you can probably count on one hand how often you open them. Not only does the opening mechanism get easily jammed, but they’re also hard to clean. That means that opening your window might mean letting dirt and insects blow in. Tilt and turn windows on the other hand are brilliantly easy to open and clean. You’ll be amazed at how often you let the breeze in to enjoy fresh air on a pleasant day.
Easy to Clean: Tilt and turn windows open completely to the inside. This means you can easily clean the entire window glazing while standing inside your home. Say goodbye to scary ladders, or watching the dirt pile up along your window sill.
Airtight: Have you ever felt a draft blow through your home while your windows and doors are all closed? Most of us have. However, because of their unique construction, tilt-and-turn windows and doors are extremely airtight. While this has clear benefits for energy efficiency, it also improves the overall comfort of your living space.
What’s the difference between German Windows and Tilt and Turn Windows?
The first tilt and turn windows were designed in Germany, so many assume that all tilt and turn windows are German-made. That’s why some people refer to tilt-and-turn windows as “German windows.” While that’s not true any longer, it is safe to say that tilt and turn windows are a European standard for builders and architects.
Some people may use the phrase “European windows” interchangeably. When experts mention German or European windows, they are referencing the tilt and turn functionality. (In case you’re interested, when people talk about European doors, they’re referring to the lift-and-slide functionality.)
How Much Do Tilt and Turn Windows Cost?
For your convenience, Bauwerk offers an online window and door design and price estimator. Choose your product, profile system, layout, dimensions, openings, and other design variables to build your custom window quote. In the web app, you can personalize your choices to match your specific needs. The calculator will estimate the retail price per window or project for any Bauwerk house brand product with the click of your mouse.
Where Can You Buy Tilt and Turn Windows in the US?
In the past, American builders had to source tilt and turn windows from Europe, which often caused building delays and increased costs. These days, European windows and doors are readily available from many window companies in the United States, including Bauwerk.
The benefit of sourcing European windows from Bauwerk is we can offer both stateside manufacturing and, through our office in Berlin, a direct connection to an extensive network of European manufacturers which eliminates the middleman and keeps prices low.
What Tilt and Turn Window Brands Does Bauwerk Offer?
Bauwerk sources several high-quality European window manufacturers, including:
These brands set the standard for modern, cutting-edge window and door design. They build products that last generations, and help keep your home safe and sustainable.
Bauwerk also provides an in-house window and door brand that combines energy efficiency and durability with high-end materials and contemporary design. Our house brand’s window and door systems are available in aluminum and uPVC.
Can You Use Tilt and Turn Windows for Passive House Projects?
Yes! If you are working on a Passive House Project, tilt and turn windows will help you achieve your energy efficiency goals. Because these eco-friendly windows are constructed with high-quality and durable materials and are designed to be airtight, they are perfect for a Passive House.
Now that you've learned the ins and outs of tilt and turn windows available in the USA contact us today for a free consultation to explore how you can incorporate these innovative and beautiful products into your building projects.