Tilt and Turn Windows

A tilt and turn window opens in two different ways from a single handle. Turn the handle part way and the top of the sash tilts inwards a few inches, giving secure ventilation. Turn it fully and the whole sash swings into the room on side hinges, like a door. The design is common across Europe and increasingly popular in the UK for flats, high-rise buildings and modern homes. Sean Cardwell Windows works from Weston-super-Mare, and this page explains tilt and turn windows in general terms so you can judge whether they suit your home.

How the mechanism works

Inside the sash is a single gear system linked to the handle. In the tilt position, hinges at the bottom hold the sash and a stay at the top limits how far it leans in. In the turn position, the bottom corner hinge and a top pivot become the side hinge. Locking points around the whole perimeter engage when the handle is down. Because one mechanism controls everything, it needs to be correctly adjusted at installation and kept clean afterwards.

Where tilt and turn windows suit

Inward opening makes cleaning the outside glass easy from indoors, which is a real benefit on upper floors and in flats where reaching outside is unsafe. The tilt setting lets air in while keeping the window secure and out of the weather, so it suits bedrooms and bathrooms. Large tilt and turn windows can also serve as an escape route, since the sash opens fully.

There are trade-offs. The sash swings into the room, so curtains, blinds, furniture and deep window boards need to leave space for it. Very wide openings may suit a combination of fixed panes and tilt and turn sashes rather than one large opener.

uPVC tilt and turn windows

uPVC tilt and turn windows offer the same low-maintenance frames as standard casements with the added opening options. Aluminium versions give slimmer frames for a more modern look. Our uPVC windows and aluminium windows pages explain those materials in more detail, and either can be discussed at a survey.

Tilt and turn windows cost

We do not publish prices, because cost depends on the window. The main drivers are size, as larger sashes need heavier hardware; frame material and colour; glass specification; the number of opening and fixed sections; and how easy the opening is to reach and work on. The mechanism itself is more complex than a simple casement, which is reflected in the price. A quote after measuring is the reliable way to compare.

Child safety and locking

Because the turn position opens the full sash, many households want a way to limit it. Lockable handles and restrictors can be fitted to many tilt and turn systems, allowing the tilt setting while preventing a child from turning the sash fully. Our window locks and restrictors page covers those options. When you are ready, describe the openings through the quote form.