What Is a Tilt and Turn Window: A Complete Guide

A tilt and turn window is a window which opens inwards, however, they offer you two ways to open the window. Firstly, it tilts opening from the top, allowing you to ventilate your room. Secondly, you can ‘turn’ the window whilst hinged from the side, giving you a large opening.

These windows are particularly popular in UK home due to their elegant appearance and practical features. Their dual functionality makes them particularly suitable for modern homes where space efficiency and versatility are key.

How Do Tilt and Turn Windows Work?

Tilt and turn windows operate through a single-handle mechanism that controls both opening functions. The tilt and turn handle, typically positioned on the side of the window, has three distinct positions:

Closed Position (Handle Pointing Down): The window is fully closed and locked with all locking points engaged around the frame perimeter.

Tilt Position (Handle Pointing Up): Rotating the handle 180 degrees upward engages the tilt mechanism. The window opens inwards from the top whilst remaining locked along the bottom and sides, creating a secure ventilation gap.

Turn Position (Handle Pointing Horizontally): Moving the handle to the horizontal position releases the side hinges, allowing the window to swing open inward like a door for full access.

The mechanism relies on precision-engineered locks and strike plates that engage different locking points depending on the handle position.

Tilt & Turn Window FAQs

Are tilt and turn windows secure?

Tilt and turn windows offer fantastic security benefits due to the locking systems used. Unlike a traditional window, tilt and turn windows have points of locking on all four sides of the window.

Multiple locking points distributed around all four sides of the window frame, create a robust barrier against forced entry. In contrast, conventional windows typically feature locking mechanisms on just one side, making them more vulnerable to break-in attempts.

Even when in the tilt position, the window remains securely locked along the bottom and sides, allowing ventilation without compromising security.

Can tilt and turn windows open outwards?

You can’t open tilt and turn windows outwards. This wouldn’t work because the tilt function would create a waterfall effect allowing water to just run straight in to your home.

How big can a tilt and turn window be?

Tilt and turn windows can be manufactured to quite a large size. However, the maximum size is usual restricted by the material used and the maximum weight the hinge mechanisms can handle. You should be able to get this information directly from the window manufacturer.

How do tilt and turn windows work?

Tilt and turn windows work off a single handle. When you turn the handle to the first position it engages the tilt function. This allows you to tilt the window inwards. Rotating the handle to the second position engages the turn function allowing your window to open from the side.

Hopefully this answers all your questions about tilt and turn windows. We also have a useful guide on how to replace a tilt and turn window handle. If you're looking to buy tilt and turn window handles, take a look at our store.

As always if you need any more assistance please don’t hesitate to contact us or take a look at our guides here.