A Tilt and Turn Window is the most popular sliding window (or swing door) style in North America. The name Tilt and Turn comes from the tilting motion of the hinged windows. In North America, this term describes a whole set of related products including shower enclosures and wind chimes. They are generally made from acrylic, fiberglass or wood. The most common styles include single and double hung, depending on the desired amount of slant.

While the name may imply a window or door that tilts and turns, the products do more than simply allow users to tilt and turn. Most have superior air circulation, thermal insulation, privacy, and additional features such as rain and snow removal. Many have panes with a thin film of insulation between the glass and the aluminum frame. When properly insulated, these windows can work as double panes doors or even as insulated windows.

For a complete view, the tilt and turn window must provide a way to fully lift the glass for full ventilation and clear vision. Two standard styles include a vertical handle or a pull handle. The vertical handle provides a single handle and is usually less expensive. While the pull handle offers two handles, it requires two hands to operate and may not provide a complete view. For homes with larger windows or sliding doors, having both types of windows can be a cost of entry that must be considered.

For those who appreciate the aesthetic benefit, but prefer the energy savings provided by the tilt and turn window, there are also models designed with the double/ triple panes and optimized for thermal insulation. The glass on the tilt and turn windows can be frosting to give the appearance of frost on the outside of the frame. To prevent wind from entering, the doors are designed with one-way panes. This means they can be opened inwards or outwards but can only be forced open inwards.

With superior air flow through the double panes of glass, the Tilt and Turn Windows offer energy efficiency as well as better draft control than standard windows. It is important to note the air flow rating on these doors. An interior liner is installed inside the windows. The greater the thermal resistance, the higher the cost per square foot. The trade off is worth the cost, as the doors are sealed tightly against outside elements such as cold and hot weather.

The tilt and turn door and window are made with a steel frame to support the weight of the glass panes. For the frames, steel is usually the best choice as it has superior strength and is more resistant to corrosion than most other materials. To further improve energy efficiency and reduce draft, double paned windows are installed by a professional. This not only ensures the doors are sealed tightly, but also that the casement windows have proper air flow.

Double paned glass is usually made of fiberglass, but are available in metal as well. The best choice of material is one made from a fire-resistant material such as steel re-enforced polyester (RPM), as it is both durable and flame resistant. These doors and windows are constructed in two separate sections, with the hinges located in the rear wall and the ventilation pocket located in the front wall. Once opened, both halves fold together to allow access to the air flow pocket and the panes of glass.

The tilt and turn windows require an installer to access the inner workings of the system. This is often beyond the skill of the average home owner, therefore many homeowners are now opting to pay a company to install this important type of home improvement. Hiring a professional ensures the right seals are used on the tilt and turn doors and that no drafts are created through overdraft holes in the doors. In addition, a quality installation will also ensure no leaks are present, ensuring your energy efficiency rating remains high.