Key Reasons to Install Tilt & Turn Windows in Your Property

NI’s damp weather, frequent rains, and the need for a secure window that does not break the view from your property require a tilt & turn window. This blog will explain the reasons why you should switch to tilt & turn windows for your home or commercial space. 

Key Takeaways

• Tilt & turn windows are smart windows that complement your property’s style
• They offer superior energy efficiency, are suitable for moisture-laden environments, and ensure top-notch security
• They are safe for adults as well as children, reduce noise, and increase property value 
• They are also available in versatile designs

Tired of the common window designs? It is time you tried out a new window style for your property. Tilt & Turn Windows are the new norm that everyone is considering now. These windows give you two designs for the price of one, because you can open them outwards as well as tilt them inwards! You can get them in larger dimensions as well, making them suitable for people who do not want broken views from their spaces.

But that’s not where the benefits end. This blog will explain the major reasons why you should install these windows in your property. Read on to know what they are. 

What Makes Tilt & Turn Windows Different from Other Types of Windows 

Tilt and turn windows come with an innovative hinge mechanism that offers unmatched performance and flexibility. These windows are modernized versions of the traditional European (German) casement windows that can also be opened to 90 degrees. 

They come with three handle functions: one for locking, one for turning (usually when you need to clean the window), and another for tilting (to keep the rain out without restricting ventilation). 

1. Superior Energy Efficiency – What it Means for Your Energy Bills

What is a window that does not lower your energy bills? Smart windows that come with thermal efficiency are something that new property owners should never miss. For example, our tilt & turn windows are installed using our trademarked SmartFit™ method. This standard ensures that you get the best thermal efficiency considering the current market demands. 

These windows come with grade A++ thermal efficiency, which makes the windows 20% more energy efficient than usual A+ models. As they are air-tight when closed, you get to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Our windows also come with triple glazing, which offers better insulation and safeguards against Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

2. Built for Northern Ireland’s Damp Climate – Stop Rain, Not Ventilation

Rain is frequent in Northern Ireland, with Lisburn experiencing 3.9 months of the damp season in a year. Overall, the mild and humid climatic conditions with 180 days of annual rainfall on average, make these windows a very good option that offers weatherproof ventilation. You can tilt the window inward, allowing rainwater to slide off the window while only fresh air flows in through the opening. 

Furthermore, you do not have to worry about the window experiencing moisture damage. The uPVC feature of these windows makes them safe from damage due to rainwater. Also, if your property is in the coastal areas of Northern Ireland, we suggest that you install this window. They allow constant airflow while keeping the moisture out. 

3. Proven Security with Multi-Point Locking

Worried about security? These smart double opening windows​ come with multi-point locking and internal mechanisms, unlike single-point locks of traditional casements. Even in emergencies, they offer outstanding fire escape solutions to any room they are installed in. But how will you be sure of the security standards?

Well, Smart Homes NI only offers windows that exceed the government standards of “Secured by Design”. These windows are also made according to the PAS24 hardware standards that offer total safety for everyone. This standard ensures that the glass cannot be removed by anyone from the outside and that the frame can withstand high mechanical pressure without buckling. 

4. Child Safety – Windows You Can Leave Open without Worries

For families with children, if you are worried about whether this window will be safe or not, we can vouch for it. The tilt position physically prevents the usual opening size, allowing only 2 to 3 inches to remain open. Also, the tilt function allows the window to open inward at the top, so your child stays safe inside. 

In case you want added security, you can equip your window with a key-operated handle so that only elders can turn the window for cleaning. So, when there is a child in the room, you can stay worry-free because they cannot totally open the window, fall through or climb out of it. This prevents the issue of casement windows that open wide with just a single latch. 

5. Easy Cleaning without Risks – No Ladders or Scaffolding

The turn function allows the window to fully swing inward so that you can access both sides of the glass from inside the room. This is valuable for upper-floor windows and two-story semis and detached homes. It is safe for the person cleaning them, as there is no need for ladders and scaffolds to be placed outside for cleaning. 

Considering the frequent rainfall in Northern Ireland, including homes in the urban areas, window panes need to be cleaned frequently. Moreover, PVC and aluminium tilt and turn windows are durable and low-maintenance, needing cleaning every 3 to 6 months. So, if your property does not have these windows yet, get them. Because now you know why they are better.  

6. Noise Reduction – Quieter Rooms in Urban Areas

Acoustic insulation/isolation is another reason you should install these two-way windows. Considering that all our windows come with triple-glazing capabilities, they maximize sound-proofing. So, for people residing near the M1, Sprucefield retail park, and other busier streets in Lisburn, these windows are a great option. 

This noise reduction feature also makes the window stormproof. So, if you need to cancel all sounds from outside, this window is your solution. Also, triple-glazed options of this window can reduce outside noise by up to 45dB. So, why not get a window that helps improve your sleep quality and wellbeing?  

7. Increased Property Value with Smart Investment

Installing a new double/triple-glazed window, which is energy efficient and secure, to your modern home can add up to 10% to your existing property value. Also, considering the Northern Ireland EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ratings, the better your EPC is, the better your property’s price for sale will be. Especially when you have large tilt and turn windows, which improve curb appeal and show that the property is well-maintained.

This will get you more potential buyers when it is time to sell it. Even if the window is a bit costlier than standard casement windows, it is not an expense because it adds value to your property. Our windows come with a 20-year frame guarantee and a 15-year glass protection warranty, so it is even better!

How Windows Influence EPC Rating:

• Glazing type (properties with double and triple-glazed windows get high ratings)
• Energy efficiency (better windows are required to get a minimum C rating for compliance)
• Frame condition and U-values (air leakage and heat passing through) determine ratings

9. Versatile Designs – Options Include Aluminium and Grade A uPVC

As you have already seen in the previous sections, usually there are two types of materials used for manufacturing these windows. Aluminium and uPVC. They are available in large sizes and a variety of colors, like Anthracite Grey or simple White. For example, we provide 20 color variations for all tilt and turn uPVC windows​ as well as aluminium ones. The following table presents a comparison for easy understanding of the common variations. 

Table 1: Suitable Window Material Based on Property Features

Are Tilt & Turn Windows Right for Your Property? 

These windows are suitable for small rooms, bathrooms, upper floors, and modern extensions, flats, and urban properties. However, it is not suggested for listed buildings where outward-opening casements are stipulated. Or for properties in strict conservation areas. If you are not sure what to do, you can get in touch with us to consult on which window will suit your property the best. 

Get Tilt & Turn Windows for Your Own Home Today!

If your property’s windows are making it difficult for you to clean them and you always end up worrying about security, you have a solution. Switch to tilt & turn windows from Smart Homes NI and experience the benefits yourself! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a uPVC tilt and turn window?

A uPVC tilt & turn window is a modern window system that opens outward at 90 degrees and inward from the top, giving a gap of around 2 to 3 inches. It ensures secure ventilation, keeping rain out and is also easy to clean. It is made from durable and low-maintenance unplasticized PVC (polyvinyl chloride), unlike wood and aluminium alternatives.

2. What are the pros and cons of sash vs. tilt and turn windows?

Sash windows are classic and offer only vertical ventilation, and they are suitable for traditional homes. But these are less energy-efficient and difficult to clean. However, tilt & turn windows are easy to clean, open two ways (outward and inward), offer better energy efficiency, and higher security.

3. Are tilt and turn windows more secure?

Yes, multi-point locking, tilt position, and internal beading, which cannot be forced open from the outside, make it more secure. They can also be cleaned easily from the inside. This makes it safer for the cleaner who does not need ladders or anything to clean it from the outside. These windows also exceed PAS 24 and Secured Design Standards.

4. Do tilt and turn windows break easily?

No. Tilt & turn windows do not break easily because they are made to last 25 to 30 years. They also come with a frame and glass guarantee, with robust hardware and locking systems.