Which type of window to choose: tilt-and-turn, casement or fixed

Before ordering a made-to-measure window you have to decide three things that can't be changed once it is made: the type of opening, the material and whether it will have an insect screen. Each decision affects the price and long-term maintenance.

Three ways to open a window

• Tilt-and-turn: can be opened tilted (ventilation) or fully (cleaning) — the most versatile option and the most usual today in new-build or renovation.
• Casement: opens fully on side hinges, without the intermediate tilted ventilation option.
• Fixed: no opening, only for openings where ventilation isn't needed (for example, high openings or large fixed areas beside another casement window).

Wood: more maintenance, better repairability

The wooden window needs more maintenance than PVC or aluminium — touching up the varnish every few years — but it can be repaired locally without replacing the whole leaf, and insulates better thermally than aluminium without a thermal break.

Finishes: varnished (shows the grain) or lacquered (opaque colour).

Shutter: interior or exterior isn't the same material

The shutter, a hinged leaf to darken or protect the opening, changes material depending on its location:

• Exterior: weather-treated wood (autoclave-treated pine or exotic wood) and galvanised or stainless hardware.
• Interior: accepts any wood and standard hardware, with no need for special treatment.

Insect screen: fixed or roller

• Fixed, pressure-fit frame: cheaper, always stays in the opening.
• Roller: more convenient because it retracts when not needed, but dearer. For sliding terrace doors, the vertical roller is the most usual option.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a tilt-and-turn and a casement window? The tilt-and-turn allows two positions — tilted to ventilate or fully open to clean — whereas the casement only opens fully.

Why does a wooden window need more maintenance than PVC? Because the exterior varnish degrades with sun and rain and has to be touched up every few years, something PVC or aluminium don't need.

Which insect screen do I choose for a sliding terrace door? The vertical roller, the most usual and practical option for that kind of opening.

Conclusion

Deciding the type of opening, the material and the extras (shutter, insect screen) before ordering the window avoids having to live with a choice that can't be changed once it is made. Explaining the real maintenance of each material to the client —not just the starting price— helps make the right choice in the long run.