In a discussion with a window supplier, I realized that tilt-and-turn windows don't have a restraint in the same way that outward opening windows do. So they're free to flap around when 'turned' open. So the only time you 'turn' them open is to clean them. But you can clean ground floor windows easily enough from the outside. So is there any point in tilt-and-turn on the ground floor or should they all be tilt-only?

Is my understanding correct? Can anybody who's lived with the windows confirm my thoughts, or tell me what I've missed?

Escape?

I love mine, far more secure, better ironmongery (if is from Europe) tilt is brilliant for secure ventilation, turn is very useful for cleaning ( difficult to reach the top from outside) perfect with my external shutters etc

Posted By: Ed DaviesEscape?

Our gable end loft windows are T&T, with hinges at the side for turn & base for tilt, Then used as 'Turn' they are effectively an inward opening door. I've often used one as a means of getting things in & out of the (lined) loft. If we ever fully converted the loft they would be fine for escape use.

A problem we find with using "tilt" ventilation is that the tilt isn't enough to allow gravity to fight against the suck & pull of breezes, so you can get slamming. So if we want ventilation I open the tilt, then drop a pre-prepared batton across the open window so it 'sits' in the V formed on each side between the open window & the frame which effectively jams the window open.

skyewright, our windows are triple glazed and the sashes are quite heavy. When in tilt mode there is a gap of 80mm between the sash and frame at the top. I haven't had them slam but then I only open them when I am working in the house and it's too hot or dusty.

Posted By: Ed DaviesEscape?

I think not required at all since I believe we will have a protected stairwell and hall, but we will have big enough turn-open windows upstairs in any case. All downstairs rooms have access to the hall or a direct external door, so definitely no escape windows needed on the ground floor.

Incidentally, another question that was raised was the conflict between the requirement for no locks on escape windows and the requirements for key-operated window locks from some insurers. Does anybody have any experience with that issue?

Posted By: davidfreeboroughIs there a "friction hinge" option?

There isn't for the turn motion as far as I know. I don't know about the tilt motion but as the windows will be quite heavy I suspect there won't be too much problem and a friction hinge might make them difficult to operate. I'll ask anyway, thanks for the thought.