Screens and Blinds for Tilt and Turn Windows: How They Work Together

When we talk with homeowners about European windows, one question comes up more than any other: if the window opens into the room, where does the screen go? And right after that: will my blinds get in the way? Both are fair questions. American windows and window treatments grew up together, and a window that tilts and swings inward changes the rules a little. Here is how screens and blinds work with European tilt and turn windows, and what we offer for each.

Where does the screen go on an inward-opening window?

On the outside. Because the sash of a tilt and turn window opens into the room, nothing has to pass through the opening from the outside. The insect screen sits on the exterior side of the frame and stays there while you tilt the window for fresh air or turn it open all the way.

That is the opposite of a casement window, which cranks outward and needs its screen on the inside. It is also why tilt and turn windows are easy to live with in summer: you can leave a window tilted all night, the screen keeps the bugs out, and you never have to touch it. If you are new to how the sash moves, read how tilt and turn windows really open.

Our insect screens

Our screens are made to order for each window:

• Mesh: glass fiber with a PVC coating, in grey or black

• Frame: aluminum, in any RAL color, so it can match your window frames

• Corners: uPVC

• Seal: rubber, with sealing brushes as an option

• Maximum size: 70" x 70"

For larger openings, sliding doors or special shapes, ask us and we will tell you what fits your project. The exact mounting depends on the window system you choose, and we list the screens in your quote together with the windows.

Can I still clean the glass?

Yes, and this is where tilt and turn windows beat most American windows. Turn the sash into the room and you can wash both sides of the glass from inside. The screen stays outside and doesn't get in the way.

Interior blinds: mount them on the sash

This is the part that surprises people. A blind mounted on the wall or inside the window opening will block the sash when you try to tilt or turn it. You would have to raise the blind every time you want to open the window.

The solution is a blind that is mounted on the sash itself, so it moves with the window:

• Roller blinds, Standard Fix: mounts into the window sash without screws, for sashes up to 0.79" wide. The blind tilts and turns together with the window.

• Roller blinds, Standard and Standard Mini: mount into the wall or ceiling, with controls on the left or right. A good choice where the window stays closed most of the time, or above the opening.

• Fabrics: how dark the room gets depends on the fabric, and blackout fabrics are available for bedrooms.

See all options on our roller blinds page.

Horizontal blinds

If you prefer classic slats, our horizontal blinds come in a version with extruded aluminum profiles that we recommend for tilt and turn windows. The slats are 1" (25 mm) wide, the ladder and cord match the slat color, and you control them by hand with a chain. They let you control light and privacy while you still see outside, and they come in a wide range of colors.

Exterior blinds: shade outside the glass

Exterior blinds sit outside the window, so they never interfere with the sash. They also stop the sun before it reaches the glass. Our exterior blinds block up to 71% of solar heat and can lower the indoor temperature by up to 14 F, which makes a real difference on south and west facing windows in hot states. They also cut glare and UV light and give you privacy.

Which combination fits which room?

• Bedrooms: an insect screen outside and a blackout roller blind mounted on the sash, so you can sleep with the window tilted.

• Living rooms and home offices: horizontal blinds or a light roller blind for glare control during the day.

• Rooms with strong afternoon sun: exterior blinds plus an insect screen.

• Windows you rarely open (picture windows, fixed glass): any interior blind works, because there is no sash to move.

FAQ

Can I use regular American blinds on tilt and turn windows?

Yes, if you mount them so they don't block the sash, for example above the window opening. Wall-mounted blinds have to be raised before you open the window. Blinds mounted on the sash avoid that.

Can I open the window with the screen in place?

Yes. The screen is on the outside and the sash opens inward, so you can tilt or turn the window at any time.

Can I order screens and blinds with my windows?

Yes. Tell us which windows need screens or blinds and we include them in your quote, sized to each window. Browse all window treatments.

Get a quote with screens and blinds included

Send us your plans or a list of window sizes and mark the rooms where you want screens and blinds. We will put together one quote for windows and window treatments. Contact us or call (321) 765-3355.