Slider windows are some of the most commonly found windows in homes across Canada. It is often possible to get good performance ratings out of them, at a fraction of the price of higher efficiency casements or awnings.
A lot of window manufacturers in Canada also make tilt and turn windows alongside slider windows and hung windows. The main benefit of these type of windows is that they allow the sash or both sashes to tilt inward into the room for easy cleaning.
Remember, regardless of the window type or style you get, you should consider getting windows that are rated to keep your home comfortable based on the region where you are located. You can see all the ENERGY STAR rated windows in Canada as well as which windows are CSA accredited.
What you should know about slider windows vs. tilt-and-turn windows
When looking at new sliding windows, customers often come across tilt-and-turn windows. The sashes in these units can be unlatched to turn at a 90-degree angle to the frame, much like the sash in casement windows.
Although this feature looks very modern especially in a double slider, homeowners often misunderstand its true purpose. While these windows can give you a beautiful unobstructed view, the turn-in in function is intended as a maintenance feature. It allows for cleaning of the outer side of the window from the inside of the house.
You shouldn’t keep the sash in a turned-in position as the weight of the sash can cause stress on the frame resulting in deformation or even breakage. This is especially crucial in triple pane slider windows because their sashes are much heavier.
Single Slider Windows
A single tilt-sliding vinyl window operates horizontally (side to side). One sash is stationary and the other sash moves and can tilt into the room for easy cleaning.
Double Slider Butterfly
A double tilt slider vinyl window has two sashes that move sideways. One or both can tilt into the room for easy cleaning. You have the benefit of opening one or both sashes at once, controlling the ventilation in your home.
End Vent Tilt Slider
The end vent slider features two venting sashes with a low fixed centre sash. When a window opening is wider than 74” and a sliding option is desired, the end vent slider is the most effective option available.
Single Hung Windows
A single hung vinyl window operates vertically (up and down). One sash is stationary and the other sash moves up and down and can tilt into the room for easy cleaning.
Double Hung Windows
Double hung vinyl windows have two sashes that move up and down and both can tilt into the room for easy cleaning. You have the benefit of opening one or both sashes at once, controlling the ventilation in your home.
Remember, although they look and may function in similar ways, slider, and hung windows cannot be truly considered tilt and turn. The sash in sliding style windows is meant to be pulled inward only for cleaning purposes. It is not advised to leave the sash hanging in this position as it can cause stress on the frame and cause your windows to deform or event break. Tilt and turn windows are designed with that function in mind.
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