Inward vs Outward Opening Windows Part 1

There are numerous differences between inward and outward opening windows.

 

If you have travelled throughout Europe you may have noticed that a lot of the more Southern, warmer countries predominantly use inward opening windows, whereas the countries more in the north, colder climates, use outward opening windows. But why?

 

In this 2-part blog we are going to look into the function, appearance and performance of the windows and the pros and cons of each system. We will explore the technical and performance differences in Part 2 of this blog here.

 

Outward opening windows (sometimes referred to as casement windows) have predominantly slimmer profiles, meaning that less frame is visible and more glass, something which more modern buildings / architecture look for.

The outward opening of the windows allows for the internal window cill to be utilised for objects such as photo frames / vases etc. Also internal blinds can be installed without interfering with the windows functionality. There are a various range of outward opening options, including reversible windows which allow for the opening sash to be turned to face the inside of the building for easy cleaning.

 

Outward opening windows have a variety of opening types. Check out the below video which shows the operation of the main types of opening.

 

 

Inward opening windows (often referred to as tilt & turns) tend to have slightly chunkier frames which in turn reduces the area of glass you get ever so slightly. One major benefit of having the window open inwards, is that you can clean the external glass and frame from the inside of a building, this is particularly useful for first floor windows. Obviously, however, when the window is opened any objects on the window cill will have to moved first and it is difficult, but not impossible, to have internal blinds without interfering with the window.

 

The use of the "tilt" mode of inward opening windows allows for good ventilation of a room with the window unlikely to slam shut.

 

Warmer European countries tend to use inward opening windows because you can use external shutters so that windows can be open to allow a breeze throughout a building but at the same time keep out the glaring sun and insects.

 

The opening of inward opening windows tends to work with two options, a tilt mode and a turn mode, operated using one single handle. Check out our video below for a demonstration.

 

 

 

In Part 2 of this blog we will look into the technical & performance differences between inward and outward opening window systems. Read Part 2 here!