- Both styles seal tightly, take triple glazing and outperform sliders and hung windows.
- Tilt-and-turn offers secure tilt-vent plus an inward swing that's easy to clean on upper floors.
- Casement uses familiar crank operation with inside-mounted screens.
- Many homes use both — and every Eurostar window is built to order.
Two of the best window styles — but they're not the same
If you are choosing European windows for an Ottawa home, the decision often comes down to tilt-and-turn versus casement. Both are excellent: both seal tightly, both accept triple glazing, and both outperform sliders and hung windows on efficiency. But they open differently and suit different situations. Here's how to choose.
How each one works
Casement windows are hinged at the side and crank outward like a door. When closed, the sash compresses against the frame on all four sides for an airtight seal, and the window opens fully for maximum ventilation and easy cleaning of the outer glass from inside.
Tilt-and-turn windows are the European standard and do two things with one handle. Turn it one way and the window swings inward like a door — a full, unobstructed opening that's easy to clean. Turn it the other way and the top tilts inward for secure, draft-free ventilation that keeps rain and intruders out even when you're away.
Head to head
- Ventilation: casement opens fully outward; tilt-and-turn offers both a full inward swing and a secure tilt-vent position.
- Security: both use multi-point locking; tilt-and-turn's secure tilt position is a real advantage for everyday airflow.
- Cleaning: tilt-and-turn swings inward so both sides wipe down from inside — ideal for upper storeys; casement outer glass is reachable through the full opening.
- Screens: because tilt-and-turn opens inward, screens mount outside; casement screens mount inside.
- Weather & wind: casement sashes open outward into the wind; tilt-and-turn's inward operation is unaffected by an outward gust.
- Egress: both can be configured to meet Ontario egress requirements for bedrooms and basements.
Which should you choose for your Ottawa home?
Choose tilt-and-turn if you want the most versatile everyday window — secure ventilation without fully opening, effortless cleaning on upper floors, and the classic European feel. It's our most-recommended style for Ottawa's climate because the tilt-vent lets you air out a room in winter without losing all your heat.
Choose casement if you prefer a familiar crank operation, want inside-mounted screens, or are combining operating windows with large fixed picture units for a wall of glass. Many homes use both — casements where a crank suits, tilt-and-turn where versatility matters most.
Because every Eurostar window is built to order, you don't have to pick just one. During a free in-home consultation we'll walk your home and recommend the right style opening by opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tilt-and-turn windows better than casement?
Neither is strictly better — both seal tightly and are highly efficient. Tilt-and-turn is more versatile (secure tilt-vent plus inward swing and easy cleaning); casement offers familiar crank operation and inside-mounted screens.
Do tilt-and-turn windows cost more than casement?
They can, depending on size, glass and hardware, because of their dual-function mechanism. The difference is usually modest; a free quote gives you exact figures for your project.
Which is better for upper floors?
Tilt-and-turn, generally — the inward swing lets you clean the exterior glass safely from inside, with no ladders.
Can both meet egress requirements?
Yes. Both casement and tilt-and-turn windows can be configured to meet Ontario egress requirements for bedrooms and basements.
Sources & further reading
This article is for general information and reflects typical Ontario conditions; final specifications and pricing depend on your specific home and project.
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