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Matthias Wandel Demonstrates the Superiority of the European Window Design
Tilt-and-turn vs. crouch-and-hoist
The merits of architectural styles from different regions can be endlessly debated. But there is no question that European tilt-and-turn windows are simply superior in design and function to American windows. During a stay in a hotel in Germany on a rainy day, I marveled at the ability to tilt the windows open at the top without any fear of letting water into the room. And swinging them open is far easier, ergonomically speaking, than the absurd crouch-and-hoist maneuver required to get the windows of my New York apartment open.
Here Matthias Wandel, on a trip to Germany, demonstrates the superiority of the design:
If you're interested in puzzling out how the mechanisms work, you can investigate the patent drawings here.
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Rain could you please post an example of the US openings for us in Europe in order to understand the differences?
Hi Kostas, sure thing. In the 'States, particularly older buildings like mine, double-hung sash windows like the one pictured here are common. (This photo here is actually from the UK, but you get the idea.)
Several years late...
Thank you for this post. I remember living in Austria and being fascisnated by the mechanism as a kid, this almost 40 years ago. Additionally, in most cases these windows have double glass for insulation.
Also,
1) European-style can be a cleaned incredibly easily, as the outside can be accessed from within the building.
2) The American sliding mechanism prevents windows from being as well insulated as the European ones which benefit from the window frame being pressed into a rubber band.
A big advantage of the American style is that you don't need any space (clearing) in front of the window to open it. European windows tend to be wide and opening them creates a barrier in the room sometimes.
It sure can be a disadvantage, though I have not found it to be very relevant in my life. It's nice not to obstruct windows anyway.