European Windows
In the global market, European systems are highly reputable. You are probably wondering what makes these systems so particularly beloved – after reading the following post, you will most likely understand their phenomenon.
After reading the article, you will know:
- What European windows are commonly called and why they open in two ways
- Whether European windows are better than American ones and what is their cost
- If you can buy European windows in the US
What are the European windows called?
European windows are globally understood as tilt and turn windows. Unlike windows popular in Anglo-Saxon countries, for example, casements that open only outward or sash that open upward and downward, European systems have two basic variants: they open inward or tilt outward. Europe is also famous for its technically advanced sliding terrace windows.
You may be wondering if European nailing fin windows exist? Yes, they do, but they are not known in Europe, they are produced for the US window market.
Why do European windows open two ways?
The first tilt-and-turn fittings for windows were designed in Germany in the 1950s. Tilt-and-turn windows then began to replace common designs, that is two windows with a single pane mounted one in front of the other and opened separately, which was quite problematic. Tilt-and-turn systems had an advantage because it was a single window that was easy to open, its double glazing effectively protected the space against the cold, and tilt additionally allowed the room to be quickly ventilated.
Learn more about European tilt and turn windows with a complete guide >>
Are European windows better than American ones?
In our opinion – usually yes. The only caveat is that not all European products meet the standards of the specific American state, nevertheless, it is still worth considering European windows that guarantee:
- durability and resistance to weather conditions or scratches for many years
- a wide range of solutions (e.g., tilt-and-turn, bi-fold, fixed windows)
- easier and more efficient ventilation
- more favorable thermal parameters
- greater soundproofing, waterproofing, and security
- the possibility of making a large structure or personalization, e.g. hiding the wing
- fitting aesthetically to many architectural styles
- easier maintenance and cleaning
- opening effortlessly and without risk
When thinking about European style windows you should have in mind that in general the climate in Europe is cooler. That`s why even most basic PVC windows have good thermal parameters and aluminum windows are thermally broken – they are made from extruded aluminum and have a special thermal insulation. You can read more about aluminum windows from Europe here.
EU vs US Window Price Comparison
Our simple, easy-to-read illustrated guide will help you quickly understand the prices of windows imported from Europe, as well as windows available from the most popular American manufacturers.
Download PDFEuropean windows cost
Based on the cost of Polish windows, which are distinguished in the European market by their low price and high quality, European windows are up to 40% cheaper than American systems. What does the price comparison look like in practice? For example, let’s choose a sliding window for a patio, in Poland you will pay $949 for a 60 × 80-foot structure, while in the States the average cost of such a window is more than $2000!
American vs European windows – what is the difference?
If you’d like to delve more deeply into the differences between American and European windows, along with our customers’ opinions on these systems, read our analysis.
EU vs USCan you get European windows in the US?
Buying European systems in the US is possible, but generally unprofitable. Windows are often imported directly from Europe, and their price increases, because of the costs of i.a. related to transportation and storage in the USA. In the States you will also find profiles that are supposed to imitate the “European style”, but they usually do not reflect the quality of systems produced in the old continent – when choosing such windows, you will simply overpay.
