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How to Cover Your Tilt Turn Windows

The words “tilt” and “turn” relate to pinball machines and winding roads, but when put together, they’re a window treatment style. We often see this cool European design in Gresham and Portland, OR homes. And at Cindy’s Window Fashions, our design experts know exactly which Hunter Douglas window shades for tilt and turn windows work best.

Tilt and turn window in a home near Gresham, OR

The Basics of Tilt-Turn Windows

These windows work two ways: The whole frame, with the glass, turns inward like a door. It can also close and tilt from the top for ventilation. Its dual-action capability is nothing short of amazing, but the design creates specific challenges for window coverings.

Unlike conventional windows, these fixtures need clearance for tilting and turning. Standard blinds or shades would obstruct movement or damage the covering when opened. The big challenge here is finding a solution that works with two operating directions without compromising functionality.

Oh, and it has to look good, too.

Hunter Douglas Shades for Tilt and Turn Windows

We recommend this option for tilt-turn windows:

Duette® Cellular Shades

These energy-efficient shades offer an impressive selection of materials, fabrics, and sizes—they also accommodate specialty-shaped windows. They’re compatible with the Hunter Douglas TrackGlide system, which keeps shades in place. The track is installed along the sides of the windows, and then the shades easily move up and down.

It’s a clever, discreet design that makes tilt-turn windows easy to use. The track is close to the glass, and there are no drilling holes. You can also add the LiteRise® system, which works when you push or pull on the window treatment with your hand.

Design Considerations for Tilt-Turn Window Coverings

Now that you know there’s a window treatment solution for your tilt-turn windows, you can focus on the fun part. Duette® Cellular Shades offers 150+ fabric/color choices, and we can help you narrow down the selections. We often recommend lighter fabrics because they minimize visual weight around architectural windows.

Another designer trick is matching the shades to trim instead of wall colors; it creates a cohesive look. Remember, your tilt-and-turn window treatments should complement, rather than compete, with these stunning windows.

Still need guidance? These answers to common questions will help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I install blinds inside the frame of tilt-turn windows?

A. We don’t recommend these treatments for tilt-turn windows because they affect the window's operation. Modern honeycomb shades are the best option.

Q. Do I need special hardware for tilt-turn window treatments?

A. Yes, you need specialized mounting brackets for proper clearance and operation. No worries; our installation team handles those details.

Q. Can motorized shades work with tilt-turn windows?

A. PowerView® motorization works well on these windows and doesn’t hamper window function. You operate this system with a remote control, app, or voice commands; we’re happy to demonstrate.

Come See Our Shades for Tilt and Turn Windows

Cindy's Window Fashions is locally owned and operated, and our team can’t wait to show you how Duette® Cellular Shades work with the TrackGlide system. Contact us for service in Gresham, Portland, Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, Sandy, Oregon City, Milwaukie, Corbett, Hood River, Cascade Locks, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, West Linn, Fairfield, Troutdale, OR, and Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, WA. We can help you have peace and comfort in your home.