Windows
French Doors
Patio Doors
Front Doors
Roller Shutters
Window Sills
Windows
French Doors
Patio Doors
Front Doors
Roller Shutters
Window Sills
Windows
French Doors
Patio Doors
Front Doors
Roller Shutters
Window Sills
Parallel tilt-and-slide doors are a particularly versatile option for garden and balcony access. Thanks to a flexible mechanism, they combine the sliding function of sash doors with the tilting function of standard windows, offering a comparatively wide range of opening options. Ventilation becomes especially simple and convenient with these models, as the parallel pull-out sashes make everyday use effortless. This versatility has made them increasingly popular – whether chosen as a classic wood design, an affordable uPVC version, or a modern aluminium model.
The functionality and opening types of typical parallel tilt-and-slide doors can be briefly summarised as follows: starting from the closed position, the sash is first tilted by turning the door handle, and with a further turn it detaches from the lower frame. Once positioned parallel to the frame, the sash can then slide horizontally to either open or close the doorway as desired. Parallel tilt-and-slide doors have four primary positions:
Each of these positions offers its own specific advantages, making this system one of the most versatile forms of sliding doors available today.
Closed doors naturally provide protection against break-ins and, with the right glazing, effectively insulate heat. What may be unexpected, however, is that parallel tilt-and-slide doors offer all these advantages without any compromises despite their complex mechanics. Thanks to sophisticated fittings, the relatively heavy sliding sashes sit secure and stable within their frames.
The tilt opening function of these balcony doors naturally takes its inspiration from the classic tilt-and-turn window. In the tilted position, it allows for effective air exchange between indoors and outdoors. While at the same time providing noticeable resistance to potential break-in attempts thanks to particularly robust fittings and scissor mechanism.
If ventilation through the tilted position is insufficient in the height of summer, but fully opening the door lets in too much draught, the sash can instead be set parallel to the frame thanks to the variable opening options. This creates an all-round ventilation gap that ensures fresh air circulation while protecting the doorway from strong gusts.
When fully open, parallel tilt-and-slide doors – like other sliding doors – impress with their minimal space requirements. Since the sash does not swing either inwards or outwards, no extra clearance is needed, making these models an excellent choice even in tighter architectural situations.
Parallel tilt-and-slide doors can be equipped with additional security features and are in no way inferior to other opening types when it comes to break-in protection. However, if you plan to leave the house for an extended period, it is always advisable to keep the tilted door fully closed.
When deciding on the basic material of your new tilt-and-slide door – whether wood, aluminium, or uPVC – you should also consider the possible opening types of your new door. Parallel tilt-and-slide doors stand out with a well-balanced combination of different sash positions, offering versatile usage options that no other mechanism can provide.
