Hi rileysmom,

If you want tilt/turn impact windows then by all means get tilt/turn impact windows.

Off the top-of-my-head, I can think of about six or so North American companies that offer the tilt/turn option, but only two (Schuco being one) that have an impact rated tilt/turn. Doesn't mean other folks don't have one, it is just that I can only think of the two.

Tilt/turn (also known as dual action windows) are made tough. Partially because of the weight of the hardware involved and partially because it is simply a design feature of the window style. They are generally beefier (and heavier!) than a typical casement window and the ones that I am familiar with did exceedingly well on the impact/cycle test as well as structural and air/water infiltration testing.

As I recall (again off-the-top-of-my-head) the Schuco unit is rated a DP65 while the other manufacturer that I am thinking of has a rating of DP75 on those windows - so both are very structurally sound windows.

And as a disclaimer, tilt/turn happens to be my personal favorite window style. In fact, I specified (and installed) triple pane tilt/turn windows and patio door in my daughters new home. And I can't emphasize enough that these things are HEAVY!

Tilt/turns don't install exactly like other windows that many installers would be familiar with. Not that it is overly difficult, and someone like Guy exterior man (who also posts here), would have no trouble at all installing them perfectly (I EXTENSIVELY solicited his advice a good bit before I installed my daughter's windows), but installation is really important with these units - as it is for all windows in fact - but tilt/turns can be a little less "forgiving" of being even a tiny bit out of square or off level.

Anyway, I wouldn't hesitate in the slightest to go with tilt/turn impact rated windows.

Oberon thanks again. I was really stressed out about the windows becuase they are such a huge cost factor and a design factor when you are trying to maximize views but minimize electrical bills. Plus the air infiltration issue is major since I am planning central AC; the on-island window manufacturers provide single-glazed products and seem mostly concerned with DP. Since I already love Schuco, I shall simply declare that Schuco it is and hope that shipping costs don't triple the total. I will track down whatever Schuco rep deals with the US Virgin Islands. All my Schuco windows were custom made replacements, I wonder if they have some stock sizes that are less expensive....Regarding weight, it is all concrete construction down there so I know the walls can hold the windows. I will be sure to educate myself and my contractor about install issues.

you are quite welcome.

It was -18F here this morning, so I am thinking that the Virgin Islands sound really nice about now!

Hopefully, you can get the windows there without too much trouble.

Good luck!