Sash and Case Windows Edinburgh Lothian » Frequently asked questions

New Product Development – Simplex Hinge

webmaster — Sun, 30 May 2010 12:40:54 +0000

Prototype Simplex Hinge

We’ve always used the best quality ironmongery available but, with the Scottish market being relatively small, and the emphasis now being on cheap mass produced ironmongery, certain items are simply no longer available.

One area of concern for us has been the thickness of the brass used on the hinges. Really thick leaf hinges are no longer to be sourced, so we instructed a manufacturer to make up a hinge with a thicker leaf and hardened washers based on the traditional design and dimensions.

This is important for some of the larger windows in the older properties, and some of the larger double glazed sash and case windows.

We now have this prototype which we are very happy with, and we hope to proceed with the manufacture in the next 6 – 8 weeks.

Upgrading sash windows to double glazing

webmaster — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:09:26 +0000

Double glazed sash and case edinburgh

If you are considering fitting double glazed sash and case windows into your property, it is not always necessary to replace the complete window.

If you already have sash and case windows and your existing casement is in good condition, we can manufacture new sashes to fit exactly into the existing box.

This means there is no need to remove panelling and shuttering and offers considerable savings over complete replacement. The case is carefully renovated, the external pointing is renewed, and the windows are fully draught proofed.

Click on the Grange Terrace case study for complete information on the process including before and after gallery.

Q. What is the Simplex Easy Clean System?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:45:12 +0000

The easy clean system makes maintenance simple.

The Easy Clean System, sometimes refered to as the simplex system, is a very simple way of allowing access to the outside of your sash windows.

It is used on upper levels of a property to allow for window cleaning and general maintenance. It is not generally used on ground floors where the window can be accessed from the outside.

It consists of 4 different fittings, a cord clutch, a cord plug, a sash fastener and the slotted hinges.

The fittings allow you to open the bottom sash like a door, making maintenance and cleaning straightforward.

The easy clean system is the only system for traditional sash windows. It is available in a number of finishes, steel, brass, chrome and satin, to ensure your sash windows are looking their best.

Simplex Easy Clean System

Q. Will my sash windows last for years to come, or should I consider full replacement?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:41:16 +0000

A. The vast majority of sash windows in Edinburgh can be fully refurbished and will outlast a modern replacement. Georgian and Victorian sash windows have been manufactured from slow grown pine which is a far stronger, more durable timber. When your sash windows are fully refurbished they will last another 100 years – as long as the exterior paintwork is maintained.

Q. Can I install double glazed sash windows in my property?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:34:00 +0000

A. For grade A listed buildings the answer will generally be no, but for most other properties it is not a problem. A phone call to the local planning authority will clarify this.

The Scotsman (see below) recently reported that the Edinburgh City Council were reviewing the ban on Double Glazing in certain Conservation Areas.

City U-turn over double glazing ban in the frame, Published Date: 03 September 2008 and last retrieved 18 Feb 2010.

Q. When cracked glass is replaced will the sash window still be weighted correctly?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:26:47 +0000

A. No, modern glass is 4 mm thick and the original was only 2mm. The windows will need to have additional weights added to ensure a perfect balance.

Q. What other works are carried out when my sash windows are overhauled?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:24:14 +0000

A. Cills are replaced when necessary, exterior pointing upgraded, ironmongery replaced, rotten timbers replaced and cracked panes are replaced.

Q. Is our system suitable for conservation areas and listed buildings in Edinburgh?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:07:18 +0000

A. Yes. To the eye your sash window looks exactly the same, because the brush seals are hidden behind the baton rods and parting beads. Overall this complies with current planning and listed building regulations.

Our sash window renovation techniques are based on Historic Scotland’s restoration guidelines.

Historic Scotland also have an excellent and informative guide for owners and occupiers on how to maintain your sash and case windows. Download their Information Guide on Sash and Case Window Maintenance.

Q. Does Draughtproofing Sash Windows Cut Down Heat Loss?

webmaster — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:00:32 +0000

A. Yes, modern materials are used to upgrade the traditional sash window, improving overall heat loss.

As part of the draught proofing process, baton rods and parting Beads are replaced with new timbers that have an integrated brush system. The midrail of the bottom sash also has a routered weatherseal fitted.

If you have working shutters and they are reasonably close fitting, they can also make a huge difference to heat loss.