21st century performance without compromising visual appeal
Although remaining entirely traditional in appearance, our system is amongst the most technically advanced available in the UK. Rollover the numbers on the cross section of our flush casement window to find out more.
1. multi-layer timber sections with opposing grains, balances warping and combats twisting
The use of multi-layer timber is long established in Britain for long span timber structures in demanding environments
such as swimming pools and bridges. In common use on the continent, but very rare in Britain, is the use for window
and door sections. This multi-layer structure is particularly effective in resisting warping and twisting as the
opposing grains even out natural moisture movement. And It is the twisting of timber during wet weather, more than the
swelling itself, which causes windows and doors to stick. Multi-layer timber sections are used as standard throughout
our range.
Advanced glass technology not only provides enhanced thermal performance but also much improved clarity of appearance, particularly compared to traditional hard coated low e glasses. High light transmittance (77%) maximises the entry of natural light into the home.
All products are glazed as standard with double-glazed units which incorporate an enhanced thermally insulating glass to provide an extremely low U-value. We further improve the efficiency of the unit by filling the cavity with argon gas and using low conductivity spacer bars to minimise edge losses. The result is a 1.1 W/m2K centre pane u-value. This means an 80% increase in energy savings compared to single glazing, and a 45% increase in energy savings compared to ordinary double glazing.
Glass is fitted from room side to prohibit would be intruders from gaining entry by removing the glass. Aesthetically this arrangement with its clean lines is far superior to an externally glazed system, where there is a projecting bottom bead which is pinned and filled.
In the event of glass breakage all our windows and doors can be re-glazed without damage to the surrounding window frame; no need even to re-paint!
Purpose-made grooves are provided internally and externally to receive the silicone necessary to protect against water ingress. Appropriate coloured or clear silicone is factory applied to guarantee a perfect, unobtrusive seal.
Low conductivity spacer bars further help to minimise heat loss and combat condensation levels on the inner pane.
In conventional timber sections, paint is prone to cracking at the point where the bead meets the window frame. By rebating the glazing bead over the sash we conceal the joint and guard against these unattractive lines.
Drainage and ventilation channels protect against the failure of double glazed units which occurs in conventional systems when glazing units are allowed to sit in water that has become trapped within the frame.
Factory painting prior to assembly best protects timber from moisture absorption and is essential for longevity. All our products receive a base coat of timber preservative followed by a further two coats of micro-porous paint. Broadly speaking one should expect our coatings to last from five to eight years without the need for re-treatment. Redecoration itself is a very simple task and on average a window should take about thirty minutes to redecorate.
