Better Living with Better Windows at Saunders Court

rom Timber to Polymer 

It was with this in mind that BHA engaged MSi Scotland (MSi), one of the country’s leading providers of uPVC windows for commercial and domestic properties. Highly experienced in retrofit programmes across Renfrewshire Council’s social housing portfolio, the company had a long-standing relationship with polymer solutions manufacturer REHAU through the successful completion of these previous projects. With that in mind, MSi recommended REHAU’s TOTAL70 profile for triple-glazed windows, meeting the housing association’s need for high-performing frames. 

Yet for BHA, opting for the TOTAL70 marked a significant shift from the association’s policy of solely selecting timber frames. Though polymer frames had not previously been considered on sustainability grounds, advances in uPVC recycling infrastructure helped assuage any environmental concerns decisionmakers at the association may have had.  

Prioritising Frame Performance 

BHA therefore stood to benefit from uPVC’s leading practicality and performance credentials, while enjoying peace-of-mind that all components provided were also designed with sustainability in mind. In TOTAL70’s case, the system’s co-extruded profile is made up of at least 75% post-consumer waste while boasting severe weather performance credentials and leading technical, thermal and noise reduction efficiency. This includes compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations – governing energy efficiency – with the frame also enjoying an A+ Window Energy Rating and able to achieve a u-value as low as 0.8W/m²K. 

Alongside updating timber frames with polymer alternatives, MSi Scotland would also replace existing aluminium infills with glazed panels backed up with insulation. Doing so would further improve the thermal efficiency of each property at Saunders Court while creating cleaner, more contemporary building sightlines. 

Decisiveness Reduces Disruption 

With all components selected, installation began in early November 2024 and concluded by mid-February 2025, carried out over three months while homes were occupied. MSi’s team worked closely with BHA’s directors and on-site team to minimise disruption, coordinating access and communicating with tenants throughout.  

Where structural concerns arose – for example, concealed steel in corner windows – the team’s close communication with BHA’s directors meant they could quickly adapt to ensure safety and compliance while remaining on-track with project timelines. The attention to detail on this project exceeded initial frame installation, with MSi using specialised airtightness foam and tape insulation to eliminate cold spots in cavities, further enhancing energy efficiency in each block. 

“Our previous experience with REHAU in social housing projects meant we were highly confident the components we would select would rise to the task,” said Joanne McPhail, Operations Manager at MSi Scotland. “TOTAL70 gave us the flexibility we needed to deal with structural challenges, while also ensuring we could achieve the thermal performance levels required on this project.” 

Nearing 100% Satisfaction 

Despite the work being carried out under difficult conditions, the project was completed on-time and to the standard required. Indeed, a testament to the quality of REHAU’s products, MSi’s workmanship and BHA’s commitment to quality and tenant satisfaction can be seen in post-installation inspections. Almost 100% of frames fitted passed this initial quality control check, with BHA praising REHAU for the reliability of its frames and minimal post-installation issues, and MSi proving responsive and easy to work with pre-, during, and post-project. 

The results have been transformative for those living at Saunders Court too. Tenants reported that their flats are easier to heat, retain warmth for longer, and feel noticeably quieter thanks to improved acoustic performance – even for homes situated close to a main road.  

“The windows we’ve installed have made a huge difference,” said Richard. “Not only do they look much better than the old frames, but they’re performing well too. Tenants are saying that their homes are warmer, their energy bills are lower, and outside noise and weather is less of a concern. This project was about two things – tackling the thermal performance of individual apartments, and improving tenant comfort. Considering these criteria, the results speak for themselves.” 

The success of the works at Saunders Court has led to further projects for MSi and REHAU upgrading the association’s existing social housing stock. At nearby Centenary Court, BHA has engaged both companies for a project to replace larger windows using TOTAL70 frames. Although different in scope, this project shares the social housing provider’s aim of providing tenants with more comfortable, affordable homes, as well as its confidence in MSi and REHAU to help BHA achieve its aims. 

“The success of Saunders Court was built on strong partnerships,” said Joanne.  “REHAU provided technical support throughout, advising on specification and ensuring compliance with performance standards, which we were able to put into practice while navigating challenges around completing fit-outs in occupied apartment blocks. It’s been heartening to hear such positive feedback from the tenants at Saunders Court, and that Barrhead Housing is looking to use both ours and REHAU’s expertise on new projects.” 

“Saunders Court is a great example of how informed frame specification can transform homes,” concluded Samsara McDonald, Commercial Sales Manager for Scotland at REHAU. “Barrhead Housing was looking for a sustainable window solution that would lower tenant energy bills, and TOTAL70, as a proven system, was the right choice. 

“Our collaboration with MSi has been rewarding on a number of levels, not least because it has helped improve the lives of those living at Saunders Court. This is something we’re proud of, and we look forward to working with Barrhead Housing on future projects that can deliver a similar positive impact.” 

Click the link to find out more about REHAU’s TOTAL70 windows solution. 

Find out more about MSi Scotland here.