Window Medic Has the Remedy for Replacing Timber Windows

When a homeowner wanted to replace all 28 windows in their large, characterful house with polymer frames, this presented a challenge for The Window Medic, a prominent installer. Specifically, while the occupant wanted the efficiency benefits of PVCu, they also wished to maintain the elegant look and style of the previous timber windows. With this in mind, The Window Medic turned to REHAU to help make this dream a reality.

Deep in the North Northamptonshire countryside lies the idyllic village of Warmington, in which a large, detached, stone-faced house stands. Designed to fit in with the surrounding village’s architecture, the distinctive property was previously fitted with timber window frames, yet rot had set in and fitting replacement windows was long overdue.

Despite the timber window frames being treated numerous times by the homeowner, the wood had begun to degrade to a point where you could almost see daylight through the frame’s edge. As a result, the old windows were draughty, inefficient and insecure compared to modern window designs.

The Best of Both Worlds

The main reason the homeowner had persevered for so long with the original windows was that he was unable to find alternatives that would effectively combine an authentic timber look with all the modern benefits of PVCu. Yet after seeing the REHAU frames The Window Medic (WM) had fitted for his daughter’s property, he was impressed by the craftsmanship and the quality of the windows, and the service she had received.

 “While the homeowner was aware of polymer frames as a potential option, he was reluctant to go ahead as he’d previously associated PVCu windows with big white frames that wouldn’t suit the look of his property,” explains Brendan Pearl, Director at The Window Medic. “But after seeing the frames we fitted for his daughter, which were sympathetic to her property’s aesthetic, he could see that this wouldn’t be a concern anymore. In fact, he was very impressed with the windows we’d provided, saying he couldn’t tell the difference from look or touch.”

High Performance Windows

With the brief in mind, WM specified REHAU Rio flush sash frames with mechanical joints in a pearl grey finish and timber-effect grains. Featuring a simple, elegant design that uses REHAU’s existing TOTAL70 system profiles, these flush fit frames boast severe weather performance credentials along with accreditation to the PAS24 security standard.

Similarly, the leading performance levels provided by the Rio was a key factor behind WM’s choice.  With a thermal efficiency rating of 1.3W/m²K, the frames mitigation of heat losses in the property would have a strong effect on energy bills post-installation. Alongside this, the fact that Rio windows can be fitted with mechanical joints was a standout feature, as triangular weld corners commonly used with PVCu frames would not fit the house’s distinct aesthetic.

Consequently, Rio met two key criteria on this project – firstly, the flush sash design was ideal for the customer’s operational requirements and look of the house. Secondly, the foil and jointing met the homeowner’s challenging brief of high-performance polymer with that would offer a convincing wood replica.

Additional Challenges

A challenge was posed by the property’s stone face, which presented logistical issues for the three fitters on-site, as Brendan explains. “Installing frames into stone is a more intricate procedure than with brickwork or render,” he said. “If not carried out properly, there can be unevenness at the windows’ edges, which would unacceptably impact performance. However, the Rio’s design meant that we did not encounter issues here, with the flush fit windows slotting in seamlessly.”

Work began in September 2022, with all windows fitted within the 1-week timeframe quoted, and to the agreed budget. This included 18 regular frames and two bay windows, with antique bronze teardrop handles to complete the look. With all frames fitted and finished to a high standard, the property is already attracting admiring looks from passers-by.

“The homeowner was extremely satisfied that we were able to carry out these works within the 1-week timescale we quoted for, which was no small undertaking on a project of this scale,” Brendan concluded. “The quality of the windows really stood out here – in fact, he said that his neighbours were complimenting him on how good his new timber frames looked.

“We’re thrilled with this feedback – we set out to show how polymer could offer the same kerb appeal as wood while providing excellent performance, and from his neighbours’ reaction, it’s very much mission accomplished. Of course, this wouldn’t have been possible without REHAU’s prompt supply of high-quality polymer and the Rio design. We’re very thankful to the REHAU team and look forward to working with the company again.”

To find out more about REHAU Rio flush fit windows and the different looks and finishes available, click here.