Open Letter: Martin Dickie, MD Of Residence Collection

This is a sponsored article by Residence Collection

Is this the year of the flush sash? Most systems companies have launched one, or added one or two profiles to create a flush sash look. In the main, they’re the same window with a new face rather than a new flush system, so there are compromises.

Some imply that planners will permit their windows in conservation areas. But it’s not fair to lead installers on.

For decades, PVC casements were excluded from conservation areas because the windows didn’t match the look, various dimensions and detailing of the windows they were intended to replace. If they didn’t match them they had to come out, which hit installers’ costs and reputations.

As the originator of the PVC casement flush sash, Residence went back to basics. We looked at what planners wanted, the dimensions on Article 4 drawings for conservation areas. Then we designed the window planners wanted, flush sash windows the way they’re meant to be.

In conservation areas, every project has to go to the local planning department for approval. But if the windows have been made to meet planners’ specifications, the process of planning application is not really a lottery. Installers can see Residence installers who’ve built a track record in conservation areas and listed buildings at www.residence9.co.uk.

Residence 9 (R9) has a 100mm frame depth that matches those drawings, filling the gap existing timber flush-sash windows leave. The added depth makes the window stronger, without steel reinforcement, allowing us to create nine equal chambers inside, so its energy performance is outstanding. The planners’ drawings show mechanical jointing too, so R9 is mechanically jointed which looks perfect. Hundred millimetre joints are a lot stronger so they also perform and last a lot longer.

R9 has caught the eye of homeowners, installers and developers outside conservation areas. That’s why we designed Residence 7 (R7) and Residence² (R²).

R7 looks the same as R9 from the outside, but it’s flush inside and 75mm front to back. It looks completely different, a timber-alternative that also gives aluminium a run for its money.

But R² is the real aluminium-alternative, with a contemporary look for modern homes. It’s flush on the outside with a square edge inside, and is 100mm front to back. So it has the strength of aluminium, comfortably making big windows and tall doors.

Not all flush sashes are the same, and the point is, it’s not just about a simple flush sash look. R9 is a timber-alternative that’s made for conservation areas, listed buildings and period homes. R² is an aluminium-alternative that’s ideal for contemporary properties with big windows and tall doors. R7 is for homeowners and private developers who want style and substance in traditional properties outside of conservation areas.

Sincerely

Martin Dickie

Managing Director, Residence Collection