North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) is a vocational FE and HE college in Epsom, Surrey.

Nescot had funds to replace the original timber and aluminium windows in one of its buildings which had been built in the 1980s. Upgrading the windows would enhance thermal efficiency and therefore reduce overheads, as well as improving the visual appearance of the building.

The college appointed Chawton Hill Associates Ltd to manage the refurbishment project. The contract for the fabrication and installation of the windows was awarded to Approved Commercial Partner, Capital Windows of Uxbridge due to the company’s high-level commercial credentials which aligned with Chawton Hill’s expectations.

Stellar Aluminium makes the grade

The project had a demanding specification, including having to meet the requirements of the Department for Education’s Standards for School Premises.

Stellar Aluminium Flush Casement Windows from Epwin Window Systems were specified for the project because they were able to meet or exceed all the specification requirements.

The 113 Stellar windows were manufactured to achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m2K using a standard 6.4mm clear laminated outer pane, 16mm or 12mm black spacer with argon and 6.4mm soft coat low-e laminated inner pane. Solar glass was used in the windows for the building’s south elevation to prevent solar gain and glare.

To complement the building’s aesthetics, the project’s windows were powder coated in Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016 matt) on both sides. Matching fascias and soffits were also specified for a high-quality visual appearance.

Peter Adams, General Manager at Capital Windows, said: “Stellar has cross-sector appeal because of its combination of exceptional aesthetics and outstanding thermal efficiency. It was the perfect system solution for this project.”

Installation

The installation of the windows needed to take place during term time, which meant careful planning was required to minimise disruption to students’ learning. The work was carefully sequenced week-by-week, with stringent health and safety protocols in place to ensure students, staff and contractors were kept safe at all times.

Peter said: “We have over 40 years’ experience in commercial project installations, so we were happy to work closely with everyone involved to ensure everything ran smoothly and safely.”

Result

Now that the work is complete, Nescot’s building is more thermally efficient and more visually attractive, helping to enhance the learning experience of students. Miles Cassidy, Surveyor at Chawton Hill commented: “All stakeholders have been pleased with the outcome. The project has transformed a dated 1980s building and given it a fresh modern feel that is more in keeping with the rest of the campus.”