ECOSlide Helps Futureproof Historic Epsom College

For almost 170 years, Epsom College has stood as a testament to tradition and academic excellence.

Founded as a school for the children of doctors who had been orphaned or were living in poverty, it was opened by Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert and her son, the future King Edward VII, in June 1855.

In the decades since, its grand buildings, embodying the Gothic Revival architectural style, have housed and educated tens of thousands of pupils.

By the 2020s, Epsom College's timber sash windows were beginning to show their age. Drafty and inefficient, they were no longer effectively holding in heat, leading to discomfort for students and staff and increased energy bills for the College.

Additionally, the aging timber frames required regular maintenance to keep them weatherproof and looking their best. This presented a unique challenge: how to preserve the College's historic character while delivering 21st century energy efficiency. Fortunately, Victorian Sliders' ECOSlide sash windows offered the perfect answer.

Marrying modernity and heritage

ECOSlide PVCu sash windows are meticulously designed to replicate the aesthetic appeal of traditional timber sashes.

From the elegant run-through sash horns to Georgian or astragal bars, they offer configuration options that let them seamlessly blend with the existing architecture.

However, unlike timber, ECOSlide’s modern PVCu construction offers superior weather resistance, durability, and low maintenance. This not only reduces the long-term costs associated with window replacement but also ensures the windows will continue to look their best for decades to come.

Beyond aesthetics: The functional benefits of ECOSlide

The installation of ECOSlide sash windows involved:

  • Ensuring the new windows matched the existing architectural style.
  • Utilising modern PVCu construction to enhance durability and reduce maintenance.
  • Incorporating features like spring balances for smooth operation, toughened glass for safety, and innovative tilt functionality for easy cleaning.

The transition to 280 ECOSlide sash windows brought numerous benefits to Epsom College:

  • Aesthetic and Functional Appeal: The windows maintained the historical look of the buildings while improving functionality. Spring balances ensured smooth and effortless sliding, and the toughened glass and travel restrictors enhanced safety.
  • Maintenance and Durability: Unlike timber, ECOSlide windows require minimal upkeep and offer superior resistance to weathering. This has reduced the long-term costs associated with window replacement and maintenance.
  • Energy Efficiency: The superior thermal insulation of ECOSlide windows has significantly reduced heating costs, making classrooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This not only improved comfort for students and staff but also contributed to the College's environmental sustainability efforts.

Futureproofing Epsom College

By choosing ECOSlide sash windows, Epsom College has successfully preserved its architectural heritage while embracing modern advancements in energy efficiency. The College has become more environmentally friendly and financially responsible, with reduced heating costs and lower maintenance needs.

At Victorian Sliders, we are committed to providing high-quality, sustainable solutions for historic buildings, ensuring their character endures for years to come.

Contact us today to learn more about how ECOSlide sash windows can transform historic spaces.