Replacement windows play a pivotal role in improving the performance, comfort and sustainability of learning environments. Research consistently highlights the strong link between the quality of the built environment, particularly factors such as thermal comfort, ventilation and daylight, and educational outcomes. Classrooms that maintain optimal temperature, good air quality and effective natural lighting are proven to support higher student attainment and improved teacher wellbeing and retention.

However, many UK classrooms are falling short. The National Audit Office reports that 38% of school buildings have exceeded their estimate initial design life, yet many of these could remain serviceable for years to come with appropriate refurbishment and maintenance.

This situation is well recognised within the education sector. Between 2020–21 and 2022– 2023, almost two-thirds of the 11,700 applications to the Government’s Condition Improvement Fund were for essential fabric replacement projects, including windows. Despite this, a significant number of eligible schools are still missing out. Many that would be eligible for funding haven’t applied because they lack the capacity to do so and there’s a clear need for technical understanding in order to make a successful application. The Department for Education considers a range of factors when assessing applications to the Condition Improvement Fund, including the appropriateness of the solution presented and whether estimated costs are reasonable.

It all points to the fact that schools need to have done their homework when it comes to specifying building fabric upgrades and be able to provide clear evidence that the work will deliver a clear return on investment. In all instances, partnering with the right window systems provider can make a big difference.

Here at Epwin Window Systems, we provide the high-performance window solutions that help to create optimum learning environments. We also provide the technical expertise needed to ensure projects deliver on expectations.

Choosing the right windows
We offer the market’s widest choice of Part L compliant, window and door systems in both PVC-U and aluminium. We also offer curtain walling to upgrade a building’s aesthetics, sustainability and performance. The guarantee of compliance with Part L of Building Regulations means schools can be confident that when they specify products from Epwin Window Systems they will meet minimum legal requirements for thermal efficiency as standard – and in many cases will far exceed them.

In addition, every product undergoes rigorous testing to achieve recognised accreditations including PAS 24:2022 and Secured by Design, ensuring high-quality security and long-term durability.

The product range has been developed to meet the diverse design requirements of education projects. Tilt and turn window systems, for example, are particularly well suited to high or hard-to-access locations. Their intelligent design provides slim sightlines and a high glass-to-frame ratio, maximising daylight while allowing safe and simple internal cleaning. The flush tilt and turn window offers a streamlined, contemporary appearance, with the sash sitting neatly inside the frame to create an externally flush finish that aligns with modern architectural trends. Available in an extensive palette of colour options and supported by the market’s largest ancillary range, these window systems can accommodate any design brief with ease.

Our Stellar Aluminium flush casement window system has an immaculate, streamlined flush aesthetic to the external face with a stepped appearance internally. Its slim sightlines allow up to 12% more glass area than comparable products, ensuring that natural light levels are maximised and interiors feel bright and welcoming, key qualities in the creation of healthy, inspiring learning spaces.

As part of the wider Group, Epwin Window Systems also provides access to complementary building products such as soffits, guttering and decking. This integrated supply chain enables smoother procurement, simplifies supplier management and supports the delivery of consistent, high-quality finishes across education estates.

But not only does Epwin Window Systems provide a choice of systems and products, but we also provide the expertise needed to specify the solutions that are right for each project.

Choosing the right supplier partner
Epwin Window Systems has been fulfilling commercial and public sector contracts for more than 50 years. It means we’ve developed the offer that helps our partners to secure the best possible results.

It starts with our specification support. Every project has a dedicated specification manager. They’re on hand to provide expert advice and recommendations. They’re also able to supply all the technical expertise that’s needed to develop the specification – Window Energy Ratings; structural, wind loading and load bearing calculations; section detailed section drawings and site surveys to confirm design suitability detail, as well as offer forward planning and budgeting advice. Their involvement helps ensure that each project achieves full compliance with regulations and delivers lasting value for the client.

To maintain quality throughout the delivery process, projects are manufactured and installed by members of our Approved Commercial Partner network. These accredited professionals work to exacting standards and receive continuous support from Epwin Window Systems technical teams, including site visits to verify adherence to the specification.

Ultimately, the specification of high-performance windows is about far more than visual improvement, it is a key factor in creating the right conditions for learning. Through its combination of advanced product technology, technical expertise and proven industry experience, Epwin Window Systems helps schools, colleges and their design teams to deliver sustainable, compliant and future-ready buildings that support educational excellence and wellbeing.

For more information on specifying high-performance window and door systems for
education and commercial environments, visit https://epwinwindowsystems.co.uk/commercial/