How did replacement double-glazed windows solve draughts and poor window installation?

Fife

Replacing poorly insulated windows with bespoke Lorimer double-glazed casement windows eliminated draughts, reduced outside noise and restored the homeowners’ confidence in the quality and performance of their windows.

 

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Location
Dunfermline, Fife
Casement window icon
Product
Lorimer casement windows
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U-value: 1.4 W/m²K
Exceptional A-rated energy efficiency
10 year triple guarantee icon
10-year triple guarantee
for complete peace of mind

At a glance:

  • Location: Dunfermline, Fife
  • Homeowners: Mr and Mrs Shaw
  • Product: Lorimer casement windows
  • U-value: 1.4 W/m²K
  • Security: PAS 24 Enhanced Security specification, including multi-point locking systems.
  • Challenge: Poorly insulated windows causing draughts, failing seals and void guarantees after the original installer ceased trading.
  • Solution: Made-to-measure Lorimer double glazed casement windows, professionally installed by CR Smith.
  • Results: Draughts eliminated throughout the home, improved energy efficiency, reduced external noise, long-term peace of mind with comprehensive guarantees, and high-quality installation built to last.

Why did the Shaws decide to replace their replacement windows?

Most homeowners expect replacement windows to last for decades, so when Mr and Mrs Shaw began experiencing problems just seven years after their installation, they knew something wasn’t quite right.

The previous windows had been installed by another company, and the quality of the workmanship had quickly deteriorated. Draughts became increasingly noticeable, and the seals around the windows began to fail.

In some areas, the sealant had bubbled around the sills and even pulled away from the walls, leaving visible gaps around the frames.

To make matters worse, the original installer had since ceased trading, leaving the homeowners without the guarantees to rely on.

Why did the Shaws return to CR Smith?

Although their most recent experiences with replacement windows had been disappointing, the couple had used CR Smith many years earlier in a previous home.

In 1986, CR Smith had installed windows in their old property, and when moving out decades later, those windows were still performing well.

That experience left a lasting impression.

Rather than comparing quotations from multiple companies, the Shaws knew exactly who they wanted to rectify the work.

Reflecting on their decision, they said:

“We’ve learned our lesson. You only get what you pay for.”

For them, investing in quality products and expert installation was far more important than choosing the lowest price.

How were the new windows designed to suit the property?

The couple were happy with their home’s original appearance, so they chose to keep the same window colour.

This ensured the new Lorimer casement windows complemented the property’s existing style while delivering a significant improvement in performance.

Behind the familiar appearance, however, lies modern double glazing manufactured specifically for Scottish homes, combining contemporary engineering with timeless design.

How did the new double-glazed windows improve energy efficiency?

One of the biggest improvements following the installation was the complete elimination of draughts.

Lorimer windows are made to measure and manufactured in Scotland, ensuring a precise fit that helps prevent heat loss and improve thermal performance throughout the home.

The difference was immediate. The homeowners found their property retained heat far more effectively than before.

In fact, the improvement was so noticeable that they turned the central heating down after the installation.

The result is a warmer, more comfortable home that’s also more energy efficient year-round.

How did the new windows reduce outside noise?

In addition to improving warmth, the couple found that the new casement windows made a significant difference to noise levels inside their property.

The rear of the home overlooks a busy road, and Mr and Mrs Shaw noted how the modern Lorimer double glazing has dramatically reduced the volume of external noise entering the house.

The improved acoustic performance has created a noticeably quieter and more peaceful living environment, allowing the family to enjoy their home without disruption from passing traffic.

Why does quality installation matter?

A high-quality window is only as good as its installation.

At CR Smith, every Lorimer window is installed by employed joiners trained to the company’s unique Lorimer Fit Standard, ensuring every product performs exactly as intended.

Combined with comprehensive 10-year guarantees across the product and installation, homeowners can enjoy complete confidence that their investment is built to last.

For the Shaws, this reassurance was every bit as important as the windows themselves after their previous experience.

What impact did the transformation have on the home?

The replacement windows have transformed both the confidence and comfort the homeowners have in their property.

The draughts have disappeared, outside noise has been dramatically reduced, and the home now feels warmer and more comfortable year round.

Most importantly, the Shaws know they have invested in products designed to stand the test of time.

Their experience demonstrates the value of choosing quality products, expert installation and a company with a long-standing reputation for craftsmanship.

This project highlights how replacing poorly insulated windows with high-quality double-glazed windows can improve energy efficiency, eliminate draughts and provide lasting peace of mind.

What did the Shaws think of their new windows?

Having experienced both ends of the market, Mr and Mrs Shaw are convinced that investing in quality was the right decision.

The new Lorimer casement windows have delivered exactly what they hoped for: a warmer, quieter home and the reassurance that comes with choosing a company they trust.

 

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Our certifications

  • BFRC

    Energy performance A rated

  • Secured by Design

    Police preferred specification

  • ISO 14001

    Environmental management

  • ISO 9001

    Quality management

  • BS EN 1279 – 2&3

    Insulating glass units

  • BS 7412

    Independently certified

  • BS 6375 – 1

    Window & door performance

  • PAS 24

    Security standard

  • UKCA

    UK Conformity Assessed

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